The Three Tuns was badly damaged by a fire in February 2005 and is unlikely to re-open until 2006. More...Landlady Lucy Powell spoke to us in 2004 (before the fire in February 2005):
"This is the oldest licensed premises in Hay - it's over 400 years old. It's also the second oldest building in the town - Hay Castle is first and this comes second.
My father bought the pub and after his death, he left my mother the license and me the property. Two years later, my mother became crippled with arthritis so I had her and the business to look after for ten years. After she died, I had the licence so combined with mother, dad and myself, we've had it about 83 years.
Quite a number of famous people have come here over the years. As you know, we have this ten-day Hay Festival when a lot of famous people come here.
We had Marianne Faithful years ago, we've had Jools Holland and quite a number of other well known people have come in the place.
In January this year (2004), I had quite a surprise. A gentleman came in and said he was a friend of Jools Holland and he'd asked him to wish me a Happy New Year!
We also had five of the 'Great Train Robbers'. They were on the run and they came in and had a drink. They seemed quite normal people, just having a chat. One was a long thin-faced man by the name of Reynolds.
They had a nice shooting break (estate car) outside. It could sit about six people and it was out there for a couple of hours. They said they were going to have a look around.
After they went, one of my customers said to me 'I wonder if those were the train robbers?' I said 'strange you should say that - I was thinking the same thing'.
I looked up the street to see if I could see the police around but as usual when you want anybody, there's no-one around so I didn't do anything about it because I thought, you never know they may bump me off. I thought my life was more important than them.
I understand that about a week later a flash came over the television saying that one of the train robbers had been seen coming out of a local barber's shop. Well once that news was leaked out they moved from here, and they were caught about a month or six weeks later in either Surrey or Sussex.
I could have had a reward but the thing is, what's the use of having a reward when you may be dead? They may have had me bumped off.
I have also had some birthday cards from famous people. I had one from Neil Kinnock last year (2003) and also one from Jools Holland.
I really enjoy my work. It's very interesting. I've got such nice people coming in. I couldn't tolerate a rough trade. The ones that come in, well they're more like friends than customers which is very pleasant.
I've met thousands of people over the years. They seem to remember me more than I remember them. One person came in only this year and said 'I was here five years ago. Do you remember me? Well I said 'I've had quite a number of people in since then!'
After all, I am the only one behind the bar and there are a lot the other side!"
By Lucy Powell, landlady of the Three Tuns public house in Hay.
BBC News report on the fire of February 2005...
your comments
Hugh McConnell
Nice to see your smiling face again Lucy,hope all is well with you. I sampled many a pint of old rosie (lucy`s loopy juice) over a 17 year period and still have the scars on knees and elbows to prove it, and I will certainly be back to sample somemore. Good luck to the new owners
Tue Jun 3 16:15:49 2008
Paul Burns LYE
I have been to the three tuns every time I have visited hay on wye. Always a lovely greeting. On one occasion I asked for my third pint of cider, lucy said are you ok drinking that much? to which I replied oh yes I am used to cider. She replied "the last one to say that fell over by the clock" will miss you lucy xx
Fri May 30 09:55:43 2008
Caroline, Hereford
Unfortunately I never had the experience of visiting the Three Tuns whilst Ms Lucy Powell was the landlady, which was my great loss. However, I thought it very strange (uncharitable even) when I visited the pubs website today that there was no mention of Lucy Powell in the "History" section - she and her pub were obviously unique and deserve a mention especially for all those 'non-locals' unaware of its history and exceptional landlady.
Wed May 21 09:14:07 2008
Emma
Did the Culleys ever own this pub going back to the 1900's? I am trying to research my family history.Your doing a wonderful job :)
Mon Apr 28 09:32:09 2008
Peter Edwards
I have only ever been in this dear old pub once but it was the best pint of bitter I have ever had...
Mon Sep 10 09:42:24 2007
Dawn, Hay on wye
Rebuild looking good. Sure we will all get a warm welcome as we did from lucy, time moves on and things all have to be updated.
Mon Jul 16 09:40:44 2007
Iain Burgess
I am pleased to announce that Lucy will be the guest of honour and will re open the Three Tuns at 7pm on the 25th July. We very much look forward to welcoming both old regulars and new customers to the Three Tuns to view the restoration and share a drink with us
Thu Jul 12 10:08:16 2007
Thomas Winstone, Hay
As the first fire fighter to enter this pub, in the hot and dangerous conditions it was apparent that this little pub was much loved with many treasured items kept there. We tried desperately to save it with the limited resources we had. The fire ripped though the roof in no time at all. It was always a favourite pub of mine, to show off to friends and family alike. It has been greatly missed, the new re-build looks like it is to be a 'money-spinner' losing the traditions and values that went before! Lucy we miss you.
Sun May 27 19:12:37 2007
Toby Johnson
I will miss this pub dearly and my heart cries out to Lucy. Its my 100th birthday next week and I was hoping to have my party at her dear old pub but that isn't possible anymore...I wonder whether she's reading this .... Lucy will you marry me? xxxxx
Fri May 11 11:14:34 2007
Ian Sadler from Pendle
I think everyone should let Iain get on with it.
It's a plague on all our society that nowadays people seek to bleat and moan without knowing what's going on.
Mon Feb 26 12:38:54 2007
Iain Burgess
The builders started refurbishing the pub in September 06. Planning permission and LBC is not required for repairs or identical replacement.
We have laid the sub surface foundations for the proposed extension. The earth can be placed back over these in the unlikely event that we are required to do so.
I hope this clarifies
Iain Burgess
Thu Feb 22 09:52:03 2007
Nicholas Keeble, Hay-on-Wye
Iain Burgess, the new owner of The Three Tuns, seeks to assure us all that the building is safe in his hands, and that restoration is being carried out passionately and sympathetically. I have just one question for Mr Burgess: why is work being carried out at all when I believe neither planning permission nor Listed Building Consent have been granted by the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority?
Mon Feb 19 11:11:24 2007
Iain Burgess ,Hay on Wye
As the new owner of the Three Tuns I was disappointed to read Johnny’s and Roberts comments. The restoration of the Three Tuns is being carried out passionately, sympathetically and without budgetary constraints. I really hope as many people as possible are able to enjoy the whole of this fascinating building rather than just a small part of it. We are totally open about the restoration project and post regular photographic updates on the pub web site.
Lucy is irreplaceable as a Land lady. We do hope however that people will visit and judge the restoration themselves before making judgement.
Fri Feb 9 09:43:59 2007
Johnny Kramer, Hay on Wye
I would like to register my concern and dismay at the events currently in development at the above property. The Three Tuns in my opinion and many others was a truly unique building in Wales as it was an amazingly original pub that had remained unchanged for nearly 80 years until it was tragically damaged by fire in 2004. It was a fantastic piece of living history that is just too valuable to let go. People around the world were deeply saddened by this event and desperately hoped that when the building was sold last year, Cadw and the Brecon Beacons National Parks would not allow this bulding to lose its! character when it was eventually redeveloped.
Tue Feb 6 16:37:50 2007
Robert Wheatcroft, Hay on Wye
At the auction sale of the Three Tuns in 2006, Ryan Willams said that buying this old pub was 'one of the last opportunities to acquire an unspoilt property in Hay which has remained largely unaltered since Victorian times'.
What a tragedy then that despite it being the second oldest building in Hay, Brecon National Parks Authority are about to approve plans that are totally inappropriate and that completely destroy the historical nature of this site.
Most people in Hay and especially those who loved this pub, would be horrified if they knew what was proposed.
Mon Feb 5 09:50:11 2007
Marion Evans from Vencimont, Belgium
My husband, David Evans,our children Audrey and Anthony are going every year to Wales, Crickhowell and Cwmdu and of course Hay and we used to have a picnic next to the river and have a beer at the Three Tuns, one of the most authentic place in Wales if not the most...and the landlady was charming...PLease, I hope the restoration will respect the old pub...now our children have become adults..audrey lives in London and is a member of "the mediaeval baebes" but she went back to Hay a few times ...and soon with her baby...seems to become a tradition in our family.
Tue Jan 16 09:31:51 2007
Troy Hanniford From Cardiff
I was lucky enough to visit Hay during one of it's world renowned literary festivals, however I wasn't expecting the small town to be as thriving as it was. I could barely find a place to sit down and read one of the books I had purchased. Much to my relief I stumbled across a gorgeous petite pub where I could have a quiet pint and a look at my book. The pub was The Three Tuns and the lovely, friendly landlady was Lucy Powell.
The Three Tuns was my favourite pub I had ever visited and I was hoping to revisite it this coming summer, however I sadly discovered this site and was devastated by the news. I am however very glad to hear dear Lucy is alright and I wish the new owners all the best of luck. If they can make it as half of a wonderful place as it was it would still be definately be worth visiting.
Well I will be returning in the Summer for a pint and quick quiet read so prepare the taps. And Lucy I hope to see you too and have a good old catch up. Lot's of Love to you dear Lucy.
Fri Dec 8 20:40:26 2006
Philip Collie
Sorry to have missed this place. I'm a newcomer to Hay. Does anyone know what's happening to it?Find out more about the Three Tuns...
Tue Sep 5 09:23:30 2006
Josephine Wheldon (nee Jenkins), Worcester
My Grandfather Edward John Jenkins was licensee of The Three Tuns between 1916 and 1920. My Uncle and Aunt were born there in 1918 and 1919. The fire in February 2004 destroyed much of the interior of the pub but at least the main structure of this quaint and ancient building is still intact. Fortunately nobody was injured in the fire. Lucy Powell is my Godmother. She is one of Hay's special characters and I wish her well in her retirement.
Thu Jun 22 17:25:43 2006
Di Allen from Ashton under Lyne, Lancs
My great grandfather, James Morris, was the landlord of the 'Three Tuns' in 1861. How sad that it's gone - I've only just found out about my ancestors and was looking forward to visiting the pub which played a big part in my family history. My grandmother, Agnes and her brother Charles, must have played there when they were young. I wonder if any one has old photos of that time and would be prepared to share them. I would be really interested in seeing them.
Mon Jun 5 10:00:34 2006
Ryan Williams
The Three Tuns is to be sold by public auction on 22nd June 2006, Price guide £150,000, get details from agents - www.mccartneys.co.uk we hope a true fan buys it.
Wed May 24 09:14:55 2006
Rod Williams
It wasn't one of my rockets, honest.
Fri Jan 6 19:38:37 2006
Roddy Williams
I well remember way back in the 60's myself and a fellow 'rocket man' living nearby built a small rocket in his yard. This was during a summer holiday period probably. I well remember the countdown and ignition by electric fuse.It was worthy of anything NASA could have staged. Billowing smoke the rocket slowly rose from its launchpad gracefully but we hadn't allowed for the cross wind as it headed for destinations unknown when it turned and crash landed on Lucy's 'The Three Tuns' doorstep still showering out sparks and clouds of white smoke. Well known in Hay for our pyrotechnical acheivements some better forgotten perhaps, our fate was in the hands of destiny or even the local constabulary possibly. We made a dash for the still hot and firey rocket when more hell fire erupted, Lucy opened her door. Caught red handed we thought 'oh dear', well it was worse than that but I can't write what e really said.
Lucy just took one look somewhat perplexed and said, " It's a bit early for fireworks isn't it boys "?. Well it was only August. "Ah, yes " we said" and beat a hasty retreat.
Well they say there is no such thing as a free launch? Such is life.
Sat Dec 17 09:14:37 2005
joan[ greenway ] lowther from london
i have had many a good night in the three tuns with my friends rose, patty, anne, vicky, etc, sitting by the fire while drinking scrumpy i was never sure if it was the cider or the fire that made my cheeks burn but always came out from there in high spirits. does anyone remember the one arm bandit that lucy had where she would give you old sixpence pieces to put in then if you won would use this old money to buy the next round,
Sat Dec 10 15:36:23 2005
Michael Warren bwlch
i have never been so upset in my life the three tuns gone let us hope it will be restored. lucy i love you.
Thu Dec 8 13:47:47 2005
Greenway from Y Gelli
I once lost a tooth in that dear old pub and to my surprise when i returned there for a pint Lucy had it behind the bar in the lost and found. Thats just one of my fondest memories of this beloved pub and caring,local landlady.
Thu Jul 14 22:15:10 2005
Lucy Powell from Hay-on-Wye
Thank-you for your lovely comments. Its good to see my pub will be missed. Im glad i gave you all a lasting impression.
Fri Jul 8 16:36:59 2005
Sam Morris from Pont Ithel
Hay-on-Wye is such a gorgeous place and it will be scarred by the loss of this excellent tavarn.
Fri Jul 8 16:22:51 2005
Shaun Meredith from Hay-on-Wye
I've known Lucy since she was a toddler she always has had so much energy and passion. Let's hope the spirit of the Three Tuns stays in its homeland Hay-on-Wye.
Fri Jul 8 16:21:09 2005
Gordon Snape from Usk Prison
I have very fond memories of the Three Tuns. It was a lovely place and served a lovely pint of cider. Thank-you for those memories Lucy.
Fri Jul 8 16:17:13 2005
Ben Barrell Hay-on-Wye
There's only one word to describe the loss of the Three Tuns- hurendous. It was so unexpected. A severe loss to the plateux of Hay.
Fri Jul 8 16:14:53 2005
Zack Snape Hay-on-Wye
If it wasn't the allotment it was the Three Tuns, a place of peace. And always a warm welcome.
Fri Jul 8 16:11:52 2005
George Bardon Hay-on-Wye
The Three Tuns what a beloved place by all in Hay. Father and I will miss it sorely it was a comforting place for us, and many other citizens of Hay.
Fri Jul 8 16:10:00 2005
Max from Hay-on-Wye
When I first heard The Three Tuns was burnt down I couldn't believe my friend Hal was telling the truth. On my way home from school as I approached Hay Bridge, I saw that the rummours were not rummours. Memories came back to me of Lucy babysitting me as a child and my first thought was that if she was ok. When I found out she was fine just rather shocked, my attention turned back to the smouldering Three Tuns. A tear ran down my face and I proceeded home still in disbelief of what had happened, it was terrible!
Fri Jul 8 14:49:43 2005
Gareth Taylor, Hay on Wye
Well what can I say about Lucy's? It's like the pub where time stood still! I wish I could say I had fond memories but that scrumpy has a nasty habit of knocking you seven ways from Sunday as soon as you step out the door (great fun really)! I recently moved from Hay after being a resident all my life and was shocked when I heard the news that the Three Tuns (juicy lucy's as she's lovingly known amoung the younger crowds) had burnt down but relieved to hear that she was not hurt. All that venture to Hay should sample the delights of the Three Tuns. It'd be rude not to!Best of luck to you Lucy!
Sat Jun 11 05:24:54 2005
Bob and Bette from Bolton
Glad that Lucy is O.K. WE had a memorable visit 2 years ago with our good friends Marilyn and Paul from Radstock, can't and won't forget Lucy and her cider. We wish you well and hope that repairs are soon underway. Best Regards.
Wed Jun 1 17:51:00 2005
H. Terry from Maryland
Bless Ms. Lucy. It was a dark and stormy night... Before it was over, I had my most enjoyable pub experience. Fun patrons and incredibly delicious perry. I will never forget it.
Wed May 25 00:08:50 2005
David & Julie Brazeau from Wisconsin
We first read about the fire in What's Brewing, the CAMRA newspaper. We always look forward to our visits to Hay-on-Wye and especially our good friends at The Three Tuns. We feel very fortunate and honored to have found such a warm welcome at Lucy's. The news of the fire is devastating but we are relieved that Lucy is well.
We would welcome any news about The Three Tuns. A hearty hello to Lucy, Hayden, Tony and Anita, Eddy, Mel, Ashley, Roger, Richard and the whole team. We miss you all! Read the latest about the Three Tuns in this BBC News Story...
Mid Wales Web Team
Mon May 23 05:13:09 2005
Tracy in Canberra
I was introduced to Lucy and the Three Tuns by a good friend of mine who is a local. I spent the best New Year I've ever had there. Glad to see that Hayden is keeping up the festival and here's hoping the roof is restored soon.
Wed Apr 13 02:41:37 2005
Bo Nilsson , New Zealand
Lucy's is the best cider drinking place in the world! !
Sat Mar 19 02:39:43 2005
Julie Plumstead in Australia
My father took me for my first ever drink in the Three Tuns, and over the years I took many friends to experience the cider. Lucy runs an extremely unique pub.
Mon Mar 14 16:53:12 2005
The Fruit
Let's all hope they quickly restore the old pub.
Tue Feb 15 17:52:47 2005
Mike from Calgary, Canada
I too had the pleasure of meeting Lucy in the Three Tuns, and glad to hear that she was ok! I was told that this was a "must see" pub to visit while in Hay. My wife and I had a cider each and really enjoyed our chat with Ms. Powell.
I'm hoping it's able to be rebuilt soon and wish Lucy all the best in the future!
Mon Feb 14 16:50:57 2005
Finn from Hay-on-Wye
I wholeheartedly second all of the comments above and therefore also express my deep regret and sadness at watching this legendary institution burn down yesterday.
A sad, sad day.
Fri Feb 11 14:53:05 2005
Michael Hoover from California, USA
I remember with great fondness (and a great deal of respect) the hard cider at the Three Tuns. I remember also Ms. Powell, who very kindly warned me that cider probably wasn't "what I was used to", and that I should "go slowly". Ma'am, I should have listened.
Thu Feb 10 22:02:47 2005
Brett
Burnt badly today.
Lucy is ok.
10/Feb/05
BBC news story about the fire at the Three Tuns
Thu Feb 10 17:07:47 2005
Max Houghton - Leicester
This pub molds itself around you as soon as you walk in and is like a doorway into a warm friendly past. Nothing is contrived; it is just how it must have always been since it first opened. The landlady keeps this fantastic place alive and helps your excellent beer down with gentle tails of times gone by. A rare and genuine experience.
Sat Jan 15 21:23:20 2005
Michael-Paul Jackson from Bolton
I love Hay and try to get there for the books as often as time and finance permits. However, it is the Three Tuns that makes those breaks so special. To those who plan to visit the town be careful with that cider - it bites back if you're not careful. If Eddy, Mel, Haydn, Tammy or Lucy see this - HELLO - and I'll see you soon.
Fri Nov 5 11:46:54 2004
Aubrey Fry From Hay on Wye
Lucy is one of my oldest and fondest memories of Hay on Wye. She was introduced to me by my father Chris Fry who owned the Blue Bore in Hay at the time. He used to take me there at least once a week. I would have something soft as he had a pint of old rosy cider. This is one of the most remarkable pubs I have been to and also the most remarkable land lady. She at her grand age still runs the most traditional pub this country has. It quite literally has not changed for well, my lifetime. What an experience - a must for any good hearted visitor to Hay. Enjoy a pint in the public living room of this house that is nothing short of legendary.
Mon Aug 23 20:00:10 2004
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Landlady Lucy Powell shares her memories of life in the pub which has been in her family for 80 years. Marianne Faithfull and the Great Train Robbers are just a few of the customers she's served. 
