a bit about us
Welcome to Ludlow Marches Food & Drink
A not-for-profit organisation that has, for the past three decades, showcased the very pinnacle of food and drink from our region.
Starting with the Ludlow Marches Food & Drink Festival in 1995, the organisation now runs the successful Spring Festival in collaboration with Marches Transport Festival and SIBA, and the Magnalonga, a summer food and drink walk through the South Shropshire countryside.
Nestled within the historic and picturesque walls of Ludlow Castle, the original food and drink festival offers a truly unparalleled experience for food enthusiasts. As we mark our 30th year, we invite you to delve into the rich tapestry of our festival's history, values, and the vibrant community that has grown around it.
The Ludlow Marches Food & Drink Festival was born out of a collective aspiration to highlight the exceptional local produce that our region is blessed with. Since its inception in 1995, our guiding mission has been to champion the food producers who are the backbone of our culinary landscape. We celebrate the abundance of quality food and drink in our area, from the farms to the kitchens that together define our gastronomic identity.
Set against the iconic backdrop of Ludlow Castle, The Festival transcends the typical food event, offering a dynamic programme of live cooking demonstrations, entertaining talks, and interactive workshops. These activities are led by renowned chefs, esteemed local food and drink producers, and experts who share their passion and knowledge, making the Festival a hub of learning and enjoyment.
At the heart of Ludlow, a destination synonymous with food and drink excellence, our festivals stand as a testament to the area's rich culinary heritage. We are dedicated to showcasing the finest local and seasonal produce, providing a platform for producers to connect with a broader audience. This commitment extends to nurturing smaller-scale growers and makers, ensuring their invaluable work is celebrated and supported.
Our brand values are the foundation upon which the Ludlow Marches Food & Drink Festival is built:
- Quality: We are unwavering in our dedication to delivering the highest quality visitor experience. This commitment is reflected in our careful selection of vendors and products, ensuring only the best is on offer.
- Community: Promotion of a sense of community is at our core. We support local businesses, artisans, and producers, creating an inclusive space that welcomes all participants. Through fostering this sense of belonging, we strengthen the bonds within our local area.
- Sustainability: Our commitment to championing sustainable and ethical food practices is paramount. We recognise our responsibility to the environment and future generations, and we strive to reflect these values in every aspect of the festival.
- Innovation: Embracing creativity and innovation is key to continually enhancing experiences for our participants and visitors. We believe in pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas to keep our festival fresh and exciting.
- Support: The festival is committed to making a difference beyond the realm of food and drink. We support local individuals, groups, and educational initiatives aimed at alleviating food poverty in the community. Our festival is more than an event; it's a movement towards a better, more connected, and sustainable world.
As we celebrate 30 years of the Ludlow Marches Food & Drink Festival, we look back with pride at how far we've come and look forward with excitement to the future. We invite you to join us in this journey, to discover, learn, and revel in the culinary delights our region has to offer.
