Ludlow

Food, folklore and fun

At the heart of Shropshire and one of the county’s most popular foodie destinations, Ludlow has a reputation for being a cultural and quirky town

DID YOU KNOW? Ludlow lies near the midpoint of the 257km England–Wales border

The half-timbered houses drew the eye of Poet Laureate John Betjeman

With nearly 500 listed buildings, in ancient stone, honey-colour timber and traditional brick, it is no wonder Sir John Betjeman once described Ludlow as “probably the loveliest town in England”. It is an accolade that seems well deserved once the town is properly explored.

Ludlow wears its history on its sleeve, with Medieval, Tudor, Norman and Georgian architecture all perfectly preserved in the pretty central area. This proud past is a testament to the spirit of the locals: withstanding invasions and occupations over the centuries to create a rich mix of heritage that is celebrated today.

Towers and traders

The castle makes a fine backdrop

THINGS TO SEE AND DO Ludlow Castle

Castle Square, Ludlow SY8 1AY ludlowcastle.com

Ludlow is the largest town in south Shropshire so has always had an important role locally, from its first mention in 1138 when it was known as Lodelowe – although Ludlow Castle appears to have been built prior to that in around 1075. This impressive structure was the brainchild of Roger de Lacy, with the great tower and bailey added at later dates and the town walls only being constructed in the 13th century. The positioning of the fortification

made it a vital border defence in various skirmishes between England and Wales, and later meant the town was well placed to take advantage of merchant trade routes and developing industry. During the 14th century the town was known for its metalworkers, shoemakers, butchers, drapers, mercers, tailors, cooks and bakers, and to this day Ludlow embraces independent businesses and artisan producers, of which there is a thriving community.

Festivals and food

Residents of Ludlow like a festival and held their own every year, from 1960 until only recently. While Ludlow Festival itself may have disappeared there’s ample opportunity to experience the town’s artistic and creative side at regular music events, food markets and book festivals amid a packed calendar of community activities.

The town is home to a busy arts centre and cinema, the Assembly Rooms, as well as small galleries and art venues. It has primary schools, a secondary school, sixth-form college and a small hospital as well as various sports teams and good transport links. At one time it had three Michelin-starred restaurants and eight AA Rosette winners to its name, and to this day it is a treat for those looking for some first-rate gastronomy.

Once you’ve sampled the plethora of local producers, the options for working off the excess are many. Ludlow is on a host of walking and cycling routes and the great outdoors is never far away in this bustling, pretty little town.

Ludlow Food Festival

8th-10th September 2023 foodfestival.co.uk

Ludlow Assembly Rooms

1 Mill Street, Ludlow SY8 1AY ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk