Outdoors@Hay

Campsite Outdoors@Hay is situated on the edge of the Black Mountains and Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. You might also describe its setting as being between Offa’s Dyke National Trail and the River Wye. Or as being on the border of England and Wales, a single mile outside the outdoorsy and bookish town of Hay-on-Wye. Whichever way you look at it, it’s in an excellent location – particularly if you’re looking for an action-packed holiday.

The 10 camping pitches here are just part of what’s on offer. This place is also an activity centre with canoe hire right here on site. There’s also a self-catering lodge, a cabin, a yurt and some bell tents. But it’s the camping pitches we’re here to promote. They are spread across two grassy, level paddocks (stretching to three when the Hay Festival takes place in May). It’s fairly informal but friendly owners Sharon and Mick will greet you on arrival and point you to the spot that will suit you best whether that’s in the quietest corner or closest to the facilities block. That’s a little timber cabin housing four loos and four showers with dishwashing sinks just outside.

From the Hay Literary Festival until the end of the summer there’s a simple cafe on site too. Breakfast baps are the speciality with tea, coffee, cake and snacks on offer for the rest of the day. For dinner it’s campfire cooking or a stroll into town. Hay-on-Wye is an easy mile walk away and there are plenty of places to eat out – including highly recommended tapas from Tomatitos or hearty pub food at The Blue Boar. You’ll be keen for that if you’ve spent the day on the water. Canoes are available to hire from site with a half-day to Whitney, the most popular paddle. The area is also famously fantastic for walking with Offa’s Dyke Path passing nearby and Hay Bluff temptingly close.