Ledbury is a historic and tranquil market town in the picturesque county of Herefordshire. Situated to the west of the rolling Malvern Hills, the town is famous for its timber-framed architecture, historical buildings, and yearly celebration of poetry and literature.
One of the town's most famous structures it the Old Market House, a Grade II listed, black-and-white house that was built in the 1600s. Other notable buildings include the Barrett-Browning memorial clock tower and the church of St. Michael and All Angels. Properties in the Ledbury area include modern apartments, traditional town houses, idyllic retirement homes, and quaint bungalows. Tourism is a major source of income to the town, with tourists flocking to experience the town's heritage and explore its scenic streets. The Ledbury Poetry Festival is held every year in the town centre and runs for 10 days.
The festival celebrates poetry in all its form and features engaging poetry circles, innovative open mic events, and featured poets. Ledbury was the birth place of the Victorian poet Elizabeth Barrett-Brown and the home of poet laureate John Masefield (after whom one of the town's schools is named). Ledbury also features prominently in William Wordsworth's revered sonnet, St Catherine of Ledbury.
Ledbury is also home to one of the oldest hospital sites in England, St Katherine's Hospital site. Built in 1231, many elements of the hospital complex still exist, including the hospital itself, its Master's House, hall, and chapel. The Butchers Row House Museum is open from March to October and features many items of local interest, including weapons from the 1645 Battle of Ledbury, and human bones. Ledbury is also famous for its cider, and many venues - including the Cider Mill - offer cider tasting events.
