Ludlow is a picturesque market town in the verdant county of Shropshire, close to the border of England and Wales. A historic town with spellbinding charm, its streets are lined with Medieval, Tudor, and Georgian buildings that parade the various chapters of its yesteryears, including the famous Ludlow Castle. A bustling market town with a vibrant local community, it’s an enchanting destination for luxury escapes, especially when paired with one of the town’s festivals and events.
Taking place throughout the year, Ludlow’s calendar of festivals, fayres and events ensures there’s always something to look forward to. With something for all generations, they span the seasons in a flurry of food and festivities, commencing with the much-awaited Ludlow May Fair and culminating in the atmospheric Winter Festival.
Embark on a luxury retreat to Shropshire and uncover our guide to some of the best festivals in Ludlow this year, ready to plot unforgettable adventures and cherished moments.
Ludlow May Fair
30th April - 4th May 2026
Held on the first bank holiday weekend in May every year, the Ludlow May Fair is a family-friendly event in the heart of the town. Residing within Ludlow’s historic market square and at the foot of Ludlow Castle, this event (protected by Royal Charter) floods the town centre with activity and colour. As well as its culinary offerings, the festival attracts all with a wide array of rides and amusements, the perfect way to entertain the children before returning to relax in your luxurious Boutique Retreat.
Ludlow Spring Festival
8th - 10th May 2026
Ludlow Spring Festival is a community-wide event that brings together locals and visitors alike. Promising an eclectic line-up of music, artists, and exhibitors from around the county and beyond, it offers a wonderful way to celebrate the spring season. Particularly enticing, over 60 food producers add their own unique twist to the festival, selling local artisan produce from farm-fresh vegetables and hedgerow honey to Shropshire ice cream. Running in parallel, the Marches Transport Festival also takes place on the same weekend, where more than 150 stunning classic cars are displayed in the grounds of the castle.
Ludlow Piano Festival
20th - 24th May 2026
With several days of piano concerts and events across three different venues in the town, all within a hundred metres of each other, Ludlow Piano Festival appeals to music-lovers of all ages. Beginning with a celebrity concert, it promises solo concerts from actors, presenters, comedians and, of course, trained pianists for unforgettable music moments. Venues include St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, and Palmers Hall, all of which are in close reach of the town’s cafés, restaurants, and bars for post-entertainment refreshment.
Ludlow Green Festival
12th July 2026
Ludlow Green Festival is an annual event that shines a light on the natural world. A voice for the planet and a celebration of sustainability, the event is held in Market Square and beckons with unique and environmentally-friendly activities for all generations. From interactive workshops to arts and crafts, and from climate question time to guided walks, there is something to inspire everyone. Adding further temptation, a plethora of food stalls awaits with delectable treats, such as Ludlow beers, indulgent brownies, international dishes, and locally-made ice cream.
Live at Ludlow Castle
16th - 19th, 23rd - 26th July 2025
For the lovers of music, Live at Ludlow Castle proposes a series of soul-stirring concerts this summer. Commencing on Thursday 16th July, this musical array features a collection of celebrated artists and bands and encompasses a variety of sounds, from iconic Britpop to euphonious electronica to rock royalty and more. Taking to the stage this year, anticipate mesmeric performances from Snow Patrol, Paul Weller, The Human League, Supergrass, Tom Grennan, Richard Ashcroft, and more. Make sure you secure your tickets well in advance to avoid missing out.
Magnalonga
9th August 2026
Inspired by Ludlow’s twin town of San Pietro in Cariano, Italy, Magnalonga has been running for two decades and provides a wonderful fusion of culture and cuisine. Designed around a dog-friendly, 8-mile walk which starts and finishes in Ludlow, the aim of the day is to encourage people to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and food of the region. During the walk, you can pause regularly along the way to admire the stunning countryside views and stop off for food and drink, mostly comprised of local ingredients from Ludlow and the Welsh Marches. The route itself involves some steep hills, stiles, and uneven tracks, but is well worth the effort if you can - especially for the ticketed meals which provide flavoursome incentive as you go.
Ludlow History Festival
21st - 30th August 2026
Ready to uncover the stories of Ludlow's yesteryears? Taking place in August, Ludlow History Festival promises a fascinating celebration of the events that have paved the way for the town you see today. With talks, storytelling, comedy events, music performances, theatre and more, all manner of mediums await to entertain and enthral from various locations across the town. For an immersive experience, tours and walks offer a unique way to retrace the passage of time and reveal some of the area's most well-known stories and secret tales.
Ludlow Food Festival
11th - 13th September 2026
The market town of Ludlow is well-known for its talented local producers and award-winning local restaurants. Making sure epicureans have ample to look forward to, the town hosts the dedicated Ludlow Food Festival in September each year. Held both inside Ludlow Castle and outside across its Market Square, it features more than 180 food and drink stalls showcasing the best local produce and food. As well as the chance to sample a heavenly variety of local fare, you can also take part in food masterclasses, feasts, workshops and fire cooking sessions.
Ludlow Winter Festival
27th - 29th November 2026
Ludlow Winter Festival is one of the county’s most eagerly anticipated events in the run up to Christmas. Transforming the town’s historic market square into an enchanting wonderland, this family-friendly celebration is one that inspires festive reveries in all those who visit. Lighting up the square is the annual Christmas lights switch-on, followed by the opening of Ludlow’s Christmas market. From family lantern making workshops and gift shopping to the season’s inaugural mulled wine, there’s ample to spark the Christmas spirit. Later, in December, is Ludlow's Christmas Market, taking place on Thursday 3rd December 2026.
Ludlow Fringe Festival
Dates TBC
Spanning the summer months of June and July, Ludlow’s Fringe Festival is one of the best events in the region’s calendar. Starting with the Ludlow Carnival, which each year adopts a new theme for its parade and floats, this independent arts, community, and culture festival has become a well-known name on the circuit. Followed by hundreds of events throughout the town, spectators and participators alike can expect brilliant music, dance, comedy theatre performances and more to grip and enthral. With famous names such as Dame Judy Dench, Jasper Carrot and Alistair McGowan gracing previous festivals, this year's festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in the performing and visual arts and seeking sure-fire entertainment.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Shropshire.
