The beautiful market town offers a wealth of history, culture and stunning countryside
Isobel Pankhurst Audience Writer
02:13, 08 Nov 2025
This West Midlands village has hundreds of years of history(Image: Getty)
Those seeking towns and villages to escape bustling cities shouldn’t overlook Ludlow, a picturesque market town situated in Shropshire, offering everything one could desire, from regular food festivals to historic landmarks and breathtaking countryside rambles.
Occasionally eclipsed by neighbouring Shrewsbury and Hereford, Ludlow remains thoroughly deserving of a visit should you venture into the region. From its ancient fortress and museums, to eateries housed within medieval halls and taverns occupying 16th-century structures, Ludlow’s heritage stands proudly on display.
The fortress was constructed following the Norman Conquest of England, and ranks among the “finest medieval ruins” in the nation, according to the Ludlow Castle website.
Ludlow Castle dates back to the Norman invasion(Image: Getty)
Given its proximity to Wales, Ludlow Castle served a crucial function in the conflicts between England and Wales. In 1223, King Henry III and Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Iorwerth convened at the fortress for peace negotiations.
Ludlow Castle has housed countless influential personalities across the centuries, including Roger Mortimer, who partnered with Queen Isabella to depose her spouse, Edward II, in 1327. During the 15th century, Edward IV frequently visited Ludlow and founded a council there to administer his Welsh territories.
Edward IV also dispatched his sons, the future King Edward V and his brother Prince Richard, to reside at the fortress. The siblings would subsequently be remembered in history as the Princes in the Tower, after their vanishing from the Tower of London in 1483.
Ludlow is hope to the largest parish church in Shropshire(Image: Getty)
Ludlow Castle also holds the distinction of being where Prince Arthur passed away in 1502, resulting in his younger brother, the future King Henry VIII, ascending to become heir to the throne.
In the centuries following the Civil War, Ludlow Castle has deteriorated into ruins, yet with much of its exterior walls remaining intact, it undoubtedly merits a visit.
Additionally, in Ludlow, tourists can explore St Laurence’s Church, which, similar to the neighbouring castle, traces its origins back to the Norman conquest. As Shropshire’s largest parish church, St Laurence’s has earned the nickname “Cathedral of the Marches”.
Those seeking outdoor relaxation should make certain to explore Ludlow Millennium Green or enjoy a walk along the Mortimer Trail, a long-distance footpath stretching from Ludlow to Kington on the Herefordshire/Wales boundary.
Visitors to Ludlow will find they have plenty to do in the town(Image: Getty)
Visitors to Ludlow must not overlook the renowned Ludlow Farm Shop, which provides a “one-of-a-kind” retail experience, according to the Ludlow website.
The town frequently plays host to Antique, Local Produce, and Craft Markets. It’s advisable to check the Ludlow Market website prior to your trip if you’re interested in attending any of these events.
As the festive period approaches, families will be delighted to learn that from December 6 to 23, Santa will take up residence at Ludlow Castle, allowing children to enjoy an enchanting meeting with Father Christmas in the castle’s spectacular grotto.
