💍 Hay Castle Weddings – A Historic Fairytale Venue in Hay-on-Wye
- Ian Bennett
- Nov 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Few venues capture the magic of history, beauty, and romance quite like Hay Castle in Hay-on-Wye. Set in the world-famous “Town of Books” on the Welsh border, this remarkable Grade I listed castle is one of the most unique wedding venues in Wales. With its blend of medieval architecture, elegant restoration, and breathtaking views of the Black Mountains, it’s no wonder couples fall in love with this extraordinary setting.
A Storybook Setting with Centuries of Romance
Dating back centuries, Hay Castle has lived through medieval battles, Georgian grandeur, and modern revival — and now, it opens its doors to couples looking for a truly one-of-a-kind celebration. Every stone wall and timber beam seems to tell a story, giving weddings here an atmosphere of timeless romance and wonder.
Hosting only a select number of weddings each year, Hay Castle offers exclusive use of the entire venue, ensuring your special day is completely private and personal. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate elopement or a full-scale celebration, the castle’s combination of charm, elegance, and history makes it a standout choice for couples who want something extraordinary.
Beautiful Spaces for Every Moment of Your Day
Inside the castle, The Great Hall provides a dramatic yet elegant backdrop for your wedding breakfast and evening celebration. Its high ceilings, grand fireplace, and historic stone walls are filled with natural light, making it perfect for both dining and dancing.
For ceremonies, couples can exchange vows in The Old State Room, the Medieval Tower, or even outdoors on the castle lawns, surrounded by manicured gardens and panoramic views of the Black Mountains.
If you’re planning a larger wedding, a marquee can be set up on the lawns to host between 100 and 160 guests, blending the charm of the castle with the flexibility of an outdoor celebration. For smaller gatherings, the tower viewing platform or upper mezzanines offer intimate spaces for 20 to 50 guests — ideal for micro weddings with an unforgettable atmosphere.
Expert Planning and Bespoke Catering
Hay Castle’s dedicated wedding coordinator ensures every detail is taken care of, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free experience. The team works with trusted local suppliers to bring your vision to life, from floral design and décor to music and photography.
Catering is handled by the renowned Epicure Events, who create delicious bespoke menus tailored to each couple’s tastes — from elegant canapés to full fine-dining banquets. You can even bring your furry friends along, as the castle is a pet-friendly wedding venue.
A Venue That Feels Like a Dream Come True
What truly sets Hay Castle apart is how seamlessly it blends its rich history with a sense of modern celebration. The castle lawns overlook the River Wye and the rolling Welsh hills, creating an atmosphere that’s both majestic and relaxed.
The location is also ideal — right in the centre of Hay-on-Wye, surrounded by boutique shops, charming accommodation, and endless photo opportunities among historic streets and countryside backdrops.
What Couples Say
Couples who have tied the knot at Hay Castle describe it as “perfect from every angle.” One recent bride said,
“We had our wedding ceremony in the Matilda Room with drinks on the lawn and it was perfection! The setting of Hay itself has everything you could want, with plenty of great accommodation walking distance from the castle.”
Another couple praised the staff, noting how the team’s attention to detail made their day effortless and memorable.
Hay Castle Wedding Packages and Pricing
Hay Castle offers flexible options for different celebration sizes and budgets, including:
Ceremony-only hire from £600
Exclusive full-day wedding hire from £5,250
Outdoor marquee celebrations from £7,900
The venue can comfortably host up to 60 guests indoors, with room for an additional 40 evening guests or 160 guests outdoors with a marquee setup.
Final Thoughts – Why Hay Castle Is a Truly Special Wedding Venue
For couples looking to combine history, beauty, and exclusivity, Hay Castle is nothing short of magical. From its ancient architecture and luxurious spaces to its breathtaking views and warm, professional team, every detail here feels designed to make your day unforgettable.
It’s a venue where old-world romance meets modern elegance — perfect for anyone dreaming of a wedding steeped in history yet full of contemporary style.
Venue Details📍 Hay Castle, Oxford Road,
Hay-on-Wye,
Powys,
HR3 5DG,
Wales
🌄 Exclusive-use historic castle with indoor and outdoor ceremony options
🐾 Pet-friendly | On-site wedding coordinator | In-house catering by Epicure Events
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