The UK spot is known as a “gastro-hub” (Image: Benny Sutton via Getty Images)
While many people splash out on costly holidays abroad this summer, an equally magical experience can be found right here in the UK. Boasting a wealth of stunning destinations to discover, there are numerous charming towns that make for a perfect getaway, but one located in the West Midlands of England deserves to sit firmly at the top of your list.
This historic market town brims with character, and as you stroll through its centre, you’ll uncover a breathtaking blend of medieval, Tudor and Georgian architecture. It has been named by The Guardian as having one of the best high streets in the UK, not for its appearance, but for being “full of cool independents rather than the usual chains.” They said: “Ludlow has long been known as a gastro-hub, with specialist producers dotted along the high street and market place.”
Ludlow is located in Shropshire (Image: Getty)
They continued: “Visit the Mousetrap Cheese Shop, Harp Lane Deli and the Chocolate Gourmet for festive eats, or browse around Bodenhams, which sells clothes in a quirky, 600-year-old building.”
Why visit Ludlow?
There is an abundance of distinctive businesses to explore upon arriving in Ludlow, but your first port of call should be the traditional marketplace nestled right at the heart of the town square, as previously reported by the Express.
Having traded for over 900 years, it hosts a wonderful variety of stalls ranging from flea markets to artisan crafts, ensuring there is something to suit every budget. Ludlow Market is a treasure trove of delights, renowned for hosting a variety of specialist events throughout the year, including the Food and Craft Market, the Local to Ludlow Producers’ Market, and an Antique Market.
Once you’ve explored the local shops, your suitcase will be overflowing with gifts to bring home, thanks to a wealth of family-run businesses, including Bensons, a jewellery retailer, and Florabunda, a charming florist.
The marketplace has been trading for more than 900 years (Image: Getty)
Should hunger strike, a visit to the Ludlow Farmshop is an absolute must — a truly one-of-a-kind destination stocking locally sourced meats, cheeses, baked goods and other regional delicacies you simply won’t find anywhere else.
What else is there to do in Ludlow?
Ludlow has earned a well-deserved reputation for championing independent businesses, but should you fancy a break from shopping and dining, there is a wealth of sights waiting to be discovered.
Perhaps the most iconic destination is Ludlow Castle, a stunning 11th-century ruin constructed by the Normans, which affords spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.
Ludlow has everything you could want in an English town (Image: Getty)
A leisurely walk along the River Teme to admire Ludford Bridge is equally worthwhile — a striking structure that dates back to medieval times and is sure to impress.
Just a short drive away lies Mortimer Forest, boasting miles of stunning landscapes, whether you fancy a gentle woodland amble or feel adventurous enough to tackle the climb to High Vinnalls, the forest’s highest point.
Ludlow boasts everything one could desire in a tranquil English town, from historic streets and independent shops to delicious local food and stunning countryside right on its doorstep, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a peaceful summer staycation.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
