We set off from the meeting place in Ford village - a beautiful “model village” rebuilt in the 19th century. We pass the old school, now an art gallery, (visit this later - time needed 30 minutes). Leaving the village we enter woodland then cross open fields as we walk towards Hay Farm heavy horse centre (15 minutes). We pass fields that often contain majestic shire horses and begin a slow, gentle climb towards the open moor (20 minutes). Here we can pause and take in magnificent views across to the Cheviot Hills and Scotland.

After crossing a short section of woodland we head down towards the village of Etal passing by the estate farm and sawmill (20 minutes). Etal village has pretty whitewashed cottages, a tearoom, thatched pub and ancient Etal Castle (can be visited later - 45 minutes). We catch glimpses of 18th century Etal manor, with its own private chapel, and head towards the settlement of Heatherslaw (20 minutes). We cross the river Till and pass by the miniature steam railway (30 minutes). (it is possible to ride the train to Etal and back). A medieval water-powered flour mill is our next destination. There is a lovely tearoom and some craft shops which are worth a visit (20 minutes). Our route takes us across estate fields to the riverside which we follow until reaching Ford bridge.(40 minutes) Crossing the bridge we enter the grounds of Ford castle through grand entrance pillars and make our way along the carriage drive to the Castle (now a childrens activity centre).

The castle makes a fitting final stop to our walk. The walk is around six miles and we will spend four hours enjoying the scenery, hearing the history of the area and the story of the estate and how it operates in the 21st century.