
Hay-on-Wye is a lovely little place, isn’t it? It’s like being cwtched into the most tranquil place in the world, nestled between the River Wye and the crisp countryside air, but Hay-on-Wye is hiding a terrible secret. Behind the valleys and plains that surround this idyllic Powys village lies a shocking truth: Hay-on-Wye is hiding away an absolutely banging food festival as part of the Hay Festival Winter Weekend – shocking, I know. With 40 companies and stalls from local producers, there’s a wide selection of food from local cheese to wholesome festive cakes. The festival has a high focus on seasonal winter cooking with a strong philosophy on sustainable and local produce, so whilst you may feel guilty for your waistline, you can at least clear your environmental and ethical conscience.

In addition to the range of food stalls, there’ll be musical entertainment, poetry and talks to add to the ambience. The festival’s legendary status has even reached Father Christmas who is rumoured to be there for the annual switching-on of the Christmas lights, too. There’ll be mulled wine on offer, too, if the Christmas spirit and food doesn’t warm up your belly enough.
The foodie festivities don’t end there, however. The day after, on Sun 26, there’ll be the Hay Does Vintage event which will involve over 50 vintage and retro traders. There’ll be a vintage teahouse there selling a rainbow of teas, along with a specialised cheese and butter market to satisfy any dairy craving.
In terms of the ever-elusive Father Christmas, he is rumoured to make an appearance to stock up on his yearly mince pies at Richard Booth’s Bookshop from 12-3pm on the Saturday, so pop down if you want some good local produce and you’re not a Scrooge.
Hay-On-Wye, Powys. Sat 25 – Sun 26 Nov. Admission: free. Info: 07779 012019 / http://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/