Around 38 million people visit the Cotswolds every year with the area hosting a number of beautiful spots that are perfect for the ultimate UK staycation. However, if you’re hoping to experience a quieter getaway, opting for a place that sees millions of others wanting the same thing could be off-putting. Therefore, why not try out somewhere new, as the UK has plenty of hidden gems and many of them which are just as nice as the Cotswolds.

Ludlow, in Shropshire, is a pretty little market town which sees a fraction of visitors that head over to the Cotswolds every year. Yet the town is an absolute gem with so many things to enjoy from exploring the streets of the historic centre and visting the beautiful landmarks it houses to enjoying a bite to eat at one of the many resturants and cafes dotted around.

The town being a hidden gem doesn’t take away from its lively community, where visitors can enjoy a number of events and festivals that take place throughout the entire year, icnluding the UK’s first successful food and drink festival, as per Ludlow.org.uk.

The festival which has been going on for over 20 years sees the town streets transformed by showcases of food and drinks both made and supplied by “small-scale. high quality producers” frrom Ludlow and the Welsh Marches. The festival takes place every September and over the three days visitors visitors will not only find the producers offering tasting and sales but also a number of food-related activites including workshops, demonstrations and talks.

But a trip ahead of the food festival is still well worth it. The town houses beautiful attractions including Ludlow Castle – built around 1086, the impressive castle features examples of architecture from the Norman, Medieval and Tudor periods.

The attraction which rated 4.5-stars on TripAdvisor is often recommended by many visitors.

One vistior who explored the castle in March said: “Fab castle in decent nick for its age. Seriously, it’s well preserved, with lots of informative signage. A small cafe and gift shop. Well worth a visit, especially if you have any interest in history. Fabulous views from some of the higher levels.”

As well as its landmarks, Ludlow is surrounded by countryside perfect to enjoy a peaceful walk alone or with others. Plenty of walks lead out to forests and farmland making it the perfect opportunity to explore the both the beautiful town and its surrounding areas.