L IVELY LUDLOW
GOURMET DELIGHTS, HISTORICAL SITES AND SHOPS GALORE DID YOU KNOW?
At the start of this millennium three Ludlow restaurants boasted Michelin stars, the greatest gourmet hot spot outside of London.
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Just over the county border sits one of Shropshire’s jewels, Ludlow, a beautiful market town with a most magnificent castle. Visitors to this historic town are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning an outing. A visit to the stunning castle has to be included but how to fit in all of those wonderful shops and eateries as well? There’s also stunning architecture to admire and the surrounding countryside isn’t too shabby either, a real walker’s paradise.
With its roots firmly in medieval times, the town is dominated by the 11th century castle which sits rather majestically on a cliff above the River Teme and is at the heart of the black and white town centre.
Open to the public, Ludlow Castle is considered to be one of the finest medieval ruins in England. Walk through the castle grounds and see the ancient houses of kings, queens, princes, judges and the nobility – a real glimpse into the lifestyle of medieval society. It has had many manifestations - a Norman fortress holding back the Welsh, a fortified Royal Palace and a Royal Castle before finally falling into disrepair in the late 1600s. Since 1811 the castle has been owned by the Earls of Powis, who have stopped further decline and allowed this magnificent historical monument to open to the public. There are even three self-catering apartments available for short breaks within the castle walls and Castle House is a popular choice as a wedding venue too.
Aside from its castle, Ludlow is perhaps next best known for its culinary excellence. Taking advantage of the abundance of food production from both Shropshire and the neighbouring counties, the quality of the eateries in the town is second to none. Many top chefs have been attracted to the town, resulting in many accolades over the years.
The town is also famed for its food festival which takes place in September each year both in the castle grounds and throughout
the town, attracting foodies from all over the country. Dozens of food and drinks producers showcase their wares, with samples and tasting and of course the chance to purchase. One of the highlights of the event is the renowned sausage trail when Saturday visitors are invited to visit the town’s many butchers, tasting and voting for their favourite sausage.
This year the event takes place between Friday, September 10 and Sunday, 12th from 10am – 6.30pm daily. For further details visit
www.foodfestival.co.uk
The town is also home to many and varied independent shops. Artisan and specialist food and drink shops abound of course, alongside arts and antiques, fashion and jewellery, gifts and handbags, interiors and curios - there really is something for everyone.
After all these gourmet delights, something a little more energetic might be in order and the town is a great base for both walking and cycling, sitting on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with the hills, valleys and forests of The Marches all waiting to be explored. Ludlow also offers gentler walking opportunities into the surrounding countryside and the Shropshire Wildlife Trust owned Whitcliffe Common, offers wonderful, panoramic views and a delightful walk alongside the river. The racecourse also offers an active card of race meetings too for those who enjoying watching horse racing.
LIVE24-SEVEN.COM
RETAI L THERAPY FOCUS ON LUDLOW
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