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Old Black Lion, Hay on Wye - pub details

Address: 26 Lion Street, Hay on Wye, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR3 5AD [map] [gmap]

Tel: 0871 951 1000 (ref 36840) - calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras

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> Current user rating: 5.2/10 (rated by 6 users)
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other pubs nearby:

Kilvert's Hotel, Hay on Wye (0.1 miles), Three Tuns, Hay on Wye (0.2 miles), Rose and Crown, Hay on Wye (0.2 miles), Blue Boar, Hay On Wye (0.2 miles), Wine Vault, Hay-on-wye (0.2 miles) - see more nearby pubs

user reviews of Old Black Lion, Hay on Wye

please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.

5 most recent reviews of 6 shown - see all reviews

We got there at about 1:30 and asked if they were still serving food. The bloke behind the bar scowled at us and barked, 'We stop serving food at two'. Reasoning that this gave us plenty of time we gave him our order, which he took with what I can only describe as bad grace. We took no offence, however; he was such a bad tempered git that it cheered me up no end that we may have been the cause of his disgruntlement (mind you I don't think he was short of candidates). Supped on a well-kept pint of Reverend James while we waited for our lunch. The food was excellent and was brought out by a very friendly woman - the polar opposite of Mr Frosty - who was particularly sympathetic towards my hangover-afflicted wife. We will definitely be back - maybe at 1:45 the next time.
Kenny260556 - 3 Jun 2014 21:51
Having visited Hay for many years, the Old Black Lion has previously provided good food at a price that is more reasonable than the Three Tuns. On our most recent visit we were sadly disappointed to find the previously excellent traditional food had been replaced by over fancy pretentious dishes. That didnt taste that good either. What a shame.

Our greatest disappointment however was the treatment we received at the hands of the man behind the bar. He's previously been brusque at the best of times, however this time we fully saw his true colours. Our meal came to about £23 and we handed over £30 to pay. This man said "thanks very much" in a final way, turned round, put the change in his tips box and then walked off out of the back if the bar in to the private area, completely ignoring our cries of protest! This was not a mistake or misunderstanding, but had the appearance of a well practiced scam.

He obviously thought he could get away with it as we were just "tourists"

We won't be eating there ever again. You will recognise this charmer, if you are foolish enough to eat there, he looks like Paul O'Grady and has a particularly bright and offensive watch. Having helped himself to a £7 tip he can maybe afford a new one now.
davidevans - 24 Sep 2013 21:12
Visited again.

Despite offering great food and drink, I don't think this pub actually wants any customers.

Customers are a bit of a nuisance at the 'Olde' Black Lion.

Bar and table service is fairly prompt, but frigid. Their faces would fall apart if they cracked a smile, or engaged you in small talk.

It is as if it is beneath the staff to treat you as a fellow human being.

This is a mighty shame as I had some great times in this pub under friendlier staff.
griffo59 - 18 Aug 2009 14:22
A nice restaurant, but upmarket and not 'pub-grub'. They offer a restaurant menu and a bar menu. We opted for the latter but it was quite-pricey and felt like a restaurant. The food was quite rich, which will be pleasing to a lot of people but I found the sauce a bit heavy. It's worth coming here for a special meal.
Ale_Bob - 2 Aug 2009 23:12
Visited on a Monday lunchtime (27/07/09).

The pub looked shut. Door was closed (despite it being quite a fine day). No A-board. No sign at all that it was open.

Tried the door and found it was indeed open. A few customers scattered here and there, but not exactly buzzing.

Our party of 3 arrived at about 13.45 and were hurried into ordering our lunch by the barman (they stop at 14.00). Menu selection and specials board offered a good variety of tempting dishes.

Food was excellent, tasty and hot, but service was rather impersonal and perfunctory.

Had a pint of Reverend James, which was excellent.

A great pub if you want to eat, and enjoy good ales, but don't expect a friendly atmosphere or personal service (unless you are a regular).
griffo59 - 28 Jul 2009 19:11

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