Ludlow Castle, the finest of medieval ruined castles, set in glorious Shropshire countryside, at the heart of this superb, bustling black & white market town.
Walk through the Castle grounds and see the ancient houses of kings, queens, princes, judges and the nobility - a glimpse into the lifestyle of medieval society.
The Castle, firstly a Norman Fortress and extended over the centuries to become a fortified Royal Palace, has ensured Ludlow's place in English history - originally built to hold back unconquered Welsh, passing through generations of the de Lacy and Mortimer families to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York. It became Crown property in 1461 and remained a royal castle for the next 350 years, during which time the Council of the Marches was formed with responsibility for the Government of Wales and the border counties. 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, who have arrested further decline, and allowed this magnificent historical monument to be open to the public. Today the Castle is the home to Ludlow's major festivals throughout the year and open for all to enjoy.
Please look through our website to find out more about the fascinating history of this picturesque, medieval ruin.
Other Facilities Within Ludlow Castle
Castle House - our magnificent restoration project invites you to sample the Castle Tea Room.
Other facilities available in Castle House are Civil Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions, Conferences and the Castle House Lodgings castle accommodation.
Ludlow Castle is also the setting for regular events, markets, fayres and concerts.
The Castle welcomes visitors from all over the world and is open almost all year round, see Admissions for details.
Ludlow Castle is the property of the Earl of Powis and the Trustees of the Powis Castle Estate.
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