Ledbury

Ledbury is a market town in Herefordshire with a Market House standing on 16 oak pillars in the center of High Street, displaying black and white timber framing from the 17th century. The place retains historic buildings that shape its streets and lead visitors through narrow lanes lined with old structures.

The town received its first market charter from King Stephen in 1138, establishing its importance as a trading center. Queen Elizabeth I granted a new charter in 1585 that remains valid today, showing how the place continued to develop over centuries.

The town hosts an annual poetry festival every July that draws writers and literary fans from around the world to different venues across the place. This event has become central to how people here connect with the arts and shape the community's character.

The weekly market runs on Tuesday and Saturday mornings under the Market House, where you can find local produce, crafts, and everyday items. The central location makes it easy to reach and gives visitors a good base for exploring the surrounding area.

A hidden room from the 16th century holds Tudor wall paintings discovered in 1989 that display rare decorative techniques from that era. These artworks offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and tastes of people living back then.

Location: Herefordshire

Shares border with: Cheltenham

Website: http://ledburytowncouncil.gov.uk

GPS coordinates: 52.03390,-2.42350

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:23