WHY SHOP IN LUDLOW?
Ludlow is an historic market town which has maintained its significance as a trading centre since the recorded history of the town began in 1086, during the construction of the castle.
Held since the twelfth century, Ludlow Market is award winning, and hosts farmers, craftspeople, and small businesses - all supported by the local and wider community. The impact of this dedication to tradition and “shop local" ethos is flaunted in Ludlow’s incredible array of independent businesses; from food trucks and restaurants, to tailors and carpenters, there really is something for everyone. If you are visiting Ludlow on holiday, you would be hard pressed not to notice how much the locals love their town, and they’re always happy to lend a helping hand and a hearty welcome to visitors.
There's also an extraordinary calendar of events all year round. We’ve enjoyed Madness quite literally lighting up the town; 30 years of the renowned “original” food festival; and we’re looking forward to Russell Howard making us belly laugh in July - all within the walls of Ludlow’s haunted Norman castle. The Fringe Festival brings Shakespeare, comedy, dance, theatre, the Carnival and a bucket of magic to the town every year. And don’t forget the Winter Festival and Christmas Market.
The town is situated on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty and offers countless walks, hikes, climbs or meanderings into the sometimes wild, but always beautiful Shropshire countryside. There are several National Trust sites nearby, including the high rolling hills and bubbling streams of Carding Mill Valley, and plenty of woodland walks that are free to the public. Mortimer Forest overlooks the town and Forestry England maintains a range of walking trails through its thousand acre woodland - keep your eyes peeled for fallow deer and birds of prey. The connection to nature in Shropshire is palpable, and the area offers incredible scenery (and photography opportunities) in every season. Be sure not to miss out on the autumn colour, most notably from the view atop Ludlow Castle’s walls, and bring your camera to capture the misty sunrise over the town from Whitcliffe Common’s vantage point.
Ludlow is home to around 500 listed buildings, including the grade 1 listed Feather’s Hotel. Built in 1619 with a half-timbered Tudor facade and Jacobean interior, the hotel has been receiving guests for over 400 years and has become emblematic of Ludlow’s historic town centre. If you're looking for some self-catering comfort, there are plenty of beautifully modernised apartments and cottages to rent in the town centre that are perfect for exploring the area and, like the town itself, many are dog friendly.
If you're a foodie, you'll be spoilt for choice with our selection of cafes, delis and restaurants (you'll be treated to spectacular views while you eat, too). And we have a fair few pubs and bars - including Ludlow's very own brewery and distillery.
In short, Ludlow and the surrounding towns of Shropshire and Herefordshire are well worth a visit. Rain or shine, you won't be able to deny the beauty of the rolling hills and ancient woodland - and your morning coffee will probably be one of the best you've had, too. Our independent shops provide a truly unique shopping experience that you can guarantee won't be found anywhere else, and the people are charming (if I do say so myself). If I haven't sold you yet, I guess you'll just have to find out for yourself...