Ludlow and CSONS - A Foodies Pleasure

Discover Ludlow and Shropshire: A Food Lover’s Paradise with CSONS at the Heart

If you’re planning a visit to the beautiful market town of Ludlow in Shropshire, you’re in for more than just stunning countryside and historic charm. This part of England has quietly earned a reputation as one of the UK’s top food destinations — and at the heart of it all is the family-run gem, CSONS.

Why Ludlow is a Must-Visit for Food Lovers

Ludlow is often called the “food capital” of Shropshire, and it’s easy to see why. Nestled among rolling hills and medieval streets, this town boasts a vibrant food scene full of passionate producers, farmers’ markets, artisan shops, and some seriously good restaurants. From traditional British fare to globally inspired dishes, Ludlow offers something to delight every palate. The region embraces the concept of "Field to Fork" or "Farm to Table", which ever one of those expressions you prefer.

The region’s rich agricultural heritage is all around you, fields full of sheep, cows grazing on lush green grass. This means ingredients are top quality — think freshly picked vegetables, rare-breed meats, and cheeses that rival the best anywhere in the world. Visiting Ludlow is like stepping into a food treasure trove where local provenance and craftsmanship take center stage.

Meet CSONS: Ludlow’s Culinary Family

One of the shining stars of Ludlow’s dining scene is CSONS, a family of four brothers who opened their first restaurant just 10 minutes away in Shrewsbury back in 2015. Reuben, Adam, Ben, and Josh Crouch grew up traveling the world with their dad, soaking up diverse flavors and cooking styles that now inspire their menus.

Their restaurants in Shrewsbury and Ludlow, plus their nearby Sourced Pizza spot, champion local growers and producers — using seasonal, British ingredients to create dishes bursting with global flair. You won’t find mass-produced brands on their menu at CSONS, just honest, thoughtfully prepared food made with passion.

Our Visit to CSONS Ludlow

On our recent trip, we had the pleasure of dining at CSONS not once, but twice — and both experiences were exceptional. Every dish was a delicious celebration of fresh, local produce combined with creative global influences.

A particular highlight that I highly recommend is the Caldecott Chicken Shawarma — tender, perfectly spiced, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that truly stands out. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one meal you don’t want to miss.

Exploring Food in the Shropshire Region

While CSONS is a must-visit, Ludlow and the wider Shropshire area are packed with good food experiences, indeed we visited many other restaurants and pubs that deserve a mention as well. If you love good and fresh food, the region has plenty offer from fish and chips to historic pubs from Michelin star restaurants to wonderful pies and pasties. Here are some things to look out for:

• Ludlow Food Festival — an annual celebration of local and regional food producers with tastings, demonstrations, and stalls.

• Farmers’ Markets — held regularly around the area, these markets are a great place to meet producers and buy fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Local Delis and Artisan Shops — from award-winning cheese makers to craft bakers and butchers, you’ll find plenty of places to pick up delicious treats.

• Country Pubs with a Food Focus — many traditional pubs here are reinventing themselves with menus focused on local, sustainable food.

Plan Your Adventure

If you love exploring food cultures, Ludlow is the perfect base for your next trip. Wander the historic streets, visit the castle, hike around the stunning countryside, then settle in at a local restaurant for a memorable meal that combines the best of Shropshire with tastes from around the world.