Ludlow, the Shropshire market town once called "the loveliest town in England" by poet John Betjeman, has been recognised as the UK's best food and drink destination in a Which? Travel survey of more than 9,000 people.
With over 500 listed buildings and a skyline topped by a Norman castle, Ludlow combines historic appeal with a modern food scene. Cobbled streets lead to delicatessens, bakeries, pubs, and acclaimed restaurants, earning it the title of "food and drink capital of the Marches".
Local Produce and Dining
Which? Travel noted: "Instead of a handful of high-end eateries, there's a culture of local produce as well as numerous pubs and cafes, served by people who care about the food." The town's menus emphasise fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal changes.
TripAdvisor currently ranks Old Downton Lodge as Ludlow's finest restaurant. CSONS is another popular choice for relaxed dining, while Kin Kitchen and The French Pantry offer cafe and bistro fare. Pubs such as The Queens and The Boot Inn also receive excellent reviews.
Markets and Festivals
Ludlow Distillery experts said: "The strength of this offering is best seen (and tasted) by a visit to the Local to Ludlow Market in the Castle Square (where growers and makers based within 30 miles of the town sell a range of high-quality and carefully selected produce), and the award-winning Broad Bean fine food delicatessen on Broad Street."
The town embraces the 'Slow Food' movement, an international grassroots organisation. Slow Food Ludlow Marches runs activities throughout the year, including Taste Workshops at Ludlow Food Festival in September. The festival attracts around 15,000 visitors to Ludlow Castle over three days.
The Winter Festival at Ludlow Castle, scheduled for November 27-29, 2026, will feature local entertainment, mulled wine, and favourites from the food festival. Visitors can also explore the Ludlow Local Produce Market on the second or fourth Thursday of each month, which showcases food and drink sourced within a 30-mile radius.
Wells in Somerset was the runner-up in the Which? Travel survey for inland dining. Other recognised destinations include Lavenham in Suffolk, Llangollen in Denbighshire, Stamford in Lincolnshire, and Cartmel in Cumbria.
