Ludlow Castle is a ruined medieval fortification in the town of the same name in the English county of Shropshire, standing on a promontory overlooking the River Teme. The castle was probably founded by Walter de Lacy after the Norman conquest and was one of the first stone castles to be built in England.
Welcome to Ludlow Castle, one of the finest medieval ruins in England. Set in the glorious Shropshire countryside at the heart of the superb, bustling black & white market town of Ludlow. 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
Access around the Castle grounds
Ludlow Castle is an outdoor ruin and whilst we are pushchair and wheelchair friendly there will be some areas of the Castle that are inaccessible. The surface areas are cobbles, grass and chippings. The ground in the inner bailey is of varying levels and can be difficult to navigate. The majority of rooms and towers are not easy, however, you can get around the judges lodgings and take in the magnificent fireplaces which are repeated in other rooms. Interpretation boards are accessible.
Disabled toilets can be found in the Shop, Outer area and Tea Rooms
Baby changing facilities are provided in the Tea Rooms
We welcome dogs in the Castle and the Tea Room’s Courtyard as long as they are kept on a lead. You will find bowls of water around to ensure your four legged friends are well cared for during your visit.
