Hay Castle

Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog

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Standing in considerable decrepitude in the town centre, Hay's battered castle is closed to the public but there are various interesting shops to explore in its grounds, including an honesty book stall (50p per book). This was one of the earliest Norman castles to be built in Wales. A grand manor house was grafted on in the 17th century, but this too is in a precarious state.

Richard Booth became king of this castle, buying the dilapidated remains in 1961. It's now owned by a trust who are intending to restore the complex and convert it into an arts centre.

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Nearby Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog attractions

1. Hay Butter Market

0.06 MILES

This open-sided market hall has stood here since 1833, although the dairy produce has now given way to bric-a-brac.

2. Town Clock

0.08 MILES

To call it a mini Big Ben is an exaggeration, but this dinky clock tower has been keeping Hay shoppers punctual since 1884.

3. Llanthony Priory

9.74 MILES

Halfway along the impossibly beautiful Vale of Ewyas lie the atmospheric ruins of this Augustinian priory, set among pasture and wooded hills by the River…

4. Dore Abbey

12.25 MILES

Located 13 miles southwest of Hereford in the Golden Valley village of Abbey Dore, Dore Abbey dates from the 12th century. The majority of the site has…

5. St Issui's Church

12.73 MILES

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6. Tretower Court & Castle

13.4 MILES

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7. Crug Hywel

13.5 MILES

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8. Brecon Cathedral

14.14 MILES

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