Railway
Travel on our 15 inch gauge railway, pulled by our steam locomotives “Bunty” and “Lady Augusta” or our diesel engine “Binky” between Heatherslaw Station and Etal Castle on a return journey of 4 miles. Our rolling stock offers a choice of fully enclosed or partly glazed coaches to keep you dry, even on the wettest days. There are two wheelchair compartments provided for disabled passengers and the Guard is always on hand to help with boarding.
There is free parking available at Heatherslaw Station and Etal Castle. You are welcome to board the train at Etal Station; return tickets can be purchased from the Guard using a cash only service. A credit or debit card facility is available at the Heatherslaw Station Ticket Office.
The Railway runs along the banks of the River Till giving you stunning views of the Northumberland countryside. You also have the opportunity to spot some of the local wildlife that live on the riverbank, including swans, herons, ducks and even the occasional otter!
Why not break your journey at Etal Station and visit Etal Castle, or walk the short distance up to Etal Village with its thatched cottages and pub, or visit the Lavender Tearoom for refreshments, before catching a later train back to Heatherslaw.
For more information, please visit: https://www.heatherslawlightrailway.co.uk/
Mill
Sitting on the banks of the River Till, Heatherslaw Mill is the only place in Northumberland where you can experience the sight, sound and smell of a traditional mill. You can learn how to operate the hoist, grind your own flour, try your hand at bread-making then take home some freshly milled flour to make your own wonderful creations at home.
There is a history of over 700 years of milling on this site. Powered by a 16 foot water wheel the fully-restored mill machinery, including three different pairs of millstones, still makes high quality, stoneground, wholemeal flour from wheat grown in the local fields.
You can explore the historic building, watch the milling process from beginning to end and see our 21st-Century millers at work. The family-friendly exhibition also gives kids a chance to explore a miller’s life. Educational visits are always welcome and there are a great range of experiences available for under 11s.
Why not stop for a relaxing cup of tea at the Heatherslaw Tearoom, and visit the gift shop to buy some delicious flour or cereals to take home. You can continue your day by exploring the visitor centre or take a trip on the famous Heatherslaw Light Railway over the bridge.
For more information please visit: https://www.ford-and-etal.co.uk/heatherslaw-mill
