Ludlow Castle
Set in the glorious Shropshire countryside at the heart of the market town of Ludlow, the romantic ruins of Ludlow Castle began life in the late 11th century.
It started as a Norman Fortress originally built to hold back unconquered Welsh.
The castle then passed through generations of the de Lacy and Mortimer families to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York.
In 1461 it became Crown property and remained a royal castle for the next 350 years.
Abandoned in 1689 the castle quickly fell into ruin, described as ‘the very perfection of decay’ by Daniel Defoe
Since 1811 the castle has been owned by the Earls of Powis. They allowed this magnificent historical monument to be open to the public.
Walking
Ludlow, with a majestic church, castle ruins, rivers and bridges and around 500 listed buildings, is one of the most picturesque towns in England.
It is an ideal base for walking and walkers wishing to explore the Shropshire Hills.
A short 3,5-mile circular will take you through this historic town. This walk takes in all the highlights such as the castle and Ludlow Market.
Or head towards Mortimer Forest. From the castle a 4-mile circular will take you to the forest and back again with a steady climb up to 870 feet above sea level.
Mortimer Trail
This 30-mile (48Km) route begins in the Mortimer forest above Ludlow and its castle.
It progresses towards the Saxon town of Kington, meandering along the ridges of the north Herefordshire hills and deep valleys.
The Mortimer Trail takes you through forests and woods, along leafy river banks and past Celtic hill forts and medieval castles.
Enjoy great views to the Cotswolds to the south, the Malvern’s and Clee Hills to the east, the Shropshire hills to the north and spectacular views into Mid Wales in the west.
Cool Places to Explore
Corvedale | Brown Clee Hill | Clun Valley | Stokesay Castle | Carding Mill Valley & the Long Mynd | Ludlow Farmshop | Clun Castle.
