With its outstanding surrounding countryside, incredible history and reputation for good food, a stay in Ludlow offers jaw-dropping views and a gastronomic experience. Unsurprisingly, many of our accommodation providers source their ingredients and welcome hampers locally; some even partner with local catering companies.
LGL talks to Jude Hunt, co-owner of Dinham Weir House, about her new partnership with young chef, Harry Bullock. And we spotlight two further outstanding properties where seasonal food and talented, local chefs play a starring role.
Dinham Weir House and Evatt Bullock Catering Co
Dinham Weir House is one of the best locations in Ludlow. Before being converted into luxury accommodation, it was home to Mr Underhill’s, one of the county’s most successful restaurants which held at the time, Shropshire’s only Michelin star. The new owners are prominent in the local foodie scene and have hosted many well-known chefs who stay for Ludlow’s famous Food Festival. They have recently moved to convert their beautiful Border Oak garage into a professional kitchen and have invited up-and-coming chef, Harry Bullock, to take up residence.
How do you feel about having Harry on board at Dinham Weir House, and how do you think this will impact the guests’ experience?
I’m really excited to have Harry join us in the next chapter of Dinham Weir House. We’ve been running Dinham for five years this June, and I can’t believe how quickly that’s gone. It’s been a great success so far, and we are getting busier each year. The demand for a private chef for our guests celebrating their special occasions became more frequent with every booking. Once we had discovered the local talent of Harry Bullock, he then always became the number one choice.
Not only is he a remarkable chef delivering an exquisite dining experience, but his friendly and reliable nature makes him even more special. Our guest feedback wholeheartedly agreed with this. The next step that stood out for us was to secure Harry as a resident chef onsite here at Dinham Weir House. It just made complete sense to make him part of our professional family.
What will this bring to the local area of Ludlow?
Together we aim to raise Ludlow’s profile again as a food destination. We believe Harry will bring Michelin-star standard food and service back to this brilliant, historic market town. Harry and his team always work hard to support local suppliers and producers, making this a beneficial and fulfilling venture for all. With this partnership, there will also be new opportunities for residents to enjoy this collaboration. Look out for more announcements to follow!
About Harry
Harry, a keen countryman and professional chef, runs Evatt & Bullock Co, a small, bespoke but truly dedicated food business offering private dining, food delivery and event catering, which he will continue to do from his new premises. Guests staying at Dinham Weir can book Harry with services ranging from gourmet frozen meals on arrival to an exquisite 3- or 5-course fine dining experience. Harry says that with Dinham’s culinary history, he is looking forward to putting “that jewel back in Ludlow’s crown” and hoping that the move will “launch us into the Ludlow food scene and give us much more scope to excel, grow and expand.”
Wilde Lodge and CSONS Food
Wilde Lodge sits on river Teme, surrounded by breathtaking countryside views. With its relaxed vibe, attention to detail and exceptional service, it provides an ideal space for weddings, family gatherings and big celebrations. A location this close to nature with a dining room that’s a safari tent needs a catering partnership that’s just as wholesome, creative and exceptional. And this is why the owners picked CSONS Food, to cater for all their big occasions.
CSONS was set up by four brothers who quickly established a reputation locally for great food and service when they took over the Green Café in Ludlow in 2022. Hugely popular, it quickly brought in the foodies, and as one reviewer wrote, “The food is clever – offering flavours from around the world with not an inch of pretence or showiness. The ingredients are as good as you’ll find in any restaurant and the cooking is perfectly on point. So, whether you’re a customer or someone in the trade who wants to see how it should be done, it’s hard to think of a better café in the county”.
Photo credits: Wilde Lodge
Ludlow Castle and Chapter 66
Chapter 66 focuses on classic cooking using seasonal, fresh flavours and ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Damien explains, “Our approach is very simple; support our local businesses as we grow into the future.”
The Castle’s General Manager, Gemma England, explains, “Damien brings something special with his beautiful seasonal dishes and we’re excited to be revealing some sample menus very soon. Having a catering partner that knows the venue inside and out means the day runs so smoothly and couples can sit back and enjoy their celebrations.”
Photo credits: Ludlow Castle and Chapter 66
For accommodation in and around Ludlow, visit our Let’s Go Local Directory
