Ludlow is Shropshire’s largest town and lies near the Welsh border, 23 miles north of Hereford. The ruins of a medieval castle, bustling markets and a rich tradition for serving some of the area’s best food and drink make Ludlow an enjoyable and atmospheric place to visit. It’s also a stone’s throw from forests, valleys and rivers where you can hike, swim and cycle.
Traditional Medieval architectureEvery September, Ludlow hosts the Ludlow Food Festival, when the area’s best independent producers converge in the town centre. The event was the first of its kind in the UK when it was launched almost 20 years ago. It still attracts food lovers from across the globe who come to enjoy the demonstrations, activities and hundreds of tempting stalls.
Ludlow is a great place for shopping, with a variety of interesting independent businesses in the town centre. Don’t miss the award-winning Ludlow Market, which takes place at Castle Square every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. This market has been running for 900 years and you’ll find stalls selling everything from clothes and jewellery to plants and locally produced fabric.
Ludlow is perfectly located to explore the Shropshire Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the rugged area of the Welsh-English border called the Marches. The rolling hills, deep valleys and enchanting forests are excellent for fishing, canoeing, hiking, swimming and cycling.
There are a number of beautiful walking routes within a stone’s throw of Ludlow town centre. One popular trail leads to the stunning Castle Gardens and the Millennium Green. The green is a popular spot for picnic and there’s a good café if you feel like stopping for a cup of tea.
As you explore the countryside around Ludlow, you’ll get an insight into the area’s fascinating history. Don’t miss Caynham Camp, an Iron Age hill fort which dates back to around 500BC.
The Ludlow area is home to a remarkable variety of eateries, whether you’re looking for an evening meal in one of the town’s top fine dining restaurants, or a burger and chips with a pint of ale in one of the many inviting pubs.
“Perched on a cliff overlooking the River Teme and surrounded by the stunning Shropshire countryside is the welcoming medieval market town of Ludlow.”
For modern English cuisine by the River Teme, try the Waterdine Inn and Restaurant, set in a beautiful 16th Century Drover’s Inn. For some of the area’s best fish and oysters, head to the ever popular Fish House, in the town centre. If you want to try one of Shropshire’s best Indian restaurants, look no further than Golden Moments, on Broad Street. For fresh, modern food using some of the best seasonal ingredients, check out the Green Café.
Take a look at our full collection of Ludlow cottages for even more holiday inspiration.