Visitor attraction at Ford & Etal Estates in Northumberland wins TripAdvisor accolade

The Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre on the Ford & Etal Estates has been recognised as a 2020 Travellers’ Choice award-winning attraction by TripAdvisor.
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The accolade, based on consistently positive reviewers on the platform from visitors during 2019, puts the specialist equestrian breeding centre in the top 10% of popular attractions worldwide.

The award comes a great boost to the north Northumberland centre, which was forced to raise money via a crowdfunding appeal earlier this year when the Covid-19 pandemic regulations meant it could not open to visitors.

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This greatly relieved the anxiety of Viv Cockburn, who runs the Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre with her daughter Anna.

“After such an awful year for us, we were delighted to receive this award,” said Viv. “We want to send a huge ‘thank you’ to all the visitors who rated us so highly, the award has given us all at the centre a fantastic boost.

“After reopening in early July with the new Covid-19 restrictions in place, our minds have been focused on adapting the centre to keep visitors safe. Then out pops this award, which is truly astounding, not just for us as the owners but also those that work alongside us.

“Tripadvisor is important to us and we act upon comments. Over the years, receiving its Certificates of Excellence has helped increase our footfall, which more importantly raises awareness of the heavies and other rare breeds.

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“This year has seen an increase with those holidaying at home. We have made major changes to the centre, which is now a covered visitor attraction, but with an emphasis on safe distancing and ventilation.

Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre, Ford and Etal.Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre, Ford and Etal.
Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre, Ford and Etal.

"The rain can belt down and the wind can howl, but visitors will still be able to interact with our 16 heavies and then relax with a hot drink and some of our home baking.”

Kanika Soni, chief commercial officer at TripAdvisor, said: “Winners of the 2020 Travelers’ Choice Awards should be proud of this distinguished recognition. Although it’s been a challenging year for travel and hospitality, we want to celebrate our partners’ achievements.”

To see the Tripadvisor visitor reviews for the Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre, visit https://bit.ly/3jgneit

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Anna Cockburn with Clydesdale heavy horses.Anna Cockburn with Clydesdale heavy horses.
Anna Cockburn with Clydesdale heavy horses.

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