Ludlow’s famous market square was alive with colour, conversation and the scent of fresh produce this week a scene that’s been at the heart of town life for more than 700 years.
From local farm produce and artisan crafts to hot food and handmade pottery, the Ludlow Market remains one of Shropshire’s most loved open air markets. And now, the town’s traders are asking for your support as Ludlow Market has been nominated for “Best Small Outdoor Market” in the Great British Market Awards 2026.
Organised by NABMA (The National Association of British Market Authorities), the awards celebrate the best of British markets, and voting is now open until 12 pm on Friday 12th December 2025. You can cast your vote by scanning the QR code on posters around the market square or by visiting nabma.com.
🏰 A Market with Centuries of Tradition
Markets have taken place in Ludlow since the 12th century, shortly after the town was founded around Ludlow Castle, built by the de Lacy family around 1086–1094. By the Middle Ages, Ludlow had grown into a thriving trading centre for wool, cloth and local produce with market rights formally established under a royal charter.
The market square, known today as Castle Square, has been the town’s trading heart ever since. Overlooking it stands the Buttercross, built in 1746 by architect William Baker of Audlem, A grand Georgian market building that still houses the Ludlow Museum at the Buttercross.
From medieval merchants to modern makers, Ludlow’s market has evolved with the times while keeping its community spirit alive.
🧺 What You’ll Find Today
The market runs four days a week Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with additional themed events throughout the year, including food festivals, craft fairs and vintage markets.
Visitors can explore a wide mix of stalls, including:
- Clearview Farm Shop fresh local fruit and veg
- Budleia Scented Flower Buds local honey, jams and preserves
- Ludlow Pottery hand-crafted ceramics and tableware
- Rooted Living sustainable teas and ecofriendly goods
- Liquorice Stall traditional and international sweets
- Silver Grill serving hot food, bacon rolls and coffee to market goers
Each trader adds to the market’s unique character, creating a space where local shopping meets local friendship.
💬 Why Your Vote Matters
Winning the Great British Market Award would be a huge boost for the town, bringing national recognition to the traders who make Ludlow Market such a special place to visit.
It’s not just about tradition it’s about supporting the independent businesses that keep our town centre thriving.
So, next time you’re in Ludlow, grab a coffee from the Silver Grill, browse the stalls under the blue and white canopies, and take a moment to vote for Ludlow Market.
Because when you vote, you’re helping to celebrate over seven centuries of Ludlow’s trading heritage and securing its future for generations to come.
📍 Ludlow Market Castle Square, Ludlow
🗓️ Market Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday
🗳️ Vote now: www.nabma.com
📸 Photos: Ludlow Now
