The Old Black Lion Hay On Wye

Ever found yourself wandering through the charming streets of Hay-on-Wye, that little Welsh town that's basically the world's capital of second-hand books? Well, if you have, you've probably stumbled upon the Old Black Lion, a pub that's as cozy and full of character as the books that surround it.

So, what's the big deal about this place, you ask? Let's dive in!

First things first: the history

Picture this: it's the 16th century, and you're in a bustling market town. What do you need? A place to rest your weary head after a long day of trading, of course! That's where the Old Black Lion comes in. It's been serving thirsty travelers and locals alike since 1580, making it one of the oldest pubs in Wales. Can you believe it's been standing there, watching history unfold, for over 400 years?

Now, imagine if walls could talk, huh? The Old Black Lion would have some seriously fascinating tales to tell. But don't worry, we'll get to the ghost stories later. For now, let's explore what makes this place so darn special.

It's like stepping into a time machine

Walking into the Old Black Lion is like stepping into a time machine. The low ceilings, the wonky floors, the ancient wooden beams - it's all part of the charm. It's like you've just wandered into a medieval tavern, and you half expect to see Shakespeare himself nursing a pint in the corner.

But don't worry, it's not just a museum piece. The Old Black Lion is very much alive and kicking. It's a proper, working pub, with a roaring fire in the winter and a sunny beer garden in the summer. It's the kind of place where you can while away an afternoon, lose track of time, and emerge blinking into the sunlight hours later, wondering where the day went.

Food, glorious food

Now, you might be thinking, "All this sounds great, but what about the food?" Well, fear not, hungry travelers! The Old Black Lion serves up some seriously delicious grub. We're talking hearty, home-cooked meals that'll warm your cockles on a cold day. Think slow-cooked stews, giant Yorkshire puddings, and all the trimmings. It's the kind of food that'll make your taste buds dance the jig.

The Old Black Lion | Hay-on-Wye 2023 UPDATED DEALS £98, HD Photos & Reviews

And the best part? They're not just feeding your belly, they're feeding your brain too. The menu changes with the seasons, using locally sourced, fresh ingredients. It's like a little taste of Wales on a plate. Mmm-mmm, delicious!

Ghost stories and secret passages

Alright, alright, you've been patient enough. It's time for the ghost stories! The Old Black Lion is said to be haunted by a friendly spirit who likes to move things around. Now, I don't know about you, but I find that strangely comforting. I mean, if you're going to have a ghost in your pub, you might as well make it a helpful one, right?

But that's not all, folks. The Old Black Lion is also rumored to have a secret passage. Yep, you heard it here first. It's said to lead from the pub to the nearby church, but no one's quite sure where it is. The thought of stumbling upon a hidden tunnel while you're enjoying a pint is enough to send shivers down your spine, isn't it?

So, there you have it. The Old Black Lion - a pub that's as fascinating as it is friendly, as historic as it is hip, and as delicious as it is delightful. Next time you're in Hay-on-Wye, do yourself a favor and pop in. You never know, you might just meet a ghost or two. Cheers!