Ludlow Castle enjoys a busy year as visitors choose days out closer to home

Ludlow Castle has been enjoying a strong year, with visitors increasingly looking closer to home for days out and short breaks. The castle reported that footfall over Easter was up compared with 2025, helped by an Easter egg hunt that drew children and grown-ups alike.

General manager Gemma England said the team was really encouraged by the level of interest. "Day visits are such an important part of what we offer, whether it's families visiting during the holidays or people enjoying a spontaneous day out in Ludlow," she said.

The castle describes itself as one of the finest medieval ruins in England. It stands on high ground above the River Teme and in the Middle Ages was a crucial stronghold for control of the Welsh Borders, at times serving as the seat of English government in Wales.

Visitors can walk the grounds and explore the lodgings once used by kings, queens, princes, judges and the nobility, a glimpse into medieval and Tudor life. The views across the Shropshire countryside from the walls are a highlight in any season.

The Earls of Powis began renting the castle from the Crown in 1772 and bought the ruined structure in 1811. It has passed down through the family ever since and is now owned by the Trustees of the Powis Castle Estate. Today it is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, open to the public.

The castle also plays its part in the life of the town. Gemma England pointed out that many visitors go on to explore Ludlow's independent shops, cafes and restaurants, bringing real benefit to the local economy.

That fits a wider picture for the county. Mark Hooper of Visit Shropshire said the visitor economy passed the £1 billion mark for the first time, with more than 10.6 million visitors, and that Shropshire is establishing itself as one of the UK's fastest growing rural destinations.

With autumn colour on the hills and the town's market and food scene on the doorstep, a visit to the castle makes a fine centrepiece for a day in Ludlow.

Ludlow Castle is in the centre of Ludlow. Opening times, tickets and events are listed at ludlowcastle.com.