for history buffs

We are very excited to hear that the jewel in our crown, Ludlow Castle, will reopen on 12th April. Opening times will be 10am to 5pm and the Castle will be operating a one-way system for you to wander around the castle grounds. A fantastic spot to immerse yourself in medieval history, take Instagram-worthy photos and let the kids’ imagination run wild for a couple of hours.

Town tours – Roger Furniss, a town resident for over 40 years, has been organising guided tours of Ludlow’s medieval centre for more than 20 years. He’s just announced the tours will be available from 29th March. However, you will need to pre-book by contacting Roger Furniss on 01584 874205 or via email . Cost is £5 per person with children free and a minimum charge of £20. All monies to Ludlow Historical Research Group.

Virtual talks – Ludlow Museum at the Buttercross present Katherine of Arago, a talk by SunJester on behalf of Ludlow Museum on Thursday, 15 April 2021 from 7.30pm. A chance for a complicated, passionate and determined woman to be seen in her own spotlight. For further information on joining the zoom talk please email Kate Adams.

NT Berrington Hall and NT Croft Castle are welcoming both pre-booked and walk-in visitors. Booking is still advised, especially on weekends and bank holidays but we are happy to admit walk-in visitors where there is space to do so.

The parkland, grounds, walks and Field of Play at NT Attingham Park are open to enjoy in line with government guidance. You’ll need to book tickets online (available up to an hour before visiting) or by calling 03442 491 895

Hampton Court Castle gardens and grounds will reopen with the exception of the Maze and the Gothic Tower. Covid-19 precautions will be in place so that social distancing can be maintained. The cafe will be offering a limited menu for takeaway only. The gift shop will remain closed and Castle Tours will not be available to visitors initially.

Virtual talk – join the Blist Hill Book Club each month as they read a range of historical fiction books. On Monday, 5 April from 7.30pm the chosen book is The Burning Chambers by Kate Mosse for country house lovers.

for adventure seekers

Oaker Wood reopens on 1 April for groups of up to 6 people from different households, or 2 households. Oaker Wood is a covid-safe site and your group will not mix with any other groups. Activities perfect for family adventures or small groups include: Quad Trekking, High Ropes Adrenalin, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Laser Clay Shooting, Paintball and Bubble Adventures

SUP Shrewsbury are now taking bookings from the 30 March 2021. Paddleboard hire and paddleboard lessons are available on the beautiful stretch of the River Severn in Shrewsbury for up to 6 people or two different households.

Further north of the county, Alderford Lake in Whitchurch boasts over 14 acres of water and is home to many water-based activities. Open water swimming coaching, paddle boarding, kayaking and the climbing wall are all available from 29 March and the water park reopens on 12 April.

John Harris has compiled over 50 walks in and around Ludlow with easy to download guides and maps. Even well-seasoned Ludlow walkers may find a new route from this fantastic selection.

You may not be able to go on African safari but you can still go wild at West Midland Safari Park which reopens on 12th April. Please note indoor animal exhibits including Lorikeet Landing, Reptile House and Aquarium will remain closed until further notice.

for foodies

Ludlow market trades every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; and most Thursdays and Sundays throughout the year.

The Local Produce Market is held every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Lots of friendly smiles behind the masks. Make a small producer very happy and shop local.

for fashionistas

We’ve had a whole year to sort out our wardrobe so we are definitely ready for ‘out with the old and in with the new’. Whether you’re looking to donate or want to rummage around for new bargains, we’ve got a number of charity shops in Ludlow:

Sue Ryder taking donations from 8 April, Cancer Research from 6-9 April

Blue Cross, Hope House, Oxfam & Cancer Research all opening 12 April

We’re also lucky to have two unique stores which specialise in vintage and designer fashion, 55 Mill Street and Expensive Mistakes.

And If you’re looking for something new, have a mosey around our local independents, Bodenhams, View Clothing and Eclectica.

for gardeners

Yes, it’s that time of year when it’s not just inside the house that needs a good spring clean. Our gardens, window boxes and allotments are shouting out for some much needed TLC and it’s time to start planning your annual crop of veg and summer blooms. Ludlow’s Incredible Edible seed and plant swap is back up and running with lots of unusual varieties of veg and flower seeds. The swap is open to everyone and the team can even post seeds out to those who live a bit further away. No seeds to swap? No problem. A suggested donation of 50p per packet instead is always welcome.

For garden tools, accessories, more plants and seeds, you can also try Ludlow Homecare and Ludlow Plant Centre.