The market was once described by poet John Betjeman as “the loveliest town in England” – and it’s the perfect place to pick up some Christmas presents.
Tucked away between Wales to the west and Birmingham roughly an hour’s journey to the east, the pretty market town of Ludlow once earned huge praise from poet John Betjeman, who famously described it as “the loveliest town in England”.
Boasting over 500 listed buildings and the highest number of Michelin-starred eateries anywhere in Britain, it’s clear why this River Teme town continues to captivate visitors.
Located within beautiful countryside, it comes as no surprise that Ludlow secured a spot amongst the UK’s most picturesque towns for Christmas shopping in 2023. This medieval market town in Shropshire stands as one of England’s most enchanting spots, packed with things to see and do.
A market has traded outside Ludlow Castle since at least 1086, with plenty of stalls offering the perfect place to kick off your festive shopping spree.
What’s it like to live in Ludlow?
Perched dramatically on a cliff above the River Teme, Ludlow Castle buzzes with events year-round, playing host to various festivals including the Medieval Christmas Fayre. Visitors can snap up local and historical crafts, presents, food and drink at the event, reports the Express.
The town’s flourishing food scene and wealth of independent boutiques, eateries, and boozers make it a special place both to call home and to explore. The castle has also welcomed gigs from major names including Anne Marie, Kaiser Chiefs, Bastille, Rag ‘n’ Bone Man, and Nile Rodgers and Chic.
The impressive ruins of the castle, dating back to approximately 1086, are nestled in Ludlow’s oldest quarter. With improvements made over the subsequent centuries, it remains one of the most beautiful castles in the Marches, grandly overlooking the river Teme.
Boasting architectural styles from the Norman, Medieval and Tudor eras, Ludlow Castle welcomes visitors from 10am to 4pm, seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day and weekdays in December and January.
With an average house price of £255,091 over the past year, Ludlow has experienced a surge in popularity. It provides the perfect mix of a lively community with great schools and facilities, nestled within an Area of Natural Beauty that is a haven for cyclists, walkers and nature lovers.
Is Ludlow a safe place to live?
The crime rate in Ludlow for 2022 was noted at 74 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is roughly equivalent to the national average. The crime rate is in line with similar areas and is lower than the average for the West Mercia police force area.
Thanks to the nearby M5 and M42 motorways, the rest of the UK is easily reachable, while a thriving local bus network links the surrounding villages and towns.
According to TripAdvisor, the top 10 things to do in Ludlow are:
- Stokesay Castle: A fortified manor house that is an English Heritage gem according to visitors.
- Ludlow Castle: Events running throughout the year and you can also take a historic tour of the castle itself.
- Ludlow Brewing Company: You can take a tour, or enjoy food and drink and live music.
- St Laurence’s Church: A beautiful building with stained glass windows and superb sculptures.
- Clee Hills: A great place to walk and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Mortimer Forest: Take a walk through the beautiful forest with your pooches.
- Ludlow Museum: A lovely museum full of interesting artefacts.
- Ludlow Market: Food, drink, plants and crafts sourced within 30 miles of Ludlow.
- Mahorall Farm Cider: Taste different flavoured ciders and take part in a free nature trail
- Ludlow Racecourse: Fabulous views from the grandstand and a great place to try your luck.