Centred round the charming villages of Ford and Etal, whether you seek peace and tranquility, a walk in breathtakingly beautiful countryside, a visit immersed in the heritage of the area, an adventurous activity or a family day out you’ll find it here on this privately owned country estate.
Heatherslaw is home to the most northerly steam train in England, Heatherslaw Light Railway. This 15" gauge railway with steam locomotives "Bunty" and “Lady Augusta” travels along the banks of the River Till between Heatherslaw Station and Etal Castle, a return journey of 6.4km. A choice of fully enclosed or partly glazed coaches ensures you'll remain dry, even on the wettest days! At Heatherslaw Station there’s a model railway room and a small gift shop, as well as an antique Fowler traction engine caravan displaying work by Imogen Louise Design.
Heatherslaw Cornmill lies a short walk over the bridge. This fascinating, fully restored and working 19th century watermill makes a range of flours using traditional methods and is open to the public to explore. With many activities for children and an affordable admission charge this is a ‘must see’. In addition there is a Visitor Centre, Tearoom, Papercut Artist and Jeweller.
Hay Farm lies between Heatherslaw and Etal and here you’ll find the Heavy Horse and Rare Breeds Centre. Meet the Clydesdale horses and other rare breeds or take a horse-drawn carriage rides (available on selected days – see website for details).
Ford village is home to the stunning Lady Waterford Hal, built in 1860 as the village school. Prepare to be amazed by the life-sized watercolour murals that line the walls of the building and hear the fascinating story of Louisa Marchioness of Waterford.
Also in Ford: tearooms, antiques and collectables, village shop/post office, cycle hire, guesthouses.
Etal village with its white painted buildings and thatched roofs is popular for refreshments with the choice of the Lavender Tearooms and the Black Bull pub. Visit the castle, ransacked at the time of the nearby Battle of Flodden (1513) take a riverside walk or visit the beautiful St Mary’s Church.
Outdoor activities include canoeing, fishing, horse-riding and walking.
Events are held throughout the year.