Moving to Ludlow
In the first of a new property series, we look at living in Ludlow and all the information you need about moving to this small market town.
In the first of a new property series, we look at living in Ludlow and all the information you need about moving to this small market town.
Described as "The most perfect town in England" by John Betjeman, Ludlow sits perched on a cliff above the picturesque River Teme in unspoiled south Shropshire countryside.
Atop the hill is the magnificent Ludlow Castle, which dates back to around 1085, and the small market town boasts over 500 listed buildings.
See pictures of Ludlow in the gallery to your right
However, it is probably best known for it's gastronomic prowess and hosts the prestigious annual Ludlow food festival and was once the only town in England with three Michelin-starred restaurants. It still has two.
Today it's a popular tourist destination, with its many antique shops, independent bookshops, art dealers, local producers and highly-acclaimed pubs and restaurants.
Transport:
Ludlow is a rural town and is around 45 minutes drive from Shrewsbury and closer to an hour for Telford.
The station is situated just five minutes walk from the town centre and offers regular trains to Shrewsbury, Newport, Cardiff and Manchester.
There is also an effective park and ride outside the town centre to counteract the difficulties of parking in a town designed before the needs of drivers.
What they say:
@AbundantLudlow: The best thing about Ludlow would be its history, a multitude of independent shops and the quality of life.
The worst is its resistance to change and wishing to preserve itself in a mythical 'golden era'. Also, too high commercial rents = empty shops.
@pricesthebakers: The best is the abundance of independent shops and not being a 'clone' town.
The worst is the idea of some locals who think that 'new arrivals' have nothing to offer and that things must always stay the same.
The Telegraph: "Ludlow, with just 10,000 residents, is the culinary capital of Britain and the food festival success has encouraged a string of top restaurants to open, winning worldwide plaudits."
Schools
Primary: St Laurence CofE, Bitterley CofE and Orleton CofE all 'good.' Ludlow Junior School and Clee Hill both rated as 'satisfactory.'
Secondary: Ludlow Church of England – Mixed – Rated as 'good' – Particularly good in the specialist technology and sports subjects
Property:
The average house price paid in Ludlow over the last three years was £221,657. This is down 3.94% from last year.
Ludlow has an unusually strong housing market, aided by the council's tough planning regime which ensures few new homes can be built.
The is high demand for property and the large number of listed buildings doesn't put people off.
See more property price information here.
Search for a property:
Links:
Ludlow visitor information
Ludlow news
The Telegraph property pages on Ludlow
Shropshire tourism - Ludlow
Ludlow Castle
Ludlow food festival