Description
Welcome to Hay Castle: Your Exclusive Wedding Venue in Hay-on-Wye
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s truly one-of-a-kind, Hay Castle offers an exclusive-use venue right in the heart of Hay-on-Wye — the world’s first “Town of Books.” This historic castle, with roots stretching back centuries, beautifully combines timeless architecture with modern touches. Imagine exchanging vows with the stunning Black Mountains as your backdrop, creating unforgettable memories and photos to cherish forever.
A Venue Rich in History and Charm
Hay Castle isn’t just a venue; it’s a storybook setting filled with romance and character. From medieval sieges to vibrant moments in the swinging sixties, the castle’s history adds a unique depth to your wedding day. The venue hosts only a limited number of weddings each year, so you’ll enjoy exclusive use of the entire fortress and grounds — ensuring complete privacy and a truly personal celebration.
Beautiful Spaces for Every Part of Your Day
Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a lively reception, Hay Castle offers a variety of stunning spaces to suit your needs:
- The Great Hall: Host your main celebration in this 17th-century space featuring soaring ceilings, a grand fireplace, and medieval stone walls bathed in natural light — perfect for dinner and dancing.
- Outdoor Ceremonies: Say “I do” on the manicured castle lawns with breathtaking views of the castle and Black Mountains. For larger weddings, a marquee can be set up here to welcome up to 160 guests.
- Intimate Gatherings: For smaller groups, the private medieval tower viewing platform offers peaceful views over Hay’s rooftops and the River Wye. The upper-level mezzanines are also ideal for ceremonies or receptions with 20 to 50 guests.
Expert Planning Support for Your Perfect Day
Planning your wedding should be joyful and stress-free. That’s why Hay Castle provides a dedicated on-site wedding coordinator to guide you every step of the way. They work with trusted local suppliers for flowers, décor, and music to help you create a day that’s uniquely yours. Catering is handled by Epicure Events, who craft bespoke menus to delight you and your guests. Plus, if you want your furry friends to join the celebration, Hay Castle is a pet-friendly venue.
Guest Capacities to Fit Your Celebration
- Ceremony and Reception: Up to 60 guests comfortably inside the castle.
- Evening Reception: An additional 40 guests can join for the evening festivities.
- Marquee Reception: The castle lawns can accommodate a marquee for 100 to 160 guests, perfect for larger celebrations.
Experience
Overview of Hay Castle
Pricing for Hay Castle
Reviews (3)
- LLewis & Ellie30/06/2025Perfect Wedding!Perfect Wedding!We had our wedding ceremony in the Matilda room with drinks reception on the lawn and it was perfection! The Castle is beautiful from every angle with endless photo opportunities. The setting of Hay itself has everything you could want, with plenty of great accommodation walking distance from the castle. Sara made every part of the planning process easy, from coordinating with other suppliers and our reception venue to meeting with some guests beforehand to go over any accessibility concerns which were all accommodated on the day. It was invaluable to know we could relax on the day as Sara and the team had everything handled from the cakes to the flowers! We really feel like we hit the Jackpot with Hay Castle - thank you so much to everyone who helped make our day so special. You will be seeing us again soon!We had our wedding ceremony in the Matilda room with drinks reception on the lawn and it was perfection! The Castle is beautiful from every angle with endless photo opportunities. The setting of Hay itself has everything you could want, with plenty of great accommodation walking distance from the castle. Sara made every part of the planning process easy, from coordinating with other suppliers and our reception venue to meeting with some guests beforehand to go over any accessibility concerns which were all accommodated on the day. It was invaluable to know we could relax on the day as Sara and the team had everything handled from the cakes to the flowers! We really feel like we hit the Jackpot with Hay Castle - thank you so much to everyone who helped make our day so special. You will be seeing us again soon!
- FFlosinjail21/07/2023Lovely venueLovely venueLovely venue for the wedding party photos! and all the books your could dream of! Not very disabled friendly as there are lots of steps! A few rogue cats around looking for titbits and belly scratches!Lovely venue for the wedding party photos! and all the books your could dream of! Not very disabled friendly as there are lots of steps! A few rogue cats around looking for titbits and belly scratches!
- JJulia Butler & Tom Clements03/08/2022First wedding reception at Hay CastleFirst wedding reception at Hay CastleDear Helen, Sarah and all at Hay Castle. Thank you so much for all your efforts, generosity and adaptability which helped to make our wedding day on 2nd July such a success. So many guests were able to enjoy the castle during the reception and absolutely loved their time in its surroundings. Very best wishes for what I'm sure will be a busy but rewarding summer. Thanks again, see you soon. Dear Helen, Sarah and all at Hay Castle. Thank you so much for all your efforts, generosity and adaptability which helped to make our wedding day on 2nd July such a success. So many guests were able to enjoy the castle during the reception and absolutely loved their time in its surroundings. Very best wishes for what I'm sure will be a busy but rewarding summer. Thanks again, see you soon.
Location & Contact Details for Hay Castle
What makes Hay Castle a unique wedding venue in Hay-on-Wye?
Hay Castle offers an exclusive-use historic castle venue in the heart of Hay-on-Wye, known as the world's first "Town of Books." Its combination of centuries-old architecture with modern amenities and stunning views of the Black Mountains makes it a truly one-of-a-kind location for your wedding day.
Can I have both my ceremony and reception at Hay Castle?
Yes, Hay Castle provides beautiful spaces for all parts of your wedding day. You can hold intimate indoor ceremonies and receptions inside the castle, or opt for outdoor ceremonies and marquee receptions on the manicured castle lawns.
What is the guest capacity for weddings at Hay Castle?
The venue comfortably accommodates up to 60 guests for ceremony and reception inside the castle. For evening receptions, an additional 40 guests can join. For larger celebrations, the castle lawns can host a marquee accommodating between 100 to 160 guests.
Are there outdoor ceremony options available at Hay Castle?
Yes, couples can say "I do" on the beautifully manicured castle lawns with breathtaking views of the castle and the Black Mountains. A marquee can also be set up outdoors to accommodate larger weddings of up to 160 guests.
Does Hay Castle offer exclusive use for wedding events?
Absolutely. Hay Castle hosts only a limited number of weddings annually, providing exclusive use of the entire castle and grounds. This ensures complete privacy and a highly personal celebration for you and your guests.
Is Hay Castle suitable for small, intimate weddings?
Yes, the castle offers intimate spaces such as the private medieval tower viewing platform and upper-level mezzanines ideal for smaller ceremonies or receptions with 20 to 50 guests, providing peaceful and unique settings.
Does Hay Castle provide wedding planning support?
Yes, Hay Castle offers a dedicated on-site wedding coordinator who guides you through every step of the planning process. They collaborate with trusted local suppliers for flowers, décor, and music to help create your perfect day.
What catering options are available for weddings at Hay Castle?
Catering at Hay Castle is handled by Epicure Events, who create bespoke menus tailored to delight you and your guests, ensuring a delicious and personalized dining experience for your celebration.
Is Hay Castle a pet-friendly wedding venue?
Yes, Hay Castle is a pet-friendly venue, allowing your furry friends to be part of your special day and share in the celebrations with you and your guests.
Where is Hay Castle located and what are its historical features?
Hay Castle is located in HR3 5DG, Hay-on-Wye, Powys, Wales, GB. The castle is steeped in history, with origins dating back centuries, featuring medieval stone walls, a grand 17th-century Great Hall with soaring ceilings and a grand fireplace, blending historic charm with modern touches for a romantic wedding setting.
