2 Best Sights in Ludlow, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Heart of England

The "very perfection of decay," according to author Daniel Defoe, the ruins of this red sandstone castle date from 1085. No wonder the massive structure dwarfs the town: it served as a vital stronghold for centuries and was the seat of the Marcher Lords who ruled "the Marches," the local name for the border region. The two sons of Edward IV—the little princes of the Tower of London—spent time here before being dispatched to London and before their death in 1483. Follow the terraced walk around the castle for a lovely view of the countryside, or climb the steep steps up to the top of the tower for far-reaching views. Information boards explain each area of the vast castle ruins. There is a good café, and three self-catering holiday properties within the castle walls provide an immersive experience. Check the tours and events on the website.

This 13th-century fortified manor house built by a wealthy merchant is among the finest of its kind in England. Inside the main hall, the wooden cruck roof and timber staircase (a rare survival) demonstrate state-of-the-art building methods of the day. Outside, the cottage-style garden creates a bewitching backdrop for the magnificent Jacobean timber-frame gatehouse, and you can climb the fairy-tale tower or take a moat walk. There's a charming tearoom, too. The castle is 7 miles northwest of Ludlow.