A town with hundreds of listed buildings has been described as the "loveliest in England" by one of the country's most famed poets and is a great place for a weekend break.
Ludlow is a quaint market town in Shropshire, England, that is packed with an abnormal density of intriguing architecture from the Medieval, Tudor, and Georgian periods. Among them is a building which dates back to 1086. Ludlow Castle is a significant historical landmark which played a crucial role in English history, witnessing events such as the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War.
The town features more than 500 listed buildings by one count, with the predominantly Georgian or half-timbered structures creating the impression that you're walking through the set of a well curated and looked after period drama.
For centuries the town enjoyed great prosperity, thanks to its emergence in the 1100s as one of the country's wool trade centres. Later on in the 18th and 19th centuries it was a fashionable social hub, attracting county families who built elegant Georgian brick houses, adding to its charm. The allure lasted into the 20th century, when poet John Betjeman described it as "the loveliest town in England".
The town has some lovely walking routes (Getty Images)Today Ludlow is far more than just a long history and fine buildings. If you wander around the town you'll find a vibrant cultural scene made up of theatres, galleries, and festivals, including the Ludlow Fringe Festival and the Ludlow Food Festival, showcasing the town's artistic and culinary prowess. Ludlow has more Michelin Starred restaurants than any other town in the country, so it's a great place to choose as a culinary retreat.
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There is also a thriving town centre market that takes place multiple times a week and a busy livestock market that is held year-round on certain dates.
"Ludlow is best explored on foot. It’s compact centre is easy to stroll around and for those who enjoy a walk, the following circular route is a lovely way to see the town: from the castle, walk down the hill to the river below at Dinham Bridge (there is a nice cafe here), cross the bridge then along the river bank to Ludford Bridge and return up Broad Street (through Broadgate) to the Buttercross," writes Historic UK.
When in the town you may wish to head off on the circular Bread Walk, which starts at the castle before crossing the River Teme, where the scenic path takes you beside the water for about a mile. Stop for a drink in The Charlton Arms on the balcony overlooking the river.
The castle dates back almost 1,000 years (Getty Images/Robert Harding Worl)Fine, riverside dining can be found at CSons at The Green Cafe which serves up delicious, locally sourced food on a lovely waterside terrace.
If you grow tired of all of the beautiful scenery, delicious food and good vibes, then a trip out of the town will land you in a particularly stunning part of Shropshire, filled to the gunnels with opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and exploring the nearby Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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