Are you a food lover looking for a new adventure? Look no further than Ludlow’s annual food festival! This small town in Shropshire, England may not be a culinary capital, but it sure knows how to put on a festival. From savory pies to sweet desserts, the flavors of Ludlow will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. As a seasoned food festival goer, I have put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the festival and make the most of your experience. In this guide, you will find insider tips on the must-try dishes, the best vendors, and how to avoid the crowds. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun day out or a foodie traveler exploring new flavors, Ludlow’s food festival is not to be missed. So grab your appetites and let’s savor the flavors of Ludlow together!

History of Ludlow’s food festival

Ludlow’s food festival has been running for over 20 years and has established itself as one of the best food festivals in the UK. The festival started in 1995 as a way to showcase the local food and drink of the area. Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity and size, attracting visitors from all over the UK and beyond.

The festival is held in the historic town of Ludlow, which is known for its stunning castle, medieval buildings, and picturesque streets. The festival takes place every September and lasts for three days. During this time, the town comes alive with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live music.

Ludlow’s food festival has won numerous awards, including the “Best Food Festival in the UK” award at the British Travel Awards. The festival is a celebration of the local food and drink of the area, and it’s a great opportunity to try something new and support local businesses.

What to expect at the food festival

Ludlow’s food festival is a feast for the senses. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the smell of sizzling sausages, freshly baked bread, and sweet treats. The festival is spread out across the town, with food stalls lining the streets and a main marquee in the castle grounds.

The festival offers a wide variety of food and drink, with everything from artisan cheeses and cured meats to homemade cakes and pastries. You’ll find traditional British dishes, as well as international cuisine, such as Thai curries and Spanish paella.

In addition to the food stalls, there are also cooking demonstrations by local chefs, workshops, and talks on food-related topics. You can learn how to make your own bread, discover the history of local produce, or watch a celebrity chef whip up a gourmet meal.

The must-try dishes at Ludlow’s food festival

With so much food on offer, it can be overwhelming to decide what to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes at Ludlow’s food festival:

  • Ludlow Sausages: These sausages are a local specialty and are made using traditional methods. They’re bursting with flavor and are a must-try for any meat lover.
  • Pork Pies: Another local specialty, pork pies are a staple of British cuisine. The ones at Ludlow’s food festival are particularly delicious, with a crisp pastry and juicy filling.
  • Fudge: For those with a sweet tooth, the fudge at Ludlow’s food festival is not to be missed. There are a variety of flavors to choose from, including chocolate, vanilla, and salted caramel.
  • Real Ale: No food festival is complete without a good drink, and Ludlow’s food festival has plenty of options. The real ale is a particular highlight, with a range of local and national brews on offer.

Activities and entertainment at the food festival

Ludlow’s food festival is not just about the food. There are also plenty of activities and entertainment to keep you busy throughout the day. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Live Music: There are several stages throughout the festival, featuring a variety of live music acts. From jazz bands to folk singers, there’s something for everyone.
  • Kids’ Activities: If you’re bringing the little ones, there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained. There are face painting stalls, puppet shows, and even a mini-farm where they can meet some furry friends.
  • Workshops: If you’re looking to learn a new skill, there are several workshops on offer. You can learn how to make your own cheese, brew your own beer, or even try your hand at pottery.

Tips for attending Ludlow’s food festival

To make the most of your experience at Ludlow’s food festival, here are some insider tips:

  • Arrive early: The festival gets busy quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds.
  • Bring cash: While some vendors may accept card payments, it’s best to bring cash as some may not have card machines.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The festival is spread out across the town, so you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Plan your route: With so many food stalls to choose from, it can be overwhelming. Plan your route beforehand to make sure you don’t miss anything.
  • Book accommodation early: If you’re traveling from out of town, make sure you book your accommodation early as it fills up quickly.

Where to stay during the food festival

If you’re planning on staying overnight in Ludlow, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Feathers Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Ludlow and offers luxurious rooms and excellent dining.
  • The Bull Hotel: This 16th-century coaching inn has been beautifully restored and offers comfortable rooms and a cozy bar.
  • The Clive Restaurant with Rooms: This boutique hotel is located just outside of Ludlow and offers stylish rooms and an award-winning restaurant.

Conclusion: why Ludlow’s food festival is a must-visit for foodies

Ludlow’s food festival is a must-visit for foodies. With its wide variety of food and drink, live music, and activities, there’s something for everyone. The festival is a celebration of the local food and drink of the area, and it’s a great opportunity to try something new and support local businesses. So if you’re looking for a fun day out or a foodie adventure, make sure you add Ludlow’s food festival to your list. You won’t be disappointed!