At first sight, it seems like your typical market town situated in England's heartland. However, this modest spot harbours an extraordinary historical legacy, featuring more than 400 listed buildings and an remarkable five Grade I listed structures - amongst them a castle and a Norman Church.

That town is Ludlow, a thriving medieval market settlement that stands as an architectural gem, teeming with community character, numerous independent retailers, and an array of top-rated restaurants and public houses. Celebrated for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval and Tudor buildings and its mostly unchanged original street layout, Ludlow is regarded as a treasure trove of English history.

Steeped in heritage, Ludlow first emerged in 1086 with the building of its formidable castle, which was subsequently surrounded by town walls in 1233.

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Substantial portions of these fortifications, together with all seven gateways, remain visible today.

Through the passing centuries, Ludlow transformed into a stylish social destination, drawing county families who constructed sought-after Georgian brick residences throughout the 18th and 19th Centuries - numerous examples of which still adorn the town's streets, reports the Express.

Beyond Ludlow Castle and St. Laurence's Church, the town also boasts The Buttercross market hall, established in 1746, The Readers House, a Grade-I listed treasure displaying its authentic timber-frame construction, and the celebrated half-timbered Feathers Hotel, displaying its Tudor frontage, built in 1619.

Beyond its remarkable wealth of architectural treasures, Ludlow boasts a bustling independent shopping district packed with boutiques, antique shops, art galleries and artisan food outlets.

Many visitors sing the praises of Ludlow, hailing it as a "lovely place to visit".

One delighted visitor enthused: "Ludlow castle and Ludlow itself are a lovely place to visit and have a wander around. The scenery is beautiful."

Another couldn't contain their excitement, gushing: "I can't possibly put into words all I'd like to say about this place.

"It's wonderful. This is the second time I've been and I'm as full of wonder now as I was the first time."