The UK’s prettiest Christmas shopping town that many also say is the loveliest town in England
- UK Hidden Gems

- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Nestled between Wales on one side and Birmingham about an hour away on the other, this place was once described by poet John Betjeman as the loveliest town in England.
With more than 500 listed buildings and more Michelin starred restaurants than anywhere else in Britain, it is easy to see why this riverside town along the Teme is so well loved.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it is no surprise that it was named one of the UK’s prettiest towns for Christmas shopping in 2023.
This medieval market town in Shropshire is one of England’s most charming spots, offering plenty for visitors to enjoy.
A market has been held outside Ludlow Castle since at least 1086, with a mix of stalls that make a brilliant place to begin your festive shopping.
Sitting high on a cliff above the River Teme, Ludlow Castle is busy all year round, hosting festivals such as the Medieval Christmas Fayre. During the event, visitors can buy local crafts, historic style gifts, tasty treats and drinks.
The town’s strong food culture and many independent shops, pubs and restaurants make it a special place to explore or call home.
The castle has even welcomed famous artists for concerts, including Anne Marie, Kaiser Chiefs, Bastille, Rag n Bone Man, Nile Rodgers and Chic.
The striking castle ruins, which date back to around 1086, stand within the oldest part of Ludlow. More buildings were added over the next two hundred years, making it one of the most fascinating castles in the Marches, proudly overlooking the River Teme.
With features from the Norman, Medieval and Tudor periods, Ludlow Castle is open to visitors from 10am to 4pm every day, except Christmas Day and weekdays during December and January.
With an average house price of £255,091 over the last year, Ludlow has become increasingly popular.
It offers a lively community with good schools and handy local services, all set within an Area of Natural Beauty that is perfect for cyclists, walkers and anyone who loves the outdoors.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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