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Ledbury is perhaps most famous as the birthplace of the renowned poet John Masefield, who served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1930 to 1967. His legacy lives on in the town, through the John Masefield Society, dedicated to promoting his work and keeping his memory alive. It’s a fitting tribute to a man whose words have left an indelible mark on English literature.
Capturing the modern day word, the annual Ledbury Poetry Festival’s ten-day event in July transforms the town into a haven for wordsmiths from all over the country, attracting everyone from established names to rising stars, all eager to share their love of poetry.
town’s Tudor heritage is unmistakable. Its iconic black-and-white timber-framed buildings line the High Street and the Homend to create a distinctive and characterful atmosphere that is uniquely Ledbury. They are living monuments to the town’s past, each one with its own story to tell.
HISTORY AND HERITAGE Strolling through the picturesque, cobbled streets, like the much-photographed Church Lane, you’ll discover treasures like the Heritage Museum and the mysterious Painted Room, with its 16th- century frescoes by an unknown artisan. The Butchers Row House Folk Museum offers a window into a bygone life, housing everything from reproduction helmets worn in the Battle of Ledbury (1645), to Victorian artifacts and costumes and various folk curiosities.
At the top of this street is St. Michael and All Angels Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture with its towering spire and intricate stonework. Daily tower tours to learn the story of its historic and recently restored bells can be made when the church is open.
And then there’s the Market House, a majestic Grade 1 listed building that took 50 years to build, and which serves as the heart of the town’s bustling weekly Charter markets on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Browse stalls brimming with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other delights, all set against the backdrop of Ledbury’s rich architecture.
Opposite see St Katherine’s Masters House circa 1482, a rare surviving example of a hospital complex, recently renovated and now the home of Ledbury’s new Library.
CULTURE AND EVENTS Ledbury loves an event and embraces its neighbouring villages in several annual community occasions. Look out for February’s Big Breakfast weekend, when up to 20 foodie destinations cook up a variety of healthy and indulgent starts to the day.
June sees the county’s largest garden weekend event with Hellens Garden Festival at the historic manor house and grounds in Much Marcle, one of the oldest dwellings in England. Witness the charm of Marcle Steam Rally in July where vintage engines chug away for enthusiasts to admire and perhaps take in iconic Westons Cider Mill for a tour while you’re in the village.
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REAL RETAIL Ledbury’s true magic, however, lies in its hidden corners, the narrow mews and side streets that invite exploration. Every few yards along the High Street, you’ll find intriguing independent shops, cosy eateries, and charming galleries, many of them family-run. Archways lead to artisan chocolatiers, boutiques, gorgeous interior design and antique venues, and quirky indie traders for quality unique finds. It’s not uncommon to meet someone who came to Ledbury for a visit, fell in love with its charm, and decided to stay and make a whole new career on its High Street.
This is a town that casts a spell, one that lingers long after you’ve left, making you want to return time and time again.
Discover more about Ledbury, what’s on when and other Herefordshire market towns on
www.eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk
August sees the annual Ledbury Carnival where the whole town puts on special events around it, and in autumn the fringes celebrate Big Apple weekend; a celebration of Herefordshire’s standing as the country’s most prolific apple orchard region and cider heritage.
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AROUND THE COUNTI E S FOCUS ON L EDBURY
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