Ford, Etal & the River Till
Ford & Etal is the ideal destination for a family day out on the bikes, especially with kids. As well as beautiful Northumbrian countryside and stunning views of the Cheviots, there is so much to see, do, eat & drink along the way - it’s guaranteed to keep everyone entertained. A few highlights include cycling along the banks of the River Till, a ride on Heatherslaw Light Railway, an ice-cream stop in cute Ford village, visiting the friendly heavy horses at Hay Farm, and finishing with alpacas + pizza + locally-brewed beer at the Cheviot Tap.
It also benefits from being on very quiet roads & cycle paths throughout (one busier traffic section by Tillmouth, for 10 mins of the ride).
Check out our interactive route guide, must-see highlights, and on-route food & drink recommendations below!
Historic Ford village, with views to the Cheviots. Photo courtesy of Lloyd Smith.
Key info for this ride: ~20 miles round trip, starting and ending in picturesque Etal village. All-day parking is available by the village hall.
Approx. 2 hours ride round trip, at a medium pace on an E-Bike (not including time at the many stops along the way!)
Very easy ride, with no challenging terrain. Quiet roads and well-maintained cycle paths throughout. One short section with busier traffic on an A road at Tillmouth (approx 10 mins of the route) - easy for adults but please take care with children.
So many places to enjoy along the way. Lots of info on the Ford & Etal website here, or we’ve mentioned a few highlights below.
We’re happy to deliver your bikes to Ford & Etal. Just add ‘delivery & pick-up’ when you book.
ROUTE MAP: 
Click to check out our interactive route map here (free to use, plus you can download on the Komoot App to follow during your ride)
Top Highlights on the route:Etal Village: Begin your adventure in the charming village of Etal. Here, you can explore the 14th-century Etal Castle, delving into its storied past and enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Consider stopping at the Lavender Tea Rooms, known for their homemade cakes and cosy atmosphere.
Heatherslaw Mill: A short ride brings you to Heatherslaw Mill, a fascinating working watermill that’s been grinding grain for over 700 years. Watch the traditional milling process in action and soak up the charm of this historic spot. Right next door, hop aboard the Heatherslaw Light Railway for a scenic ride through the estate - perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia to your adventure!
Ford Village: Pedal your way to Ford, a village packed with history and charm! Wander down its pretty street, check out the local shops, and take in the peaceful vibes - it’s the ideal spot to catch your breath before the next leg of your adventure.
Ford Moss Nature Reserve: For nature lovers, a detour to this scenic reserve is a must! With sweeping views stretching from the coastline to the Cheviot Hills, it’s the perfect place to take a breather and soak up the wild beauty of Northumberland. The bracken-covered moors make for an epic ride, especially on a clear day!
Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre: Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to this centre, where you can meet majestic heavy horses and learn about their roles in agriculture. The on-site museum provides insights into the history and significance of these gentle giants.
Check out the Ford & Etal website here for more detail info.
Where to eat & drink along the route:The Black Bull, Etal: A proper country pub in the heart of Etal village - and the only thatched pub in Northumberland! Expect locally brewed ales (including nearby Cheviot Brewery), classic pub dishes and a cosy stop-off point to refuel mid-ride. Dog-friendly, cyclist-welcoming and a great place to rest your legs.
Heatherslaw Tea Room: Set beside the working Heatherslaw Mill, this charming tearoom offers homemade cakes, light lunches and proper pots of tea. Sit outside by the river on sunny days or tuck into a warm scone after a breezy ride - either way, it’s a peaceful and picturesque pit stop.
Cheviot Tap: Finish your ride with a visit to this quirky ‘pub in the hills’, offering a selection of craft beers and a cosy setting to relax after your cycling adventure. Wood-fired pizzas also available on some days in summer. Remember to say hello to their alpacas too!
We hope you have a lovely day exploring Ford, Etal and the surrounding countryside on the bikes! Any questions please get in touch.
Dedicated cycle path from Etal village, along the banks of the tranquil River Till. Photo courtesy of Lloyd Smith.
