Top Five Things To Do In Ludlow

Famous for local produce, festivals and markets, Ludlow is a beautiful historic town located only two miles away from our Ludlow Touring Park.

We have put together our recommendations for the top five things to do in Ludlow to help you plan the itinerary for your next caravan holiday in Shropshire!

Step Back in Time

With a recorded history dating back to 1086, and now home to over 500 listed buildings, Ludlow has a rich and fascinating history waiting to be explored.

Visit Ludlow Castle, the centrepiece of the town and one of the finest medieval ruins in England. Originally a Norman Fortress before becoming a Royal Castle for 350 years, discover the history of those who have lived and died in the castle, from the Tudor Prince Arthur, son of Henry VII, to the de Lacy family who held Lordship until the 13th Century.

Wander through the town and feel transported back in time amongst the beautiful buildings that offer a snapshot of different periods of history.

Perhaps you will spot Catherine of Aragon's ghost, said to haunt the iconic Castle Lodge building. Or maybe you will choose to dine at the beautiful Feathers Hotel, just as our ancestors have done since 1670, with its impressive black and white timber facade. Or you could marvel at the gorgeous stained glass windows of St Laurence Church, described as the "cathedral of the Marches", and listen out for the bells of the church that ring four times a day with a different tune for each day of the week!

Sample Delicious Food and Drink

Ludlow is famous for its tasty treats and delicious drinks, and you will find plenty of places to dine, drink and sample dishes made from locally sourced produce.

Explore traditional retailers offering high-quality produce, such as three family-owned butchers, bakers such as Price's who use slow-rising dough for their breads, the Mousetrap Cheese Shop, or Chocolate Gourmet for those with a sweet tooth.

The Ludlow Farm Shop is also a fantastic option if you're looking to fill your pantry! With around half of the produce available made on-site farmed from their very own 6,500-acre farm, they pride themselves on locally produced, delicious food such as chocolate, pastries, chutneys or cake.

Head to the town square and discover the many markets of Ludlow, which have been a staple of the town for over 900 years. Visit the Farmers' Market, held every second and fourth Thursday, or peruse the regular markets held every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Whether you are picking up new and scrumptious additions for your kitchen, dining out in one of the many independent restaurants, or visiting a food festival (more on those later), any foodie will be spoilt for choice in Ludlow.

Discover Panoramic Views

Located only a stone's throw away from the Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Ludlow is surrounded by beautiful views of the Shropshire countryside.

For panoramic views of the town and miles beyond, the bell tower at St Laurence is a must-do. Climb the 201 stairs of the spiral staircase, and be rewarded with breathtaking views at the top of this 135-foot tower.

For a gentler climb, head to Whitcliffe Common and take a scenic walk up to the grassland at the top where you will find stunning views of Ludlow Castle and the River Teme. 

With wooded slopes and footpaths to take you on a variety of trails, this is a fantastic way to take in the beauty of Ludlow.

Get that Festival Feeling

Held in the town for nearly 30 years and thought to be the first-ever successful food and drink festival in the UK, Ludlow Food Festival is the highlight of the town's yearly calendar and attracts thousands of visitors from around the country and beyond.

Located in Ludlow Castle and with venues throughout the town, the festival celebrates local produce from the Marches. With workshops and demonstrations, plus the opportunity to sample some delicious treats, from cheese and cider to truffles and tea, there is something for everyone.

For 2023, the festival will be held on Friday 8th, Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th of September.

If you still fancy more festival fun in Ludlow, check out the Spring Festival held on Friday 12th, Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th May at the Ludlow Rugby Club and discover over 60 food and drink exhibitors plus live music and more!

Or if walking is more your thing, why not try the Magnalonga on Sunday 13th August? Starting at the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, follow a walking route across beautiful Shropshire countryside, whilst stopping for tasty treats at food and drink stalls along the way. 

Take a look at our blog post for a rundown of the key events for Ludlow in 2023!

Find a Unique Treasure

With independent shops galore to be found amongst the streets of Ludlow, make sure to take some time to do some shopping and find that perfect souvenir to take home.

From Castle Bookshops, the oldest bookshop in Shropshire where you will find books of all genres alongside artist materials, to the newest independent shop, At Home, offering homewares and gifts with a focus on sustainable living, there is something for everyone.

Check out Holloway's Period House Shop for handmade homewares and furniture, as well as a lighting showroom to bring style to your ceiling!

For more furniture, Ludlow Vintage stock carefully conserved 20th-century pieces, as well as ceramics, home decor and art glass.

Or if you want to shop a bit of everything, Silver Pear stock over 12,000 products across the two floors of their store. From home and garden to clothing and accessories, discover contemporary brands and unique products with a focus on design. 

For your next caravan holiday in Shropshire, why not visit Ludlow? Book a stay at our Ludlow Touring Park and plan your trip to this beautiful and historic market town.

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