Accommodation
Ford Castle is one of the most attractive residential centres in the country. With views to the Cheviot hills, the castle is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The historical walled town of Berwick upon Tweed, the beautiful unspoilt Northumberland coastline, Holy Island, Bamburgh and the Farne Islands are all close by. The cities and airports of Edinburgh and Newcastle upon Tyne are both about one hour’s drive away. The local countryside offers excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, angling, art and culture.
The wealth of history is well documented and goes back to the 14th century. King James IV of Scotland spent his last night at the castle before his fatal battle on Flodden Field in 1513. Two original medieval towers have survived, each with their own vaulted stone dungeon.
Ford Castle now operates as a residential field study and outdoor centre for young people during term-time. At weekends and during school holidays it is available for adult group bookings. Within the main building there are 6 single and 17 twin or dormitory size bedrooms, two dining rooms, several public rooms and a well stocked comfortable bar lounge. Each room retains the atmosphere of an important historic building with many original features.
The public rooms are fitted with oak panelling to the walls and during the winter months log fires add greatly to their ambience. Some bedrooms have en-suite facilities, the remainder having their own sink, some inset in Victorian marble.
The castle has five acres of peaceful grounds and gardens which afford stunning views of the Cheviot Hills. The grounds are immaculately maintained in a traditional Victorian manner and offer a very relaxing environment with wonderfully shaped yew bushes, lawns and flowerbeds.
Within the grounds are two self-catering holiday lets which are ideal for family breaks, or which can act as overspill accommodation for large group bookings.
The Main Castle can accommodate up to 68 people in 23 bedrooms served by 11 bathrooms. For those groups wishing to self-cater, or are operating on a budget, then the Clock Tower Annex with its bunked dormitory style can accommodate up to 26 people with a ten bedded and a twelve bedded dormitory. Both dormitories have shower rooms and en-suite leaders rooms attached.
