Tudor town with fairytale castle and ancient bridge is perfect escape | UK | Travel

Bursting with history, this quaint market town is the ultimate weekend getaway, with more than 500 listed buildings to explore and its well-known foodie reputation.

Many chose to pay a visit to Ludlow for its proximity to great hiking and cycling destinations, while history buffs love it for its old churches, castles and mediaeval monuments.

As the town has grown over the years, it now offers a vibrant atmosphere with its own market, independent shops and regular festivals celebrating local talent.

Ludlow lies along the River Teme, with its oldest area being the mediaeval walled town, dating as far back as the 11th century.

This part of the market town lies on the eastern bank of the river, while the castle sits on a hill and the rest of the streets slope downwards towards the river.

Ludlow Castle

As one of the main tourist attractions in the area, Ludlow Castle sits as an uninhabited, partially ruined mediaeval fortress. Its origins are linked as far back as 1066 – before that, it was then the home of Prince Edward from 1473 to 1483, and for centuries it remained in the care of the crown.

By 1760, the government had considered demolishing the property but, due to high costs, decided instead to lease it, and so the Earl of Powis began his stay in 1711.

As of then, the beautiful castle began to attract tourists, with their love for the picturesque style, and walks were set out exploring the grounds and surrounding areas.

Due to the success of this, the Earl purchased the castle in 1811, and it has remained in the care of the Trustees of the Powis Castle Estate ever since, who have ownership on behalf of the family.

A visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “Lovely morning exploring the castle; so much to wander around even though it was very cold. The views were amazing from the top of the towers. You could feel the history come alive whilst walking around.”

Another wrote: “The main attraction in Ludlow – a site of enormous historical significance. The castle covers a very extensive area with amazing views from the top. In the castle shop do go upstairs to the gallery; it has some very interesting information.”

The castle, standing tall on top of that very same hill, remains open to the public to explore and learn about its impact on the town. Opening times may vary, although the castle can be expected to be open from 10am until 4pm every day.

Entry tickets can be bought on arrival – however, booking in advance online is typically best. Adult entry costs £10, while a child ticket is £5 and family tickets are £28.

Stokesay Castle

The fascinating buildings don’t stop there, as Stokesay’s glorious manor house continues to wow bypassers with its timber-framed detailings.

It was built like a castle, although in actual fact it is a mansion, completed in 1291, and with little to no signs of change or modernisation ever since.

Owned by the English Heritage, the protected building has been carefully preserved to be just as it was and offers guided tours for those intrigued to learn more.

Although, once upon a time, it was founded by Laurence of Ludlow, a renowned wool merchant, in fact, one of the best in the country, and it remained in his family right up until the 16th century.

The architecture and design can tell us a lot about the era and continue to act as a getaway into the past. It is open for visitors from Thursday through to Sunday, 10am until 4pm, and adult tickets cost £9, with a child ticket at £5.40.

One visitor shared: “The castle that is not a castle! Thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The audio guide provided us with an amazing amount of useful information. A must-visit while in the area.”

Eating out

Ludlow has a strong reputation as a destination for foodies, often called the food capital of Shropshire. It’s gained this title through its fine selection of local produce, with endless independent producers and high-quality artisan food, which is all showcased at the annual food festival.

Over the course of one weekend in September, this year, 11-13, the festival hosts a dynamic programme of live shows, including cooking demonstrations, workshops, talks and, of course, showcases produce you can take home with you.

Of course the area is also home to a number of pubs and restaurants that also receive high praise of their own. Rated as the number one spot on TripAdvisor is The Blue Boar, a lovingly restored Grade II listed pub on Mill Street.

A recent customer wrote: “Wonderful cosy, homely, friendly pub. Called twice on our little getaway, food was excellent, service was professional and friendly, and we would definitely recommend it to all our friends and family. Can’t wait for our next trip to Ludlow just to visit here again.”

Other food spots include The French Pantry, Old Downton Lodge, The Queens, and the Michelin restaurant, known as The Charlton Arms Restaurant.