A trip to Hay-on-Wye isn’t complete without a stop at a cosy pub or a tasty bite in one of its welcoming eateries. Whether you’ve spent your day browsing bookshops, walking the River Wye, or stretching your legs along the Offa’s Dyke Path, there’s nothing better than a relaxed pint and a treat for your four-legged bestie. Thankfully, Hay is full of dog-friendly places to eat, drink and snooze. Here’s our guide to the best dog-friendly pubs in Hay-on-Wye.
Dog-Friendly Pubs Hay-on-Wye
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Best Pubs in Hay-on-Wye
What’s a trip to Hay without a proper pub stop? From pub gardens with a view to fireside corners in centuries-old inns, there’s a spot for every preference. Whether enjoying a lazy pint in the sun, a traditional Sunday roast or pub food, these pubs are all dog-approved. Don’t forget the treats!
Each pub has its own unique atmosphere; some are lively and bustling, while others are more relaxed and quiet, catering to different dog temperaments.
The Old Black Lion
One of Hay’s most atmospheric pubs, The Old Black Lion, is full of character, from its low beams to its crackling fires. It’s the kind of place where your dog gets more attention than you do – and rightly so. Expect proper cask ales, hearty food in the award-winning 2 AA Rosette restaurant, and a relaxed atmosphere. Food is served from 12-2pm and again from 6pm daily – ideal after a long walk in the Brecon Beacons.
Staying at The Old Black Lion means immersing yourself in centuries of history, with cosy rooms full of character and charm. The 10 quality en-suite bedrooms are situated in either the Main Building, the Coach House or the Cottage. However, it isn’t dog-friendly.
📍 26 Lion St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5AD
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The Kilverts Inn
Smack in the heart of town, Kilverts is a dog-friendly pub with a brilliant beer garden and plenty of space to stretch out (for both humans and hounds). There’s usually a bowl of water ready, and staff are quick to offer dog treats – a good bribe while you enjoy a pint and some people-watching. Perfect spot to park yourself after a long day of book-hunting.
The 12 en-suite rooms are all tastefully decorated to compliment the Edwardian building, each one uniquely designed to add modern comforts to the historic venue. It’s so cosy, it’ll feel like home. With free private parking, a complimentary breakfast and one dog is allowed per room for a small charge.
📍 Bull Ring, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5AG
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Three Tuns
Tucked away just off the main road, The Three Tuns is a traditional pub serving up friendly vibes and decent pub grub. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, which is exactly where you’ll want to be if you fancy a pint and a pie. Food is served from 12-3pm and 6pm onwards – ideal timing for dinner after a riverside ramble.
📍 Broad St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5DB
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Rose and Crown
A proper community pub with a 16th-century soul, the Rose and Crown is all about real ale, pool tables, and welcoming vibes. It’s perfect for a chilled evening with your dog by your side – maybe even while catching some live music or cheering on your team on one of their five big screens.
📍 14 Broad St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5DB
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The Blue Boar
A popular choice with locals and visitors alike, The Blue Boar is as dog-friendly as they come. With its traditional interior and spacious layout, it’s an ideal option for larger dogs or group visits. The menu is classic pub fare with some unexpected twists – and there’s always a warm welcome for muddy paws.
📍 Castle St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5DF
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The Swan at Hay Hotel
If you’re after something a little more refined but still relaxed, head to The Swan. Dogs are welcome in the bar and garden area, making it a lovely choice for afternoon tea or a light bite. Food is served daily between noon and 2.30pm and again from 5.30 to 8.30pm. It’s one of those friendly places that manages to be stylish without being stuffy.
This listed Georgian building was a former coaching inn, and many of its rooms feature large original windows with views across the gardens or the stable block. There’s limited parking on site, but there’s also a pay-and-display area outside the hotel, or it’s a short walk to the main village car park. Dogs are welcome for a small charge.
📍 Church St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5DQ
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Dog Friendly Restaurants Hay-on-Wye
Sometimes, you want something more substantial than a sandwich and crisps or a slice of cake. These dog-friendly restaurants serve up something a bit more substantial.
Tomatitos Tapas Bar
A colourful and quirky gem, Tomatitos Tapas is the place for a fun evening out. They serve tasty tapas perfect for sharing (or not sharing; we’re not judging), and the staff are always happy to welcome dogs. With its warm lighting and relaxed energy, it’s ideal after a stroll along the river or a sunset amble up the hill.
📍 38 Lion St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5AA
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Burger Me Restaurant
Found inside The Globe, Burger Me is exactly what it sounds like: burgers, milkshakes, loaded fries and a relaxed atmosphere. You can eat with your dog or take your food away to enjoy in a nearby park. It’s a popular choice for casual dinners and especially handy if you’re staying in one of the local dog-friendly rooms nearby.
📍 Newport St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford HR3 5BG
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Dog Friendly Hay on Wye
Hay-on-Wye is a haven for book lovers and dog lovers alike. With its mix of winding lanes, riverside walks, and scenic trails, it’s an easy choice for a dog-friendly day out or a short break. The term places’ dog friendly’ and ‘Hay-on-Wye’ go hand in hand here – you’ll rarely walk past a cafe or pub that doesn’t welcome wagging tails.
BookBeat – Soundtrack Your Dog Walks
If you love turning a simple dog walk into a mini adventure, BookBeat is the perfect companion. This audiobook app gives you access to over a million stories – from gripping thrillers to feel-good novels – all ready to stream straight to your phone.
Even better, there’s a 30-day free trial, so you can give it a proper go with no pressure. And if BookBeat isn’t the right fit for you? No problem at all – you can cancel your subscription whenever you like, making it a totally stress-free way to soundtrack your dog walks.
How to Get to Hay on Wye
Driving? Park up at Oxford Road Car Park, which is central and easy to find. It’s only £4 for the whole day.
No car? No problem. Take the train to Hereford, the closest train station to Hay-on-Wye, then hop on the T14 Stagecoach bus. It runs Monday–Saturday with five services daily, winding through the lovely countryside before dropping you in town.
Hay-on-Wye Dog Friendly Accommodation
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array of options to accommodate all budgets.
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