From 1850 a circus would come to Ludlow each year and elephants and camels would be paraded down the High Street to the amazement and delight of spectators. This picture is from the 2020 book Ludlow At Leisure by Derek Beattie. Date is claimed to be about 1895, although perhaps it is in fact Edwardian (based on some of the fashions.) The book credits the picture to Shropshire Museum Service. Picture was shared by publishers Merlin Unwinplaceholder image
From 1850 a circus would come to Ludlow each year and elephants and camels would be paraded down the High Street to the amazement and delight of spectators. This picture is from the 2020 book Ludlow At Leisure by Derek Beattie. Date is claimed to be about 1895, although perhaps it is in fact Edwardian (based on some of the fashions.) The book credits the picture to Shropshire Museum Service. Picture was shared by publishers Merlin Unwin | Local Library

17 nostalgic photos that perfectly capture the spirit of Shropshire's 'loveliest town'

By Mimi Ibrahim
Published 24th May 2026, 04:12 GMT

Take a trip down memory lane with 17 historic photos showcasing Ludlow’s evolution, from famous faces to its storied history.

Ludlow is best known as a gorgeous town that has an iconic 11th century castle which visitors from all over the country flock to visit.

These 17 historic photos showcase Ludlow’s evolution and offer a glimpse into Ludlow’s past through the decades.

Ludlow is frequently dubbed "probably the loveliest town in England". It is a stunning medieval and Georgian market town famous for its castle and hundreds of listed buildings, it perfectly blends history with an acclaimed food scene.

Famous faces associated with Ludlow include, Alistair McGowan, Nick Wheeler and Henry Peach Robinson.

Though, the most famous face is perhaps Arthur Tudor, the Prince of Wales.

We thought we’d walk down memory lane and appreciate the town’s storied history.

Here are 17 old photographs that capture the Ludlow’s spirit:

August 27, 1957: 'The peaceful scene of 16th century Ludford House, Ludlow, will be interrupted tomorrow and Thursday, when antique collectors and dealers from all over the country will gather there for the two-day sale of the furnishings. The home of the late Mr Henry Whitaker, a former High Sheriff of Shropshire, the entire estate has been sold to a property company. It is expected that the estate will be divided and resold in the late autumn.'

5. 16th century Ludford House: August 1957

August 27, 1957: 'The peaceful scene of 16th century Ludford House, Ludlow, will be interrupted tomorrow and Thursday, when antique collectors and dealers from all over the country will gather there for the two-day sale of the furnishings. The home of the late Mr Henry Whitaker, a former High Sheriff of Shropshire, the entire estate has been sold to a property company. It is expected that the estate will be divided and resold in the late autumn.' | Local Library

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The Christmas staff party of J P Wood & Sons (Poultry) Ltd, (Chukie Chickens and Turkeys) of Craven Arms, took place in Ludlow Town Hall.

6. J P Wood & Sons Christmas party: circa 1960s

The Christmas staff party of J P Wood & Sons (Poultry) Ltd, (Chukie Chickens and Turkeys) of Craven Arms, took place in Ludlow Town Hall. | Local Library

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The caption reads: 'A stately home that is a home - Stokesay Court, Onibury, near Ludlow, the private residence of Sir Philip and Lady Magnus Allcroft.' October 2, 1962.

7. Stokesay Court, Onibury, near Ludlow: October 1962

The caption reads: 'A stately home that is a home - Stokesay Court, Onibury, near Ludlow, the private residence of Sir Philip and Lady Magnus Allcroft.' October 2, 1962. | Local Library

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The opening of Friary Hall Youth Club in Ludlow in 1964, with Ludlow MP Jasper More, later Sir Jasper More, on the right with glasses. John Clegg's mother, Alfreda Sciville, is the lady standing directly to the right of him. At the back, fourth from left, is Bill Jeffs, the town mace bearer whose role as senior guarantor was crucial in getting the club off the ground.

8. Opening of Friary Hall Youth Club: 1964

The opening of Friary Hall Youth Club in Ludlow in 1964, with Ludlow MP Jasper More, later Sir Jasper More, on the right with glasses. John Clegg's mother, Alfreda Sciville, is the lady standing directly to the right of him. At the back, fourth from left, is Bill Jeffs, the town mace bearer whose role as senior guarantor was crucial in getting the club off the ground. | Local Library

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