Why We Love Hay Festival
(and Why The Old Vicarage is the Perfect Base)
Our Personal Connection to Hay Festival
Hay Festival has been part of our lives for decades. Long before it became the globally famous gathering it is today, we were going every year. For us, it wasn’t just about the talks and the books (though there were plenty of those!) — it was part of family life.
My uncle and aunty lived next door to the main site and even rented out their field to the organisers. That meant all sorts of famous speakers and special guests would park right outside — and we thought it was the most exciting thing of the year!
Even now, we’ve got family stories tied up with the festival. A few years ago, my three-year-old nephew wriggled free from Granny while she was stuck in one of those giant deckchairs — cue ten minutes of mild panic before he was found safe and sound! It’s those little moments that remind us that Hay isn’t just a “festival,” it’s a community gathering with plenty of humour, quirks and memories.
What Makes Hay Festival Special
Each May and June, Hay-on-Wye transforms into a hive of ideas, creativity and conversation. Over ten days, the town welcomes writers, thinkers, artists and readers from across the globe. You’ll find:
World-class speakers: Nobel prize-winners, politicians, musicians and novelists.
Events for all ages: From children’s storytelling to lively debates.
Spontaneity: Some of our best experiences came from simply turning up, browsing the day’s programme, and grabbing tickets for what was still available.
Whether you plan meticulously or just see where the day takes you, Hay Festival has a way of surprising and inspiring you.
Why The Old Vicarage is the Perfect Base
One of the joys of Hay Festival is its mix of buzz and calm — thought-provoking talks and lively crowds by day, and the chance to unwind afterwards. Staying at The Old Vicarage gives you the best of both worlds.
We’re just 12 miles from Hay-on-Wye, close enough that you can dip into the excitement whenever you want, but far enough that you can retreat to space, comfort and peace when you need it.
After a full day of festival energy, you can:
Soak in the hot tub or sauna under the stars.
Stretch out in the garden while the kids play football or table tennis.
Share family meals around the big dining table, or enjoy a barbecue on the patio.
Mix it up with meals out in Hay’s restaurants and pubs, knowing you have a welcoming base to come home to.
Explore the outdoors nearby — from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging walks in the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons.
Because the festival often falls in half-term week, The Old Vicarage is ideal if you’re looking for family accommodation near Hay Festival. With six spacious bedrooms, four bathrooms and space for 12, it’s also perfect for groups of friends seeking luxury accommodation near Hay-on-Wye. There’s plenty of entertainment for children and adults alike, and everyone gets room to relax.
At the Old Vicarage, you don’t have to choose between festival buzz and time to recharge — you can have both.
Join Us for Hay Festival Week
For us, Hay Festival isn’t just an event — it’s part of our family history. Whether you’re coming for the talks, the atmosphere, or just the chance to soak up the creative energy, we’d love to welcome you to the Golden Valley as your luxury home-from-home near Hay Festival.
If you’re searching for large group accommodation near Hay-on-Wye, The Old Vicarage is the perfect choice. A place to gather, recharge and make your own festival memories
Availability:
2026
22nd - 29th May - SOLD
29th May - 1st June - £1980
2027
POA