Ludlow

Ludlow was described by John Betjeman as "the loveliest town in England" and by Country Life as “the most vibrant small town in the Country”. It is often quoted as a perfect example of a working medieval market town – having on offer for the visitor over five hundred black and white properties, many specialist food retailers, gourmet Michelin restaurants, local farmers’ markets, antique shops and the wonderful independent shops.

Situated on the River Teme in the outstanding countryside of the Welsh Marches, Ludlow's medieval street pattern survives almost intact along with many ancient properties including a magnificent ruined castle and one of the largest parish churches in England. Modern buildings are few and far between in the town centre, whose streets are lined with medieval and Georgian buildings – over 500 are listed.

The vibrancy is kept alive by something happening most weekends but in particular there are major festivals:

Ludlow Festival
Held annually during the last week of June and the first week of July, with an open-air Shakespeare play in the Ludlow Castle grounds as its highlight. The website is: www.ludlowfestival.co.uk

Ludlow Food and Drink Festival
Held annually during the 2nd weekend of September, the largest food fair held in the UK, attracting 20,000 visitors, in the grounds of the castle. The Ludlow Marches Food and Drink wesite is: www.foodfestival.co.uk