Welcome to Ludlow, one of the most beautiful towns in the heart of Shropshire. We’re thrilled that you’re holidaying with us at Moonrise Lodges and we’d like to share some of the best places to visit during your time here. Whether you’re interested in history, culture or food, there’s something for everyone in Ludlow.
On your way to Ludlow, which will take about 45 mins to drive to from the lodges, you’ll pass Stokesay Castle, one of the finest and best-preserved medieval fortified manor houses in England. The castle is located just a few miles from Ludlow and is worth a visit for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens and surrounding countryside. You can explore the castle’s history and even take a guided tour of the interior.
https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stokesay-castle/
Upon arriving in Ludlow you’ll need to know where to park, so let’s talk about parking! There are several car parks in Ludlow, including Castle Street, Smithfield, Upper Galdeford and Lower Galdeford. We recommend parking at Castle Street as it’s the most convenient if you plan on visiting Ludlow Castle.
Our first stop is Ludlow Castle, one of the most iconic and well-preserved castles in England. The castle is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, and you can explore the castle’s history, architecture and beautiful views. Be sure to check out the Great Hall, which was built in the 14th century, and the Round Chapel, which was built in the 12th century. You can also climb the castle’s towers for a panoramic view of the town and Shropshire’s stunning countryside.
After your visit to the castle, it’s time for lunch. We recommend The Green Cafe, a popular cafe and restaurant located in the town centre. The cafe serves fresh and healthy food, allowing you to refuel and relax – an essential part of any holiday I think! We recommend their homemade soups, salads and sandwiches, all made with fresh local ingredients.
After lunch, take a stroll around St. Laurence’s church, a beautiful medieval church that dates back to the 12th century. The church is known for its striking architecture, impressive stained glass windows and beautiful carvings. The church is open every day for visitors and it’s free to enter.
If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to visit The Ludlow Brewing Company, located in the town centre. The brewery produces a range of cask ales, craft beers and lagers using local ingredients and traditional brewing methods. You can take a brewery tour, enjoy a tasting session or simply relax in the brewery’s taproom and sample their delicious beers. A holiday must!
https://theludlowbrewingcompany.co.uk
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Mortimer Forest is a must-visit destination in Ludlow. The forest covers over 1,000 hectares and is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boar, red deer and rare birds. There are several walking and cycling trails in the forest, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Be sure to check out the prominent landmark, High Vinnalls, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Shropshire countryside.
https://www.forestryengland.uk/mortimer-forest
Ludlow’s market days are an event in themselves. On Mondays, the town hosts the weekly market, offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisan crafts, antiques and more. On Fridays and Saturdays, the market is held on the Ludlow Castle grounds, where you can sample local delicacies, attend cooking demonstrations and browse the stalls for unique holiday souvenirs.
If you’re visiting Ludlow during racing season, be sure to check out Ludlow Racecourse. The racecourse hosts several jump racing events throughout the year, known for its challenging track and stunning scenery. Check their website for ticket prices and availability.
https://ludlowracecourse.co.uk/
End your day with dinner at The Charlton Arms, a charming riverside pub and restaurant that offers traditional English cuisine with a modern twist. The menu includes locally sourced ingredients and classic dishes like steak and ale pie, fish and chips and hearty soups. Plus, the pub has a range of local ales, ciders and other drinks to choose from.
https://www.thecharltonarms.co.uk/
We hope this guide to a day out in Ludlow has inspired you to explore everything that this charming town has to offer. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its delicious food and lively markets, Ludlow is the perfect destination for a day trip whilst staying at Moonrise Lodges. Find out more about us here. Book your holiday with us today and experience all that Ludlow has to offer for yourself.