How the Light Gets In

How the Light Gets In 2026

How the Light Gets In returns to Hay-on-Wye, Herefordshire, from 22 to 25 May 2026. Set in the scenic Welsh-English border town, this four-day festival blends live music, philosophy, and lively debates across various venues including the iconic Globe.

Music and Performance

Enjoy a diverse lineup of live music and performances under open skies, featuring folk, indie, jazz, and avant-garde acts. Evening entertainment includes comedy, cabaret, and DJs, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Philosophy and Workshops

Engage with leading thinkers in science, politics, and the arts through talks, workshops, and interactive sessions. The programme offers opportunities for all ages to explore creative writing, science, and philosophical debate.

Community and Setting

Experience the unique spirit of Hay-on-Wye with its bookshops, pop-up markets, and riverside trails. The festival fosters a welcoming, communal atmosphere ideal for making connections and sharing ideas.

Hay-on-Wye is easily reached by road or rail. The nearest train station is Hereford (about 20 miles north-east of Hay). From Hereford, local buses and taxis will take you the rest of the way in under an hour. National Express coaches also stop in Hereford. Additionally, Stagecoach and Yeomans-run buses connect Hay with nearby towns like Brecon and Cardiff, though these services run infrequently (check timetables before you travel). Hay-on-Wye sits just off the A438 between Hereford and Brecon: simply follow signs toward Hay-on-Wye, and the festival will be well signposted.

Major UK airports are 1-2 hours away by car. Birmingham Airport (about 90 minutes by car) and Cardiff Airport (around 1.5 hours) both offer domestic and international flights, and Bristol Airport (around 2 hours) is also an option. From any of these airports, you can rent a car or take public transport via Hereford. Birmingham Airport even has its own train station for easy connections to Hereford. Keep in mind that festival weekends can make local roads busy, so allow plenty of travel time if driving.

If you’re coming by road, one scenic route is via the M50/A449 from the east or A40/A449 from the south-west toward Hereford, then the A438 to Hay-on-Wye. The final approach offers lovely views of the Wye Valley. Parking is available at the festival site and around town, but expect it to be in high demand during event days. Car-sharing or other alternatives can save you hassle. Once in Hay, most venues and shops are within easy walking distance. Taxis are available (booking ahead is recommended) if you need to go further out.

Accommodation in Hay-on-Wye often books up fast in festival season. The town has a cozy selection of B&Bs, guest houses and small hotels, and there are also camping sites and holiday cottages in the surrounding countryside. It's wise to book lodging well in advance: many people come here for the overlap with Hay’s famous literature festival later in May, so rooms fill up quickly. Nearby Brecon or Hereford offer additional hotel options within an hour’s drive if Hay is fully booked.