Nestled beneath the ruins of a picturesque castle, with open bookshelves lining the streets and independent  bookshops at every turn, Hay-on-Wye is a bibliophile’s dream come true.

This quaint town, dedicated to the joy of reading, has been a haven for book lovers since 1961 when Richard Booth opened his first shop here, transforming it into a literary pilgrimage site. Today, it boasts over 20 bookshops and hosts an annual festival that attracts some of the world’s most esteemed authors and thinkers.

The Hay Festival, spanning ten days from May to June, is a highlight in the global literary calendar. The inception of the Hay Festival in 1988 solidified the  town’s reputation as a global literary hub.

Past guest speakers have included renowned actors such as Judi Dench and Jude Law, and even former US president Bill Clinton. One of the town’s unique features is a book spot nestled among the castle ruins, where visitors can browse open-air shelves brimming with books.

Operating on an honesty system, tourists are expected to leave money in a payment box after selecting their books, which typically range in price from £1 to £6. A TripAdvisor review says: “This is a very interesting place to visit with fabulous guides who have so much knowledge of the castle and it’s history….

“There is also a very good gift shop with an amazing array of history books and gifts of all kinds. I would definitely encourage you to visit.”

Well-loved bookshops throughout the vicinity include the original Richard Booth Bookshop, which stands as one of the largest literary establishments in Hay.

It stocks both fresh and pre-owned publications, featuring comfortable corners where visitors can linger and settle down with a tome on a settee.

A more distinctive setting for a bookshop is the Hay Cinema Bookshop, housed within a former picture house and spread across two storeys. The collection of volumes available for purchase is vast, whilst helpful directories at each row’s end assist shoppers in finding their way through the continuously growing departments of the establishment.

Castle Bookshop represents another beloved destination among bibliophiles and features as one of the premier attractions to explore in the town according to TripAdvisor. One review notes: “Best place in Hay for all types of books, with many bargains to be had. Has a lovely selection of old as well as new books.

“The only bad mark is it is not good for the disabled, as everything is up and down steps and tight walkways. But if you are a book fan, you must give it a visit.”