Ford Hill

Settlement in Northumberland

England

Ford Hill

Bridge over Grove Dene On the carriage drive from Ford to Etal. — Bridge over Grove Dene Credit: Oliver Dixon

Ford Hill is a small village located in the county of Northumberland, in the northern region of England. Situated about 15 miles northwest of the city of Newcastle upon Tyne, Ford Hill is nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Northumberland National Park.

With a population of approximately 300 residents, Ford Hill offers a peaceful and close-knit community. The village is characterized by its charming traditional stone houses and cottages, which exude a rustic and quaint atmosphere. The surrounding countryside is abundant with lush green fields, rolling hills, and dense forests, creating a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

Despite its small size, Ford Hill benefits from a few amenities that cater to the needs of its residents. These include a local pub, a village shop, and a primary school. For more extensive amenities and services, the nearby town of Hexham is easily accessible, offering a wider range of shops, supermarkets, and leisure facilities.

In terms of historical significance, Ford Hill is home to the remains of a medieval castle, known as Ford Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. The castle has been partially restored and is now used as an educational center and conference venue. Visitors to Ford Hill can explore the castle's grounds and enjoy scenic walks around the area.

Overall, Ford Hill is a charming and idyllic village that offers a tranquil lifestyle amidst the stunning natural beauty of Northumberland.

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Ford Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.626549/-2.0809647 or Grid Reference NT9537. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bridge over Grove Dene

On the carriage drive from Ford to Etal.

Oliver Dixon

For the intrepid visitor

End station of a zip wire over the deep gorge of Grove Dene on the Ford and Etal estate.

Oliver Dixon

Ford Castle

Although a castle has existed on this site since the 13th century, what is seen here almost all dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. Grade I listed.

Oliver Dixon

Parson's Tower, Ford

A medieval pele tower on the Ford and Etal estate that once housed the local clergyman.

Oliver Dixon

Ford Castle

Although a castle has existed on this site since the 13th century, what is seen here almost all dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. Grade I listed.

Oliver Dixon

Gatehouse and courtyard, Ford Castle

Although a castle has existed on this site since the 13th century, what is seen here almost all dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. The portcullis looks less than authentic. Grade I listed.

Oliver Dixon

Footpath in Castle Dene

On the Ford Village and Castle Dene signed walk.

Oliver Dixon

Gatehouse, Ford Castle

Although a castle has existed on this site since the 13th century, what is seen here almost all dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. The portcullis looks less than authentic. Grade I listed.

Oliver Dixon

Walled Garden, Ford Castle

Outside corner of the garden.

Oliver Dixon

Cypress tree, Ford Castle

Multiple trunks of a cypress tree standing beside the walkway to Ford Castle. Many of the trees on this avenue seem to exhibit the same fate.

Oliver Dixon

Mural in the Lady Waterford Hall

Louisa, Lady Waterford, dowager of the Ford Castle estate established the village school in 1860 and painted biblical scenes on the walls in pre-Raphaelite style. The hall is now a museum dedicated to her work.

Oliver Dixon

Mural in the Lady Waterford Hall

Oliver Dixon

Piano, Lady Waterford Hall

This Bechstein piano dating from 1902 was first installed in St George's Church, Glasgow before being purchased for the Ford estate. There is an identical piano in Shaw's Corner in Hertfordshire, the home of George Bernard Shaw.

Oliver Dixon