Hay Festival 2026 UK: Dates, Lineup, and Must-See Events

The Hay Festival is more than just a literary event – it's an experience that celebrates the magic of books, the beauty of the outdoors, and the joy of being surrounded by like-minded individuals. Held annually in the quaint town of Hay-on-Wye in Wales, this iconic festival has become a hub for creatives, book lovers, families, and adventurers.

With a range of events from author talks and live performances to inspiring discussions and local markets, it’s no wonder the Hay Festival attracts thousands of visitors each year.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the festival, including why it's worth attending, how to plan your visit, and how the Jackery Explorer 300D can help keep your electronics powered while you embrace the outdoor charm of the festival.

Overview of Hay Festival 2026

The Hay Festival is one of the UK's most celebrated cultural events, drawing visitors from around the world to explore the world of literature, ideas, and creativity. Held in the picturesque town of Hay-on-Wye, nestled on the border between England and Wales, the festival brings together authors, artists, thinkers, and audiences for ten days of inspiring talks, performances, and workshops.

In 2026, the Hay Festival will take place from May 21 to May 31, offering an exciting array of events, from intimate author discussions to lively panel debates on a wide range of topics, including literature, politics, science, and the environment.

Expect to see appearances from some of the world’s leading writers, filmmakers, and musicians, as well as rising stars who will share their stories and ideas. The festival’s line-up is always diverse, with events catering to all ages and interests.

Apart from the talks, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. The festival is well-known for its bustling local market, where you can shop for books, food, and unique crafts. The outdoor settings around the festival grounds offer a relaxed space for you to take in the atmosphere, with beautiful views and plenty of opportunities for a picnic or a quiet moment with a book.

Some of the headline names currently listed by Hay Festival include:

Emma Thompson, Miriam Margolyes, Ashley Walters, Hugh Bonneville, Malala Yousafzai, Gisèle Pelicot, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, Ian McEwan, Maggie O’Farrell, Ocean Vuong, Colm Tóibín, Matt Haig, Fredrik Backman...

The programme also shows specific sessions already scheduled, such as:

Dallas Campbell, Tony Robinson and Katherine Rundell with Simon Armitage on Thursday 21 May 2026 at 4pm, plus later events featuring names like Jack Thorne, Brenda Hale, Sarah Moss, Jeremy Bowen, Sathnam Sanghera, Lionel Shriver, and Miriam Margolyes.

Is the Hay Festival Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! The Hay Festival 2026 offers a unique blend of activities and experiences that make it a must-visit for a wide range of people. Whether you're a family looking for a fun and educational outing, a book lover seeking to engage with your favourite authors, or someone eager to explore new ideas, the festival has something for everyone. Here's why it's worth attending:

For Families:

The Hay Festival is an excellent destination for families. With its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, it offers plenty of activities that appeal to all ages.

Children can enjoy storytelling sessions, interactive workshops, and family-friendly performances, while adults can soak in the thought-provoking talks. The festival's outdoor space is perfect for families to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, the beautiful setting of Hay-on-Wye, surrounded by nature, is an ideal backdrop for a family adventure.

For Book Lovers:

If you're passionate about books, the Hay Festival is your dream come true. With a line-up that includes internationally renowned authors, poets, and thinkers, it's a chance to hear from the best in the literary world.

Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or graphic novels, the festival's diverse range of events will keep you inspired and engaged. You can attend author talks, book signings, and panel discussions, and maybe even discover your new favourite read.

For Adventurers:

For those who love adventure, the Hay Festival offers the perfect mix of cultural exploration and outdoor activities. Located in the beautiful Brecon Beacons, the town of Hay-on-Wye is surrounded by stunning landscapes, making it an ideal spot for hiking, cycling, and exploring. After a day of festival events, you can venture into the surrounding countryside for a peaceful retreat or even try a fun outdoor activity. The festival is a great way to combine your love of literature with a sense of adventure in the great outdoors.

For Open Minds:

The Hay Festival isn’t just for book lovers—it's for anyone who enjoys exploring new ideas. With talks on everything from climate change to technology, from politics to philosophy, the festival provides a platform for fresh, bold, and sometimes controversial ideas.

It's the perfect place to challenge your thinking, expand your horizons, and engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals. Whether you're interested in the environment, science, or social issues, the festival encourages open-mindedness and the exchange of ideas, making it an inspiring and thought-provoking experience.

How to Buy Tickets for the Hay Festival?  

Buying tickets for the Hay Festival is a simple and straightforward process, with a few different options available depending on your preferences. Here’s everything you need to know about purchasing your tickets, ticket prices, and any additional booking fees.

Book early to secure your preferred events, especially if you're attending popular sessions or events with limited availability.

Sign up for the festival’s newsletter or follow them on social media to stay updated on ticket sales, promotions, and event announcements.

If you're attending multiple events, consider purchasing a festival pass (if available), which could offer savings on multiple tickets.

 Where to Buy Tickets?

Tickets for the Hay Festival can be purchased directly from the official festival website. This is the easiest and most reliable way to secure your place at the event. You can browse the full event programme, select the talks, performances, or activities that interest you, and purchase tickets online. The website provides detailed information about each event, including dates, times, and pricing, so you can plan your visit ahead of time.

In addition to online purchasing, you can also buy tickets in person at the festival’s box office once you arrive at the venue. However, it’s always a good idea to book in advance, as some events can sell out quickly.

Ticket Prices

Ticket prices for the Hay Festival vary depending on the event or activity you’re attending. General admission tickets typically range from £5 to £20, with most events falling within this price range. Some special events, such as exclusive author talks or performances, may have higher prices, especially if they feature well-known celebrities or authors.

There are also a limited number of free events, particularly for children and families, such as storytelling sessions or hands-on workshops. Keep an eye out for these free activities, as they can be a great way to experience the festival without spending much.

Booking Fees

In addition to the ticket price, there is typically a small booking fee added to your order when purchasing tickets online. This fee is usually around £2 to £3 per transaction, regardless of the number of tickets purchased. This booking fee helps cover administrative costs associated with processing the tickets and maintaining the online system.

Group Bookings and Discounts

If you’re attending the festival with a group, be sure to check for any available discounts or group booking options. Some events may offer special rates for schools, charities, or groups, so it’s worth contacting the festival team directly for more details.

Planning Your Visit to the Hay Festival  

The Hay Festival is an exciting and vibrant event, but to ensure you make the most of your time there, a bit of preparation can go a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you plan your visit, including travel advice, accommodations, and more.

 How to Get There?

Hay-on-Wye is located in the stunning Welsh countryside, making it an idyllic spot for a festival, but it’s important to plan your journey in advance.

• By Car: The town is well-connected by road, with the M4 motorway to the south and the A438 road to the east providing access. The journey from London takes about 3.5 hours, while Cardiff is around an hour away. There are plenty of parking spaces available in Hay, though it’s advisable to arrive early if you want to get a good spot, especially during peak event times.
• By Train: The nearest train station to Hay-on-Wye is Hereford, about 20 miles away. From there, you can catch a bus or a taxi to the festival. While there’s no direct train line into Hay, it’s still relatively easy to reach by public transport.
• By Bus: A number of buses travel to Hay-on-Wye from nearby towns and cities, including Brecon and Hereford. Check local transport websites for bus timetables leading up to the festival. 

What to Pack and Prepare?

While the Hay Festival is an outdoor event, the weather in May can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack accordingly:

• Clothing: Bring layers to stay comfortable in all conditions. The British weather can be chilly in the morning and evening, even in spring, so pack a warm jacket and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the festival grounds.
• Weather Protection: Don’t forget your waterproofs and an umbrella. While May often brings sunshine, showers are not uncommon, so it’s wise to be prepared for all weather.
• Festival Essentials: If you plan on attending multiple events, bring a festival programme or download the Hay Festival app to stay updated on times and locations. You may also want to bring a notebook or journal to jot down your thoughts after author talks or events.

Accommodation Options

Hay-on-Wye offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Whether you prefer a cosy bed-and-breakfast or a more adventurous camping experience, there’s something for everyone.

• Camping & Glamping: If you want to experience the festival in its most authentic form, consider camping or glamping. There are several campsites around Hay, with options for both traditional camping and more luxurious glamping setups. 

These offer an ideal opportunity to connect with fellow festival-goers and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Many glamping sites offer comfortable tents with proper beds, heating, and sometimes even en-suite facilities, providing a more comfortable festival experience.

• Local Hotels & B&Bs: For those who prefer more comfort, there are plenty of charming local hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in and around Hay-on-Wye. Booking early is key, as these fill up quickly, especially during the festival. You may also find options in nearby towns like Brecon.
• Airbnb: Hay and the surrounding area offer a variety of Airbnb options, including countryside cottages, apartments, and rooms in private homes. It’s a great alternative for those looking for a more private or tailored accommodation experience.

Stay Powered Up with Jackery Explorer 300D

While attending the Hay Festival, you’ll likely spend a lot of time outdoors, whether you're attending events, exploring the local market, or relaxing between activities. Keep your electronics charged with the Jackery Explorer 300D, a portable power station that’s perfect for outdoor use.

It offers a reliable source of power for your phone, tablet, laptop, or any other devices you may need during the festival. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, and its high capacity ensures you won’t run out of juice during those busy festival days.

More Tips for Enjoying the Festival

With these tips, you’ll be all set to enjoy the magic of the Hay Festival, from the fascinating events to the beautiful surroundings.

• Arrive Early: If you’re keen on attending popular events or talks, try to arrive early to secure a good seat. Some events may also have a queue, so the earlier you arrive, the better your chances of getting in without any stress.
• Plan Your Events: With so much to do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take a look at the full event schedule and plan out which events you want to attend. You don’t want to miss out on key talks, so having a clear plan will help you make the most of your time at the festival.
• Enjoy the Atmosphere: While the Hay Festival is about the events and talks, don’t forget to soak in the overall experience. Spend time exploring the festival market, visit local shops, or enjoy a meal at one of Hay’s wonderful cafés or restaurants.

Jackery Explorer 300D Portable Power Station for Events 

The Hay Festival is an outdoor event at its heart, set in the picturesque town of Hay-on-Wye, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and open fields.

Whether you're staying for a few days or camping near the festival grounds, it's essential to have reliable power to keep your devices charged and running. The Jackery Explorer 300D is the perfect portable power solution to ensure you stay powered up while enjoying all that the festival has to offer.

 288Wh Capacity with 300W Output

With its lightweight 2.5 kg design, 3× USB-C, 1× USB-A, and car socket, this power station can deliver 288Wh of energy, which is equivalent to up to nine power banks, and has a maximum output of 300W. It keeps laptops, drones, and other devices fuelled simultaneously for travel, camping, and daily backup.

Continue Your Adventure, Charge Without Limits

Connect the E300D power bank to the small, foldable 40W solar panel for convenient, intelligent recharging on-the-go. It provides consistent solar energy wherever your journey takes you because to its small size, durability, and ease of attachment to a bike or backpack.

Two-in-one cable. Simply grab and go

With the unique 2-in-1 carry-and-charge cable, you can streamline your on-the-go power. You can take this E300D, walk around freely, and keep all of your devices charged and connected wherever you go because it is strong enough to support up to 10 kg and functions as both a durable handle and a 140W fast-charging cable with data transmission integrated in.

Nearly 0 dB. Silent Power

This quiet power station is much more powerful than a typical power bank and much quieter than traditional units thanks to its completely fanless design, which allows for whisper-quiet, nearly 0 dB operation. Take advantage of robust, dependable energy for both day and nighttime use without interfering with your sleep, concentration, or peace of mind at camp.

Smaller. Lighter. Easier to Carry

Just 2.5 kg and up to 56% smaller, the DC Explorer 300D is easy to carry with one hand. It’s up to 64% smaller and 39% lighter than industry-average AC power stations of the same capacity.

Attach the optional shoulder strap (sold separately) for true hands-free convenience. Simply sling your power station over your shoulder to keep your hands free and your power portable wherever your day takes you.

Convenient for Long Stays

If you’re planning to stay for several days or camping near the Hay Festival, the Jackery Explorer 300D is the perfect solution. It offers enough power to keep you connected, entertained, and comfortable throughout your trip.

Whether you need to power your fan on a warm night or charge your camera for capturing the festival atmosphere, the Explorer 300D has you covered, ensuring that you don’t run out of power when you need it most.

FAQs

The following are frequently asked questions about the Hay Festival in the UK.

1. What is the Hay Festival and when does it take place?

The Hay Festival is an annual event held in the picturesque town of Hay-on-Wye, Wales. It’s a celebration of literature, arts, and ideas, featuring talks, performances, and workshops by renowned authors, artists, and thinkers.

In 2026, the Hay Festival will take place from May 21 to May 31. This event draws thousands of visitors from around the world and offers a unique blend of cultural activities set in a beautiful outdoor environment.

2. How do I buy tickets for the Hay Festival?

Tickets for the Hay Festival can be purchased directly from the official website (Source: www.hayfestival.org). You can browse the event schedule, select your desired activities, and secure your tickets online.

Ticket prices range from £5 to £20 depending on the event, and booking fees of around £2 to £3 per transaction may apply. It's recommended to book early, as popular events often sell out quickly.

3. Is the Hay Festival suitable for families?

Yes, the Hay Festival is a great destination for families. There are plenty of family-friendly activities, including storytelling sessions, interactive workshops, and performances for children. The festival offers an inclusive and welcoming environment, with many free events designed to engage younger audiences. With its relaxed outdoor setting, it’s an ideal way for families to spend quality time together while enjoying creative and educational experiences.

4. What are the top 5 festivals in the UK?

Some of the top UK festivals include Glastonbury Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Notting Hill Carnival, the Chelsea Flower Show, and Reading Festival. Each gives you a unique experience, from music and art to nature and culture.

Final Thoughts

The Hay Festival is a truly unique experience, offering something for everyone, from book lovers and families to adventurers and open-minded thinkers.

By planning ahead—securing your tickets, preparing for all types of weather, and considering accommodations like camping or glamping—you can ensure that your visit is smooth and enjoyable. And with the Jackery Explorer 300D, you can stay powered up throughout the festival, keeping your devices charged as you take in all the action.