Venturing just 90 minutes from Gloucester brings travelers to Ludlow, a medieval market town brimming with independent shops, intriguing landmarks, and charming cafes. The town boasts unique half-timbered buildings and a riverside setting, evoking the charm of Stratford-upon-Avon at first glance. Situated on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Ludlow provides an ideal base for walkers and visitors seeking a bustling yet picturesque destination.
During a recent weekend trip in March, a stop at the equally picturesque town of Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire provided a perfect opportunity to savor Truffles Delicatessen’s offerings, including sandwiches, enormous cheese scones, and other light snacks. Continuing the journey north to Ludlow along quaint A-roads through villages like Much Marcle and Hope-under-Dinmore, we soon arrived at Ludlow with the tower of St Laurence Church emerging above the rooftops.
The following day, a visit to the town center led us to the 11th-century Ludlow Castle, where we marveled at its impressive state and explored various “rooms.” While adult admission seemed steep at £9, the well-preserved castle offers an enriching experience, including towers with stunning countryside views, a giant wooden chair, and intriguing sculptures.
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Afterward, we ventured to Ludlow Market, brimming with diverse offerings from plants and rugs to homemade jams and French pastries. The town’s array of independent shops, including homeware stores, a chocolatier, a cheese shop, vintage boutiques, and a historic lifestyle store, Bodenhams, added to the town’s allure. Additionally, the town center offers great walking routes, such as the ‘Bread Walk’ route down to the River Teme.
For those in need of sustenance, Ludlow’s cafes provide a variety of options, though they can fill up quickly. Notable dining spots include Vaughans sandwich shop and Harp Lane Deli with their inviting outdoor seating. A detour to Ludlow Farm Shop, a multifaceted complex featuring a shop, restaurant, cafe, garden center, gallery, and gin distillery, rounded out our Ludlow experience.
If shopping isn’t your preference, the town also offers great walks and scenic views, while the nearby Ludlow Farm Shop provides a multifaceted experience with its extensive offerings.