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:

An archaeological dig at the Ludlow Friary site in July 1984. The caption reads: 'Volunteers are urgently needed for Ludlow Friary 'dig' which has been going on since the beginning of February and has to end by the end of September. The excavation at the 14th century friary has been organised by the Birmingham University field archaeological unit under the Ludow Historical Research Group. The team of five, helped by local volunteers, has been assisted by money contributed by Ludlow people, but now they are short of time, as more and more items are being found, and on Tuesday they had found their first skeleton.'

13. Archaeological dig at the Ludlow Friar: July 1984

An archaeological dig at the Ludlow Friary site in July 1984. The caption reads: 'Volunteers are urgently needed for Ludlow Friary 'dig' which has been going on since the beginning of February and has to end by the end of September. The excavation at the 14th century friary has been organised by the Birmingham University field archaeological unit under the Ludow Historical Research Group. The team of five, helped by local volunteers, has been assisted by money contributed by Ludlow people, but now they are short of time, as more and more items are being found, and on Tuesday they had found their first skeleton.' | Local Library

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David Davies, Robert Nash, Andrew Moreton, Wayne Handley, and David Rees, as seen in a picture published in the Shropshire Star on March 20, 1989, with the general caption: 'Celebrations were in order for the 300th anniversary of the raising of the 23rd Regiment of The Royal Welch Fusiliers at Ludlow last week.' 'Royal Welch Fusiliers, Ludlow' is written on the back of this print and 'Army cadets' so no doubt it was Ludlow Army Cadets playing the part

14. Ludlow Army Cadets: March 1989

David Davies, Robert Nash, Andrew Moreton, Wayne Handley, and David Rees, as seen in a picture published in the Shropshire Star on March 20, 1989, with the general caption: 'Celebrations were in order for the 300th anniversary of the raising of the 23rd Regiment of The Royal Welch Fusiliers at Ludlow last week.' 'Royal Welch Fusiliers, Ludlow' is written on the back of this print and 'Army cadets' so no doubt it was Ludlow Army Cadets playing the part | Local Library

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Ludlow Market in 2003.

15. Ludlow Market: 2003

Ludlow Market in 2003. | Local Library

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Stead and Simpson in Ludlow closed in 2009. Picture: PA

16. Stead and Simpson in Ludlow closure: 2009

Stead and Simpson in Ludlow closed in 2009. Picture: PA | PA

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