The best walks and hikes around Ford
4.5
(333)
2,179
hikers
14
hikes
Hikes around Ford explore a landscape of gentle rolling fields, woodlands, and riverside paths in Northumberland. The area is known for its historical landmarks, with many trails connecting sites like Ford Castle and Etal Castle. The terrain is generally moderate, featuring low hills and well-defined paths suitable for a variety of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Ford
- The most popular hiking route is Etal Castle, Ford Castle & Heatherslaw Cornmill loop from Etal, a 5.3 mile (8.5 km)…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.8
(11)
49
hikers
8.47km
02:15
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
7
hikers
12.1km
03:17
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
6
hikers
3.57km
00:56
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
11.1km
02:55
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
8.17km
02:18
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The place is running with passion. Worth stopping by and try some of their ciders and juice
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Harnessing the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of human discovery, whose origins can be traced back to ancient times. Thanks to such a design, a watercourse – natural or artificial – made it possible to simply replace human or animal muscle power with the power of natural elements, for example, to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit. There are essentially two drive variants for watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel – usually through a so-called "mill channel" – and falls onto the blades. This design, thanks to natural gravity, ensures greater efficiency.
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Excellent coffee n cakes, friendly people. Sadly the vendors are leaving but say that the people taking it over are nice and will keep it the same for the first year at least, let’s hope it doesn’t change too much.
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posted as 'not suitable for road bikes’, in my experience a road bike is fine just be aware some parts may be wet or slippery, also beware of walkers
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The Old Forge Antiques occupies a unique building that used to be a blacksmith's forge, complete with a horseshoe-shaped doorway! The forge stopped making horseshoes in the 1970s, but it's still a busy place today. If you're looking for antiques, you've come to the right spot. They have a mix of interesting finds, from furniture and collectibles to vintage clothes and jewelry. There's even a specialist who sells rare books, including some about World War I. They can also fix up any broken furniture or chipped ceramics you might have. So whether you're a serious antique hunter or just enjoy looking around, the Old Forge Antiques & Interiors is worth a visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Ford suitable for families and children?
Yes, many trails are family-friendly. The area features generally moderate terrain with low hills and well-defined paths. A great option is the Etal Castle – Etal Village and Castle Ruins loop from Etal, which is a shorter, easy walk that explores historic ruins, making it engaging for all ages.
Can I take my dog on the trails in the Ford area?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Ford, but they should be kept on a lead, especially when crossing fields with livestock. The paths through woodlands and along rivers offer great walking opportunities for you and your canine companion.
Are there any waterfall hikes near Ford?
Yes, you can hike to a waterfall in this area. The Roughting Linn Waterfall – Ford Moss Chimney loop from Ford is a popular choice that leads you through varied terrain to the impressive Roughting Linn waterfall, which is known for its prehistoric rock art.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Ford?
The hiking routes around Ford are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery that combines rolling countryside with historical landmarks like Ford and Etal Castles, as well as the well-maintained paths.
How many hiking trails are available around Ford?
There are over 15 curated hiking routes to explore around Ford. These range from short, easy walks to more moderate day hikes, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels and interests.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Ford area?
The hikes around Ford are primarily easy to moderate, focusing on rolling hills and riverside paths rather than strenuous mountain climbs. For a longer, more engaging walk, consider the Ford Castle – Lady Waterford Hall loop from Ford, which is a 7.5-mile (12.1 km) moderate trail with some elevation gain.
What is the terrain like for hiking around Ford?
The landscape is characterized by gentle rolling fields, quiet woodlands, and paths along the River Till. The trails are generally well-defined and cover low hills, making the terrain moderate and accessible for most walkers.
Are there circular or loop trails available?
Yes, most of the popular routes in the area are loop trails, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. This is perfect for planning a day out, as you can easily return to your car or starting village.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a hike?
You can expect classic Northumberland countryside scenery. Hikes often feature views of historic sites like Ford Castle and Etal Castle, paths through lush woodlands, and tranquil stretches along the river. The area is known for its mix of natural beauty and rich history.
Where can I park to access the trailheads?
Parking is typically available in the villages of Ford and Etal, which serve as the main starting points for many of the popular hikes. Both villages have designated parking areas close to the trailheads.
Is it possible to get to the trails using public transport?
Public transport options to the rural villages of Ford and Etal are limited. The area is best accessed by car, which provides the most flexibility for reaching the various trailheads. It is advisable to check local bus schedules in advance as services can be infrequent.
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