Ludlow, nestled in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is one of the UK's most underrated destinations, offering rolling hills, ruined castles, and fabulous food. Despite its culinary reputation, it rarely features on travel lists. The great English poet John Betjeman described Ludlow as 'probably the loveliest town in England.' Its renowned food and drink festival in September showcases local producers and provides an opportunity to sample Shropshire's finest cuisine, but the town offers plenty to see and do year-round.
Shops and Sights
Start by exploring Ludlow's star attractions: its buildings. Around 500 are listed, and locals say 'every house here has a story.' A good starting point is St Laurence's Church, one of the largest parish churches in England, featuring fine wood panelling and stained-glass windows. A climb up the tower offers panoramic views of the town and the Shropshire and Clee hills. Behind the church, pay respects to A. E. Housman, the poet of Shropshire, who lies buried there. Then move on to the stunning half-timbered Reader's House, follow the archway to the Bull Hotel (Ludlow's oldest coaching inn), and cross the street to inspect the Jacobean façade of the Feathers Hotel.
The surrounding streets are lined with timber frames, sandstone facades, and Georgian architecture. Browse independent shops such as Mousetrap Cheese Shop, vintage store Nina & Co, and The Potters Shop. Other local favourites include Planta Bay (a quirky terrarium and houseplant shop), All the Seasons, Broad Bean Deli, and Period House Shop. If visiting during the week, don't miss Ludlow Market, where traders sell local produce, antiques, and handmade crafts.
Ludlow Castle and History
Dive into history at Ludlow Castle, a Norman fortress built between 1086 and 1094 and added to over the centuries. Famous residents included the Mortimer family, one of whom was Edward IV, who reigned during the 15th-century Wars of the Roses. In 1483, his son Prince Edward left from the castle for London, where he was murdered in the Tower of London.
Where to Eat and Drink
For lunch, locals recommend Csons on the banks of the River Teme, known for its seasonal menu and hyper-local produce from the Shropshire and Welsh Marches region. Beer lovers should visit Ludlow Brewery, an independent microbrewery and tap room just a short walk from the town centre. It offers its own ales, hosts regular live music and pop-up food events, and serves a bespoke gin.
For an old-fashioned pub crawl, Ludlow has historic watering holes including Dog Hangs Well, Blood Bay, Old Street Tavern, The Blue Boar, The Queen's, and Rose and Crown. For dinner, The Ludlow Kitchen (though only occasionally open for dinner) boasts one of the most enviable menus in the country.
Getting to Ludlow
Ludlow is easily accessible via the A49 from Hereford or Shrewsbury. By train, journeys from the North are straightforward, but from London the three-and-a-half-hour trip involves a change at Newport.
