A new festival celebrating Ludlow's rich heritage is set to launch this summer.
The inaugural Ludlow History Festival will run from August 21 to 30, 2026, offering 10 days of events exploring the town's past through theatre, music, comedy, storytelling, guided walks, lectures, and hands-on activities.
Organisers say visitors will be able to experience Ludlow's history in the places where it happened, from its ancient geological origins to its medieval roots and influential figures through the centuries.
Ludlow Castle will be transformed into a medieval village, complete with a stone-carving competition and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Ludlow Brewery will host a Vintage Car Day and music events, while St Laurence's Church will stage a Regency Ball.
Ludlow Assembly Rooms will host a range of headline events including Rex Factor Live, artist and folklore researcher Lally Macbeth, storyteller Jason Buck, and an "In Conversation" event with former deputy prime minister Lord Michael Heseltine.
Actress Maxine Peake will also feature in a live performance of 1612 Underture by Eccentronic Research Council.
Guided walks will explore the geology of the River Teme as well as Ludlow's streets, architecture, and communities.
The festival is being delivered through a partnership involving Ludlow Assembly Rooms, St Laurence's Church, Ludlow Brewery, Ludlow Library, Shropshire Museums' Service, and several local organisations, with support from businesses and community groups across the town.
Share