Visit Ludlow: Places to stay, things to do
Katie Reynolds explores Ludlow, a food-lover's paradise with a rich and interesting history
Image: © Copyright Pauline Eccles and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Why go there
Perched on a cliff overlooking the unspoilt River Teme, Ludlow is a historic market town bustling with quaint shops and elegant Georgian buildings. Home to the crumbling Ludlow Castle and more than 500 listed buildings, all surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the Welsh Marches, the town is a treasure trove of history and interest.
Dating back to 1085, the castle ruins boast an impressive history with Norman, Medieval and Tudor additions, and it has been home to multiple royal visits throughout its many years. The parish church is one of the largest in the country, with colourful stained-glass windows, and is the resting place of poet A. E. Housman.
The rolling hills, sweeping valleys and historic villages of the borderlands are easily explored from Ludlow, which is also a short distance from the Severn Valley Railway and Ironbridge Gorge – the heart of the Industrial Revolution.
As the host of Britain’s first food festival, Ludlow has a strong reputation for excellent food and drink, with the annual event drawing in hoards of foodies and this year, the castle will also host a second spring festival in May.
Dating back to 1085, the castle ruins boast an impressive history with Norman, Medieval and Tudor additions, and it has been home to multiple royal visits throughout its many years. The parish church is one of the largest in the country, with colourful stained-glass windows, and is the resting place of poet A. E. Housman.
The rolling hills, sweeping valleys and historic villages of the borderlands are easily explored from Ludlow, which is also a short distance from the Severn Valley Railway and Ironbridge Gorge – the heart of the Industrial Revolution.
As the host of Britain’s first food festival, Ludlow has a strong reputation for excellent food and drink, with the annual event drawing in hoards of foodies and this year, the castle will also host a second spring festival in May.
Where to stay
The Feathers Hotel is a tourist attraction in its own right, with an intricately patterned timber façade and delicate little windows. Described by The New York Times as “the most handsome inn in the world”, The Feathers is as beautiful inside as it is out and boasts a central location. Rooms start at £95 for a double.
Where to eat
Ludlow has more top-rated restaurants outside of London than anywhere else in the UK, with seven Michelin-guide eateries in the area. For local and seasonal culinary delights, La Becasse is sure to satisfy. The Michelin-starred chefs have a great reputation and have received much media interest.
Tell us a local secret
The castle appears to have had a turbulent effect on various royals – in the 14th century, Roger Mortimer helped his mistress overthrow her husband, Edward II at Ludlow, while in 1473, the Prince of Wales and his brother were held there before mysteriously dying at The Tower of London. In 1502, Prince Arthur, the original heir of Henry VII, also died here, leaving the castle haunted by unsuccessful royals.
