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Highland Coo Farm Visits and Experiences: Get Up Close with Scotland’s Adorable Icons

Scotland’s charming Highland Coos, also known as Highland Cattle, have become iconic symbols of the Scottish countryside. With their distinctive shaggy coats and impressive horns, these gentle creatures capture the hearts of visitors from around the world. 

For those seeking an unforgettable experience, there are several showcase farms and locations in Scotland that offer the opportunity to interact with Highland Coos up close. From guided tours to feeding experiences and photography opportunities, let’s explore the delightful world of Highland Coo farm visits.

Guided Tours:

Highland Coo farms often provide guided tours that take visitors on a journey through the fascinating world of these magnificent creatures. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, visitors can learn about the history, characteristics and care of Highland Coos.

They’ll discover interesting facts about their unique genetics, their role in Scottish agriculture and the conservation efforts aimed at preserving these remarkable animals. Guided tours offer a chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and gain insights into their daily lives.

Feeding Experiences:

One of the highlights of a Highland Coo farm visit is the opportunity to participate in feeding experiences. Visitors can engage in hands-on interactions by offering specially prepared feed to the coos. 

Under the supervision of experienced staff, guests can get up close to the Highland Coos, feel their shaggy coats and witness their gentle nature. Feeding experiences provide a memorable chance to connect with these fascinating animals and capture beautiful moments to cherish.

Photography Opportunities:

Highland Coos’ striking appearance and photogenic nature make them a popular subject for photographers. Many Highland Coo farms understand the allure of capturing these enchanting creatures on camera and offer photography opportunities. 

Visitors can take stunning photographs of Highland Coos amidst breathtaking Scottish landscapes or in specially designated areas within the farm. Whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer, the unique beauty of Highland Coos will undoubtedly inspire awe-inspiring shots.

Educational Experiences:

Highland Coo farm visits are not only fun but also educational. Farms often incorporate educational components into their experiences, providing visitors with valuable insights into the history, biology and conservation of Highland Cattle. 

( Trivia – Have you ever wondered what a Highland Coo weighs? )

Learning about the importance of preserving these heritage animals and their role in sustainable farming practices contributes to a deeper appreciation for the Highland Coos and the Scottish agricultural heritage.

A visit to a Highland Coo farm offers a memorable and immersive experience for animal lovers, nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking a touch of Scottish charm. 

Guided tours, feeding experiences and photography opportunities allow visitors to connect with Highland Coos on a personal level, gaining a newfound appreciation for these captivating animals and Scotland’s rich agricultural heritage. 

So, plan your trip to a Highland Coo farm and create lasting memories while enjoying the beauty and serenity of Scotland’s beloved icons, the Highland Coos.

Why is it called a Highland Coo?

Why is it called a Highland Coo? – Highland Cattle, commonly referred to as Highland Coo, are a breed of cattle native to Scotland. These majestic and hardy animals have been living in the Scottish Highlands for centuries, and their distinctive long horns and shaggy coats make them easily recognizable.  This is the reason why they are sometimes referred as hairy coos or a hairy coo.

Why You Need The Ultimate Scotland Travel Guide (it’s Free)

Are you planning a trip to Scotland? Are you looking for the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on Scottish travel and culture? Look no further – the Ultimate Scotland Travel Guide is here.

How Much Does a Highland Coo Weigh?

How Much Does a Highland Coo Weigh? Unveiling the Sturdy Beauty of Scotland’s Iconic Breed

The Highland Coo, also known as the Highland Cow or Scottish Highland Cattle, is a majestic and hardy breed native to the rugged landscapes of Scotland. With its striking appearance and unique characteristics, this iconic bovine has become an emblem of Scottish heritage. One question that often arises is, “How much does a Highland Coo weigh?” Let’s delve into the physical characteristics of these magnificent creatures and discover the answer.

Ready to start planning that trip to Scotland? Start here!

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A Guide to Seeing Highland Cows in Scotland

Highland cows are a Scottish breed of rustic cattle known for their thick, shaggy coats that enable them to survive in the harshest of temperatures. You’ll find them throughout Scotland in places like the Cairngorms, the Isle of Mull, Galloway Forest Park, and many other places. Discover exactly where you can see Highland cows in Scotland in this guide, which includes a heap of fun facts about these famously hairy animals.

Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland

Because they’re such an iconic Scottish animal you might think you won’t be able to move for the enormous roaming herds that fill every available green space in Scotland. The reality, however, is that sightings of them are quite sporadic and there’s every possibility you’ll spend an entire holiday in Scotland and not see a single one, especially if you stick to the cities.

If you’re desperate to see them, the most obvious place to look is the Highlands (well, duh…), but there are several other areas where you’ll have a good chance to get your Instagram snaps. One of these is Aberdeenshire, which is one of the biggest farming regions in Britain, and you’ll frequently see Highland cows in the county’s fields, but it’s better known for the Aberdeen Angus cow, which is a short-haired black-coloured beast that’s very stocky and as far removed from Highland cows as it gets.

Another place to look is the Cairngorms National Park, which has lots of animals grazing freely, but there are also a few places in the southwest of Scotland as well as some of the inhabited west coast islands to see them.

Elsewhere you’re likely to see Highland cows in any of Scotland’s petting zoos like the Heads of Ayr Farm Park or Jacksons at Jedburgh as well as a few Highland cows near Loch Lomond and at Culloden Battlefield . There are even farms that offer bespoke ‘cow safaris’ like Airyollan Farm in Southwest Scotland.

The Highlands

Sutherland is a county in the far north of Scotland that is a popular place to visit not only for the stunning coastline that can be seen on a tour of the NC500 but also for the Highland cows that can often be seen lazing around on the warm sand at Clachtoll and Achmelvich beaches.

The Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air visitor attraction in Newtonmore in Badenoch and Strathspey in the Scottish Highlands which aims to preserve the memory of the traditional Highland way of life. One section – Aultarie Croft – has a few very sociable heilan coos that are used to being petted by visitors.

Torridon is a small village in the northwest Highlands that’s a popular tourist destination due to the fact it’s set in one of the most stunning landscapes in Scotland. The open expanses of moorland act as the perfect grazing site for Highland cows.

Plockton is a small village that faces Loch Carron near Skye and it’s a bit of a must-visit if you want to take a step back in time. Highland cows are allowed to walk around the village quite freely which is the perfect setting for a quick coo selfie.

Applecross is the home of Britain’s highest, most twisty-turny road (the Bealach na Ba ) which attracts tourists by the coachload who are keen to see the wonderful coastline in that remote corner of Scotland. It’s also prime coo-watching territory.

Northeast Scotland

The historic town of Banchory in Royal Deeside is known for two popular historic tourist attractions: Crathes Castle and Drum Castle. This is a lovely part of the country that’s not inundated with crowds of tourists, so saying hello to the Highland cows near the Crathes Castle entrance is highly recommended.

Meldrum House Hotel is close to Banchory and the Glen Garioch whisky distillery on the A947, around a 30-minute drive northwest of Aberdeen. The hotel is notable for having a fold of cows on the grounds.

If you love Scotch whisky you’ll love a visit to the Macallan distillery as it has one of the best visitor centres in Scotland. Located in a gorgeous countryside setting, the grounds are home to the distillery’s very own collection of Highland cows. Seeing them is also a good excuse to pick up a bottle of single malt.

Southwest Scotland

Pollok Country Park in Glasgow is criminally under-visited by international visitors, in my opinion, as it’s a beautiful park that’s an easy drive from the city centre. The 146-hectare park has lots of attractions, including, you guessed it, Highland cows.

Galloway Forest Park in Dumfries and Galloway is the perfect place to switch off from busy city life and enjoy nature. This is the largest forest park in the UK, and it’s famed for its walking and cycling paths as well as its Highland cattle that graze freely inside the forest boundaries.

Hirsel Country Park only just makes it into this list because it’s right on the border with England, but I had to include it as it’s the location of the magnificent Hirsel country house and the estate has its very own fold of coos.

Southeast Scotland (Edinburgh)

If you’re wondering where to see Highland cows in Edinburgh I recommend driving to Prestonfield House which is home to a few Highland cows that live in the 20 acres of gardens that surround the main building. This is one of the most luxurious places in Edinburgh, as it’s the location of one of the poshest hotels in the city, but they also welcome visitors to stop by for a drink or a meal on the terrace, after which you can explore the gardens in search of their fold of cows.

Swanston Farm is located just outside the city bypass where it borders the gorgeous Pentland Hills , so visiting the farm is an ideal opportunity to go for an enjoyable walk afterwards.

This isn’t a typical farm because the area that’s open to the public is set up as a countryside retreat, although there are over 300 acres that can be walked around to the immediate north of the Swanston golf club where you might see their fold of Highland cattle.

Mortonhall Caravan Park lies south of the Mortonhall Golf Club and north of the city bypass which means it’s possible to visit it within a 20-minute drive of Edinburgh city centre. Several walking paths run through the site but their Highland cows are usually found near the park entrance.

The Hebrides

If you’re visiting Scotland you really owe it to yourself to visit the Isle of Skye while you’re here. There are so many attractions on this stunning island it would be impossible to fit them all in this article but in addition to the spectacular natural wonders of the island, you’ll also find Highland cows wandering about – especially near Elgol on the south of the island.

Love whisky? You have to visit the Isle of Islay . This picturesque island has breathtaking scenery, gorgeous beaches and the friendliest people you’re ever likely to meet. It’s a bonus then that it also has lots of Highland cows wandering all over it.

The Isle of Mull comes a close second in my list of best Scottish islands as it’s almost as pretty as Skye but it’s much quieter and just a wee bit cheaper for hotels. Our favourite ginger bovines roam happily around the Glengorm Castle Hotel on the north of the island.

Agricultural Shows

Edinburgh might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of heilan coos, but head towards the airport in August and you’ll find yourself at the Royal Highland Show , one of the biggest and longest-running agricultural shows in Britain.

The Angus Show held near Dundee is a 2-day event that I’ve previously visited and really enjoyed, hence its inclusion in this list. While it’s not as big as some agricultural shows, it’s very friendly and has a great selection of food stalls as well as lots of interesting farm animal-themed displays.

The Banchory show in Aberdeenshire is even older than the Royal Highland Show having been first staged over two hundred years ago and it’s showing no signs of slowing down with farming displays galore, including many fine specimens of heilan coo.

What Are Highland Cows?

Highland cows are a Scottish breed of rustic cattle known for their thick, shaggy coats and an a-moo-singly long fringe covering their eyes that enables them to survive in the harshest of temperatures.

You’ll recognise them instantly as soon as you see their long curved horns and reddish woolly coats, but you might not realise the breed isn’t restricted to one colour. If you visit different parts of Scotland you’ll see several hues of coos from deep red to black, tan, white and grey, but it’s the ginger coats that are most prevalent.

You can thank the Victorians for that as they selectively bred gingers in the late 1800s but apart from the colour, there’s no other discernable difference between cows in the breed.

Actually, it was Queen Victoria who was instrumental in the modern ginger colour as she was the one who proclaimed she preferred the look, with Scotland’s gentrified farmers subsequently going out of their way to please her.

There’s more to the straggly coat than the unusual colour though and the reason these cattle are so well suited to the Scottish Highlands is due to there being two distinct layers. First is a soft insulating down that lies close to the body, and second is a thicker outer covering of dense oily hair that protects the skin from Scotland’s frequent downpours.

As far as the origins of the distinctive curved horns go, they evolved from a need to get to the low-lying plants that are covered by a thick layer of snow in the winter months, and the animals are quite effective at clearing great swathes of snow-covered hillsides to get at the juicy plants underneath.

It’s this combination of hardiness and adaptability that makes the Highland cow so well-suited to living in the Scottish Highlands. In Scotland, they’re referred to as Heilan Coos, which is the Scots name for them, but if you really want to impress the locals, try wrapping your tongue around the Scottish Gaelic Bò Ghàidhealach .

Where Do Highland Cows Come From?

The modern Highland cow descended from a much older breed of Hamitic Longhorn that Neolithic farmers brought to Britain about 4,000 years ago. Those descendants of today’s cattle evolved over the following millennia into two distinct breeds: a large type that was common on the Scottish mainland and a smaller type that was bred on the western islands.

The large breed was able to build a sizeable body mass thanks to the amount of rich food they could eat in the (relatively) mild Highlands while the island breed (known as kyloes) stayed relatively small.

From the late 1800s, the mainland and island breeds were crossbred to create the modern Highland cow that we all know and love which is, in fact, the oldest registered cattle breed in the world having been recorded in the registers of the Highland Cattle Society all the way back in 1885. But even more impressively, descriptions of the original Highland and island cows appear in manuscripts dating to the 12th century. No wonder they’re so ingrained in Scottish culture.

How Big Are Highland Cows?

If you’ve never seen one before, you might at first be a bit intimidated by the size of the things, as they’re pretty imposing, especially with those enormous pointy horns that could do a lot of damage if they get upset. Thankfully, though, they’re very docile animals.

To adhere to the strict guidelines of the Highland Cattle Society, Highland cows must stand between 42 and 48 inches at the hip and they typically have a height at the back of around four feet with bulls coming in half a foot taller. That might not sound much but they’re stocky animals with massive heads that look much bigger in real life than those numbers suggest.

A Highland bull weighs in at an average of 1,700 pounds, while the cows weigh around 1,110 pounds, so you certainly wouldn’t want to get trampled by one – well, not unless it’s one of the show-breed miniatures that are only around three feet tall.

As for their famous curved horns, you might be able to notice that males and females have slightly different types. Bulls tend to have horns that come straight out of their heads at body level with a slight curve upwards at the tips while cows have narrower horns that curve upwards from the base of the head.

Are Highland Cows Dangerous?

Not unless you get between a mother and her calf. Highland cows have a clear social hierarchy where each one knows its place in the herd so there’s never any in-fighting, although the young bulls will start to show their dominance over the females from around the age of two.

These good-natured creatures are well known for being excellent mothers with a strong bond to their offspring, which is partly due to the fact they have a long gestation period of around 40 weeks. For the majority of the year, the heifers are quite tame, and they’ll often wander over to people either out of interest or actively seeking attention, but that behaviour changes from May to June when the calves are born.

The cows are very, very protective of their young (even before they’ve given birth) and will act aggressively towards humans if they feel their calves are threatened so my advice is to keep a respectful distance if you see youngsters in the field.

This extends to keeping your dogs (and children) on a short leash as Highland cows can quite easily become distressed by sudden movements and loud noises, making them quite unpredictable at times. Not good when combined with big horns and half a ton of body weight.

Is It OK to Pet and Feed Highland Cows?

Following on from the above question, Highland cows will frequently seek out human interaction and if you walk up to their paddock fences you’ll often see them ambling over for a good scratch. As I mentioned earlier they’re very friendly and good-natured animals so don’t be frightened to say hello, but if they’re showing obvious signs that they don’t want to be touched, i.e. they keep backing away, leave them well alone.

Because these animals are bred to be slaughtered for a profit, Scotland’s farmers will not take kindly to their livestock being harassed by dogs, and in the past, family pets have been shot when not kept under control by their owners.

It’s unlikely that will happen, as the UK law is very strict when it comes to causing any suffering to animals, but if you’re a dog owner who fails to stop your pooch from injuring a farmer’s cattle, you can be prosecuted and become liable for all costs. Basically, keep your dog on a lead at all times around farm animals.

As far as feeding them goes, unless the farmer has specifically installed signs saying not to do it they’ll be more than happy to chow down on a nice juicy clump of fresh grass but please don’t start feeding them junk food as their stomachs aren’t designed to process it.

Farmers feed them hay, green feed, and wheat or corn silage but they won’t turn their noses up at turnips and swede either. They’re very hardy and will eat most vegetation, but try not to feed them any plant material outside of their fenced area as there are several varieties of British wild plants like Pigweed and Dogbane that are poisonous to cattle.

What Are Highland Cows Used For?

Like most cows in Britain, their sole purpose in life is to provide milk and meat, both of which are top quality.

As they’re slow-growing compared to other breeds, Highland cow meat is fine textured, tender and succulent with a very low cholesterol content. In fact, scientific studies have shown that Highland beef is up to 40% lower in fat than other breeds which makes it extremely valuable to health-conscious countries like the US.

The downside to being slow-growing is that they’re expensive to rear which makes the meat a bit of a luxury in their native land, especially with competing Jersey and British White breeds being kept in far greater numbers in the rest of Britain.

One use for the venerable heilan coo is in cross-breeding where faster-growing breeds of bulls are bred with Highland cow mothers to produce offspring that have the best of both worlds – meat that’s cheaper to rear with a hardiness that allows them to survive in the unrelenting cold of the Highlands.

In addition to making crossbreeds, Highland cows are also kept for their milk which has a high butterfat content, although they’ll never be able to compete with dairy cows like Jersey’s as they only produce an average of two gallons of milk per day compared to a Jersey cow’s six gallons.

The last, unexpected use for Highland cattle is conservation grazing where they eat a variety of unmanaged plants that are unpalatable to other animals. Due to the fact they’re relatively lightweight and quite nimble (for a cow) they’re able to roam across the landscape without causing much damage while keeping unwanted plant life in check.

Facts About Highland Cows

• Their natural lifespan is around twenty years.
• There are approximately 15,000 Highland cows in the UK.
• Although most cattle in a group are called a herd, a group of Highland cows is called a fold.
• The coat of Highland cattle can grow to thirteen inches long.
• The fringe that covers a heilan coo’s eyes actually has a name – dossan .
• Strong Highland winds can blow debris into their eyes, but their long fringes help to shield them from it.
• Highland cows can produce calves up until they’re twenty years old.
• Females produce an average of 15 calves in their lifetime.
• Calves are quite small for British cattle and weigh less than 70 pounds at birth.
• The Queen has her own fold at Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire which is considered to be the finest in the world. They’re rumoured to be the only source of beef she’ll eat.
• Many locals simply refer to them as hairy coos unless it’s calves which are affectionately called fluffy coos .

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i see highland cows in scotland.

You can see Highland cows across most of Scotland but a few favourite cow-spotting areas are:

Highlands – Torridon, Plockton, Applecross. Northeast – Banchory, Aberdeenshire. Southwest – Pollock Country Park, Galloway Forest Park, Hirsel Country Park. Islands – Isle of Mull, Isle of Islay, Isle of Skye.

What are Highland cows?

Highland cows are a Scottish breed of rustic cattle known for their thick, shaggy coats and a long fringe that covers their eyes (called a dossan ) that enables them to survive in the harshest of winter temperatures.

They were selectively bred by the Victorians to have a predominantly ginger colour.

Are Highland cows dangerous?

Not unless you get between a mother and her calf, though they are generally docile and good-natured.

The females are very protective of their young and will act aggressively towards humans if they feel their calves are threatened. Also, keep dogs on a leash when walking near Highland cows.

Is it ok to pet and feed Highland cows?

They’re generally friendly animals so don’t be frightened to say hello, but if they’re showing obvious signs that they don’t want to be touched, i.e. they keep backing away from you, leave them well alone.

Farmers feed them hay, green feed, and wheat or corn silage but they also enjoy fresh grass. Some British wild plants like Pigweed and Dogbane are poisonous to cattle.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Map: Where To Find Highland Cows in Scotland

Categories Scotland

Who doesn’t want to see a Highland cow (or Heilan coo!) when they visit Scotland? These gentle fluffy beasts are synonymous with Scotland and Scottish culture, and although they live in many different parts of the world, there is something special about seeing Highland cows in Scotland!

I’ve created a map that includes my coo sightings from my travels throughout Scotland. You will find it below.

I’m constantly adding to this map whenever I find a new coo hotspot, so make sure you bookmark it and keep checking back!

Where To Find Highland Cows in Scotland

The following map shows you where to find Highlands cows in Scotland.

Click on each of the green pins for more information about each location. Some of the locations on the map are paid attractions where you can view and sometimes pet the coos!

Please note- this map isn’t definitive; farmers will move their cattle to other paddocks or entirely different destinations. Be sure to look around the area if the cows are not in the exact location of the pin.

Have you spotted a Highland cow that isn’t marked on this map? Please leave a comment with the exact location using What3Words .

Are you planning a trip to Scotland? Be sure to read my guide that walks you through planning the perfect trip to Scotland ! You also may find my Scotland packing list useful.

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Thursday 11th of January 2024

We saw Highland cows at Culloden (near ///list.safari.crumples), near Loch Ness (///extend.games.plausible), on the Isle of Harris (feasted.roadmap.ants) and at Scone Palace (jugs.fishnet.sparks).

Wednesday 8th of November 2023

Highland coos ///homecare.grew.budding

Yvette Webster

Friday 17th of November 2023

Tuesday 25th of July 2023

Muthu Newton Hotel in Nairn - There are 3 in the pasture in front of the hotel.

///detection.outnumber.friend

Monday 7th of August 2023

Hilde Vanmechelen

Monday 10th of July 2023

Wayfaring Kiwi , I saw about a dozen Highland cows at Muirfoot farm, Lanark, and they're not yet on the map, I think. Location: ///gains.vegans.hawks

Thank you Hilde! I will add this to the map. Yvette

Alison Terry Kirkpatrick

Saturday 8th of July 2023

https://w3w.co/bribing.fresh.advancing

The owner of Daviot Lodge (where we stayed) near Inverness has two big hairy coos that are in the same roadside pasture year-round.

Thanks! I just added it to the map

Fluffy Highland Cows

Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland

Scotland, with its rugged landscapes and rich history, is home to one of the most iconic cattle breeds : the Highland cow. These majestic creatures, with their long, wavy coats and curved horns, are a sight to behold.

Ready to meet some of Scotland’s most adorable and photogenic residents, the Highland cows? Or as the Scots lovingly call them, ‘Highland coos’? These hardy, yet docile animals are waiting for you across Scotland, including the islands.

If you’re in Scotland and wondering where to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants, let me take you through some top spots to get up close with them.

Where to See Highland Cows i n the North of Scotland

Start your journey in the Scottish Highlands, the heartland of Highland cows. Amidst breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find plenty of spots to see these beauties.

Bealach na Bà

Drive carefully on the Bealach Na Bà, a historic cow drover’s road between Applecross and Shieldaig. Here, you’ll likely spot free-roaming Highland cows.

North Coast 500

Along the famous North Coast 500 route, between Thurso and Durness, you’ll see Highland cows in the fields. Don’t miss the Kirkton Farm buggy tours or the cows enjoying a seaweed snack at Clachtoll Beach.

Duirinish and Plockton

Near the Isle of Skye bridge, Duirinish, a quaint Scottish village, is where you can find Highland cows roaming freely. The nearby coastal village of Plockton also offers delightful cow sightings.

Visit Cow Hill near Fort William, named after the cows historically kept there by Highlander farmers . Glen Nevis and Glen Coe are also great spots to see these majestic animals against stunning backdrops.

In the enchanting Glen Tanar, on the Cairngorms National Park’s eastern edge, you’ll see Highland cows grazing near the road. The estate offers various activities too.

Drumbuie Farm

Stay at Drumbuie Farm B&B on Loch Ness’s northern shores. It’s a working farm with Highland cattle . The northern stretch of the loch is a great place to see them in the surrounding fields.

Where to See Highland Cows in the North East of Scotland

Aberdeenshire is your go-to for both Highland cows and castles. From Royal Deeside to quaint fishing villages, this region is a treasure trove.

Macallan Distillery

Visit the Macallan Distillery in northwest Aberdeenshire and meet their herd of Highland cattle.

Kincardine Castle

Near Banchory in Royal Deeside, find Highland cattle grazing around Kincardine Castle. Enjoy a walk around the castle grounds.

Aikenshill House

Stay at Aikenshill House & Farm B&B, north of Aberdeen. Enjoy sea views, stunning beaches, and meet the herd of 22 Highland cows.

Aberdeenshire Highland Beef

For a farm and food experience, visit this working farm in Banchory. The tour includes meeting the cows and a beef tasting experience.

Where to See Highland Cows in Central Scotland

Regions like Edinburgh & The Lothians, Dundee & Angus, and others are centrally located and easily accessible from Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Muiravonside Country Park

Muiravonside, Falkirk’s only country park, offers a mini farm with Highland cattle.

Swanston Farm

Just a short drive from the bustling streets of Edinburgh, you can find pockets of serene countryside where Highland cows graze. Exploring the outskirts of the city, especially towards the Pentland Hills, can lead you to farms and pastures where these animals roam freely.

P.S. Love Harry Potter as much as you love hairy cows? Edinburgh is a must-visit for Potterheads. Explore the city where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the series. Visit The Elephant House café where she penned early novels, stroll through Greyfriars Kirkyard to spot names that inspired her characters, and walk down Victoria Street, the real-life Diagon Alley.

Glamis Castle

Near Dundee, Glamis Castle, the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, is also home to Highland cows.

Where to See Highland Cows in the South and South West of Scotland

The lowlands in the south west and the Scottish Borders offer idyllic landscapes, historic towns, and, of course, Highland cows.

Kitchen Coos and Ewes

Near Newton Stewart, visit High Airyolland farm for a tour with Janet and Neale, and meet their Highland cows and sheep.

Jacksons at Jedburgh

South of Jedburgh, enjoy a farm tour with Mr. & Mrs. Jackson and hear their stories of farm life.

Pollock Country Park

While Glasgow is known for its vibrant urban life, it’s also surrounded by green spaces that are home to Highland cattle .

Parks like Pollok Country Park offer visitors a chance to see these cows up close without venturing too far from the city. Join a guided walk with the Livestock Team and see the herd of around 50 Highland cows.

Heads of Ayr Farm Park

Just south of Ayr, meet the Highland cow family at Heads of Ayr Farm Park.

Where to See Highland Cows on the Scottish Islands

The northern and west coasts of Scotland offer dramatic scenery and great opportunities to meet Highland cows.

This collection of islands north east of the mainland is full of ancient landmarks and Highland cows near Holm.

Isle of Skye

See Highland cows wandering freely around Elgol in the south or stay at Romesdal Highlanders B&B in the north.

Lewis and Harris

On Hushinish beach and around the island, you’ll find Highland cows in scenic settings.

Isle of Barra

On Barra, Highland cows roam across fields and golden beaches.

Isle of Islay

Famous for its smoky whiskies, Islay also offers sightings of Highland cows roaming around.

Seeing Highland Cows in Scotland

In essence, Scotland offers numerous opportunities to see and interact with Highland cows. Whether you’re in a major city or traversing the countryside, these animals are a testament to the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

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From Beef to Biodiversity: What Are Highland Cows Raised For?

Highland cows, with their shaggy, rust-colored coats and distinctive long, curved horns, are a breed of cattle that have captured the hearts of many. Often referred to as “Heilan coos” in their native Scotland, these rugged and picturesque animals have a unique charm that sets them apart in the world of livestock. But what exactly…

Highland Cows. Nothing more Scottish or cute.

Where can you see Highland cows, icons of Scotland? That’s pretty easy. Highland cattle are fairly widespread and here are a few suggestions about where you can find them, as well as some background information you’ll enjoy. Often called hairy coos, their heritage stretches back to the days of the clans.

There are many icons of Scotland. Thistle, bagpipes, tartan, shortbread and so on. And the Highland cow. Yes, nothing says Scotland like this hirsute bovine. (Thought I’d get the synonym out of the way early on.)

Actually, those horns and the long fringe are a visual cliche. For instance, no Scottish commercial art gallery or gift shop is complete without a mandatory portrait of a hairy coo staring out of its frame. Tourists love ‘em.

‘The beasts’ are Hielan Coos

OK, let’s sort out the words before we start. Coo is Scots for cow. Hielan (sort of rhyming with ‘feelin”) is the way we pronounce Highland. (At least, sometimes. It depends on how Scottish we’re feelin.)

And ‘hairy’ is exactly how we pronounce ‘hairy’ – and hence hairy coos…Oh, and sometimes I’ll refer to them as ‘the beasts’. I’m not sure if that’s a ‘Scoticism’ or not, but just indulge me, will ya?

Where to See Highland Cows

I’m pretty sure that most drivers of Scottish tour buses and other tour guides have their own locations – so that when asked where Highland cows can be found, the photogenic coos are on hand nearby and guaranteed to have their clients tumbling out of their seats and trying to get selfies with them.

Hairy coo selfies are not recommended. Those horns are dangerous if your photogenic coo suddenly swings his/her head. So don’t get too close.

Just below, are a good selection of tours most of which, I’m pretty sure, will have the coos somewhere in view at some point! Take a look…

Hairy Coos – there are lots about!

OK, OK, I knew you’d want to get to the main question. You came here for some views of coos. (Actually, further down the page you’ll find some interesting stories about Highland cattle and how important they were in the Highlands.)

But for now: where can you view Highland cows? Basically: all over Scotland.

If you were to ask me the very first location that first spring to mind, then I’d say they are in the fields near the south side of Loch Achray in the heart of The Trossachs.

That’s where the A821, the Duke’s Pass road drops down to loch level (if you are coming from the south.  You can even see the beasts in this Google streetview  link of the spot. They were there the last time I looked. Honest.)

But I only unfairly mention these as they are easy to see from a main  Trossachs ‘tourist route’ , especially for day visitors from Edinburgh and Glasgow. (Heck, I hope they’re still there!)

If you want the closest to Edinburgh, then there are Highland cattle at  Swanston Farm . So, that’s where to see Highland cows within five miles (eight km) of the city centre, tucked below the Pentland Hills – the little range you see to the south of the city.

For Glasgow, it could be the Highland cattle in Pollok Country Park. Again, easy to reach from the city centre.

Where to see Highland Cows. Uhmm. In the Highlands.

Aside from three suggestions in easy to reach popular locations, there are are actually too many to list. I’ll confine myself to locations in the Highlands.

That way you get a more authentic picture – though you can see the beasts in the south of Scotland too.

At the  Rothiemurchus Highland Estate , for instance, close to popular Aviemore, you can go on a kind of coo safari to see them in the fields, with the impressive backdrop of the Cairngorms in shot as well.

Johanna reports them from the field actually adjacent to the large car park at the Culloden Visitor Centre near Inverness.

(Though even if they’re not there remember that  Culloden is a great visit  anyway.)

And totally staying on the tourist trail, they are often to be seen adjacent to the  Kilmahog Woollen Mill  at the north end of Callander, which brings us back to the Trossachs again.

Well, let’s do a few more at random. They do buggy tours at  Kirkton Farm by Melvich , west of Thurso, if you are  travelling the north coast . I’ve photographed coos on the  road to Applecross  (the low-level way) from Shieldaig. The picture from that day is higher up the page.

And I’ve had to stop for them on the unfenced road on the upper part of Glen Lyon in Perthshire. (I mean I had to stop the car as they were sitting in the road.)

Not too far away, there are quite a few places you can see them from the main A82, the road to the west, around, say, Crianlarich. They don’t sit on the road there though, fortunately.

Our favourite place for Hairy Coos

If you are heading for the  Isle of Skye  (and so many of you will be, in spite of our enthusiasm for  other Scottish islands ) then you may want to make a wee diversion to Duirinish. (It isn’t that far from the Skye Bridge if you are driving, though it also has a nearby railway station.)

This fascinating little crofting township – very much ‘all of a piece’ and almost without a jarring note, architecturally speaking, has its common grazings right in the centre of the settlement.

And that’s where to see Highland cows and sheep together. I expect you to run amok with your camera/phone – but be sensible as well and don’t get too close. And watch where you put your feet.

Oh, and we have  two pages about sheep  on this site – see the end of this paragraph. One page is about sheep in Scotland in general, the other, for real hard-core sheepoholics, is on the  North Ronaldsay seaweed-eating breed . But we’ve plenty more coo facts on this page.

In conclusion aboot coos: there is this guy in Plockton who does seal-spotting trips. He says that if you don’t see any seals from the boat you will get your money back.

I’m awfully tempted to say that  if you travel in the  Highlands of Scotland  and don’t see any Highland cattle, then you should get your money back from somebody.

But not from me, obviously, as you are learning all this stuff for nothing… (or you might like to make a wee donation!)

And now, if you want to discover more about hairy coos…read on…cute coo-pics too.

Ancestry of Highland cattle

The ‘original’ Highland cattle were comparatively small and black and sometimes called kyloes.

Some say the name derives from the association with the straits that separated, for example, Skye from the mainland, the Gaelic name for which was caolas or kyle.

And, to get to markets in the south, the cattle were driven into the water – and had to swim.

It was the original native kyloes that evolved – or were bred – into today’s Highland cattle. Though today’s animals are larger, they have the same hardiness and ability to thrive on poor ground – so they are still suited to their northern terrain.

Old Queen Vicky loved her coos

As for colour, they aren’t always red. As mentioned above, originally the native cattle were predominantly black. Some say it was Queen Victoria who remarked that she preferred them red, way back in the 1840s.

Inevitably, in the usual sycophantic please-the-monarch fashion, the reds started to be selectively bred. Vicky even had her own herd at Balmoral Castle, though I doubt she’d be seen mucking out the byre very often.

In fact, today’s Hielan Coos can be black, brindled, yellow, dun or acrylic (except that kind is usually only seen in souvenir shops) as well as red – and still be pedigreed.

Highland Cattle Droving

When more peaceable times eventually followed on, the practice of rearing beef in the north and selling it on in the south became widespread. A network of drove roads ran like arteries through Scotland and you can read all about these on our dedicated  cattle droving page .

Remember too that many of the Highlanders with cattle skills emigrated west and in turn both them and their descendants became the herders, ranchers and cowboys of the New World. (They also took their  Scottish music  with them.)

In turn, the arrival of the railways, then road transport, finished the practice of moving cattle from the Highlands on foot. But the hairy coos you see today are part of the heritage of the Highlands and a link with the old ways.

Scottish cattle droving  was once important in our economy, notably when Crieff ‘tryst’ in Perthshire was a major cattle market. Fortunes were made and lost, often the best beef went south to England. Eventually the railways arrived and ended the trade there.

So, you like cute coos, eh? Well, our sheep are nearly as photogenic…take a look.

Sheep in Scotland – in pursuit of the cute

There are more sheep than people in Scotland, so finding some cutesy ones to photograph should be easy, in Highland or Lowland. Here is a beginner’s guide to road-side  sheep-spotting in Scotland . How to tell a Blackface from a Cheviot, for instance. The clue is in the name.

OK, but  how long should I spend in Scotland  (whether or not you visit for the coos).

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Download and enjoy each ebook for the price of a (cheap) coffee from CostBucks. 

Read them off-line. (Well, you know what the signal can be like in the Highlands…)

Scotland – Know Before You Go

Midges, weather, tipping, driving, best time to visit and more…essential background for your trip to Scotland. Fully illustrated in colour but easy to read on your smartphone or e-reader.

Scotland – Where to see…

All the favourites in Scotland: Highland cows, puffins, dolphins and more  – plus top ten lists – best beaches, views, walks – positively a treasury of information to make your trip a success…

Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland (2023) Highland Cattle

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Where to find Highland Cows in Scotland: Looking for Highland Cows in Scotland? I know I was when we road-tripped Scotland ! 😅 This guide will help you to find some of these hairy-faced cuties all over the country.

When you think of Scotland, chances are you think of the tartan kilts, eccentric bagpipes, tasty shortbread and thick accents. But not for me. And not for some of you (especially if you’ve landed on this blog post).

When you think of Scotland, your mind might whirl to the fact that Scotland is the home town of some of the cutest animals on the planet; the trusty Highland cow.

Whilst I did almost cause Tom to drive into a metal gate just because I spotted a Highland cow, I have no regrets. Stopping to see these Scottish beauties was one of the highlights of our trip!

In the following post, I explain just where we found Highland cows, and where you can chase them down to see them for yourself (well not chase, as I doubt you’d win). Let’s get started!

Other Scotland posts:

• 7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know
• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Where to find Highland Cows in Scotland : A Summary

The Highland cow is a Scottish breed of cattle, found all over the UK. They are predominantly found in Scotland, in the Highlands and in the NC500 countryside. Highland cows look strikingly different to regular cows, and are most known for their shaggy hair and large, pointed horns.

Unsurprisingly, most tourists visiting Scotland love spotting Highland cows (including myself), and you can find Highland cows as soft toys, magnets, and bookmarks in any touristic shop.

Note that you can find Highland cows all over Scotland, not just in the locations below. These are just some of the best!

Interesting facts about Highland cows

🐄 Highland cows aren’t always the rich ginger you may think of them to be. Quite often they are white, yellow, black and a darker shade of orange.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scottish Highland cow’s most famous asset is their shaggy hair. It can grow as long as 13 inches! This extra layer keeps them warm when the temperature drops.

🐮 Their long and recognisable horns help them to forage for food during the Scottish snowy seasons.

🐄 A group of highland cows are not called a herd, but a ‘fold’ instead. 

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Highland cows are known to be caring mothers to their young, and can live for as long as 20 years!

🐮 A Scottish Highland cow mother can birth around 12 little calves.

🐄 The larger-than-life, Scottish highland cows are the oldest cattle breed in the world. 

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 While they may look intimidating at first, highland cows are actually very gentle creatures.

Best places to see Highland cows in Scotland

1) the a896 into applecross (from bealach na ba).

I spotted these Highland cows on the side of the road entering Applecross , and it was one of my favourite finds. There were at least seven of them grazing on the long grass, without a care in the world.

The spot is quiet, so we were able to pull over and get some great pics of the cows from about two metres away.

Unfortunately, there were no calves at the time we visited, but we found a few shaggy redheads, a white and even some black highland cows. A must-do for anyone in search of hairy coos!

Related post: Road-tripping Scotland? Check out my epic 7-day road trip route for the adventure of a lifetime!

2) Duirinish (near the Skye Bridge)

Next was a town called Duirinish, where we saw a few ginger highland cows roaming behind a metal gate. They were a bit further away than the ones in Applecross, but we did manage to see a few baby calves (who made the drive worth it!)

Park in the centre of the village, and walk past the small cafe (the village is tiny, you’ll know where I mean as soon as you visit). Just beyond the cafe is a large turf where the cows will be grazing.

Rumour has it, they sometimes let the cows roam free around the village, so you could be lucky and get an even closer look! It’s a great place to find Highland cows in Scotland.

Related post: In search of some magic? If you’re on the Isle of Skye, check out my guide for the enchanted fairy pools 🧚🏼‍♂️.

3) The NC500 between Applecross and the Torridon Mountains

One of our funniest and best locations for spotting a highland cow was on the NC500, around 10 minutes north of Applecross. Through pure chance, we managed to catch an Alpha highland cow randomly on the side of the road when we were driving towards the Torridon mountains.

Drive north from Applecross, the road is a single stretch, you won’t miss them, and there was a small huddle of them further in the distance from the Alpha. 

If you’re lucky, they’ll be close to a layby or somewhere that you can pull over. Be sure to stay safe and not block up any passing places just to have a photo with a highland cow! (We may or may not have done this).

4) The Old Church House B&B, Isle of Skye

Near the Skye bridge, we managed to spot a few Highland cows behind a metal gate, grazing on the grass around them. We saw around three Highland cows here, and they were all ginger in colour. Sadly, no baby cows were at this location (but who knows when you visit!) 

The cows were so peaceful here and even began running off into the distance like some sort of rom-com when we left. It was quite a picture!

5) Rothiemurchus Highland Estate

In the Rothiemurcus Estate (which is one of my favourite places in Scotland, for other reasons than just the highland cows), you can spot a number of the impressive beasts dotted around the park with an incredible backdrop of the Cairngorms National Park. Here you’ll find many highland cows – ginger, white, black, and most importantly, incredibly shaggy.

Related post: Visiting Aviemore , one of the best towns in the Cairngorms? Check out my full Aviemore guide first!

6) Swanston Farms

Close to the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, Swanston Farm is a good place to see highland cows. It’s a short drive from the town centre and is even accessible via public transport. The farm has a whole herd to see, and it also has some good hikes and walks to do when you visit!

It is the best place to see highland cows if you are staying in Edinburgh .

7) Kilmahog and Loch Lomond

On the road towards Loch Lomond, you can find Kilmahog’s Trossachs Woolen Mill  and a Highland cow farm. The farm protects highland cows and has become a local tourist attraction. You can stop off at the farm to see the herd of highland cows and support the farm on your way to Loch Lomond.

Where to find Highland cows: FAQs

1) what does a highland cow look like.

A giant beast . I’m kidding, but it is the most impressive-looking cow you can possibly find. Wild, rugged, and intimidating, these fellas have shaggy hair all over their bodies and are known for their two large protruding horns sticking out the side of their heads. 

The baby coos (coo is Scots for cow) won’t have horns until they are adults, but they have even shaggier faces and are even cuter than their parents. When you see one with your own eyes, you’ll get it. 

2) Are highland cows dangerous?

No . These gentle giants have a friendly nature, but can be easily spooked, so make sure you’re careful around them and their babies (and use common sense).

3) Do we eat highland cows?

Yes. Highland cow meat is exceptionally good quality. With 40% less fat and cholesterol than normal beef, the highland cows are well sought after.

4) Where can I find Highland cows in the UK?

There are Highland cows all over the UK, but Scotland is one of the best places to find them. Other locations in the UK where you can spot Highland cows include Kent, East Sussex and East Anglia.

5) Can you touch Highland cows?

Whilst you can get relatively close to a Highland cow, it’s best not to touch one. They’re large, heavy creatures, and if they don’t like it, you could be in trouble.

6) What is the Highland cow called in Scottish?

The Scottish term for a Highland cow is ‘Heilen Coo’. You will often hear Scots referring to the cows as ‘coos’, which just makes them seem even cuter!

7)  Do you need a car to visit Scotland?

If you can, take a car for a road trip around Scotland. You don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport, and it isn’t that reliable.

Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! ➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Where to find Highland Cows in Scotland: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about where to find Highland cows in Scotland. When you’re planning a trip to Scotland,  make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at  first-time backpackers on a budget.   I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend  (read more  here !), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Scotland content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

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MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Or just go to Kitchen Coos and Ewes near Stranraer in Scotland for a Highland Cow Tour. 🙂 A great way to get up close and personal with them with permission! They are fabulous!

Ah amazing – thank you so much!

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Best Places To See Highland Cows In Scotland (Near Edinburgh)

Posted on Published: November 30, 2019  - Last updated: December 5, 2023

Categories Europe , Scotland

I won’t lie, my main priority was to see highland cows in Scotland during my trip there.

So, to make my dream a reality, I did quite a bit of research and realized it might be harder than I thought. But turns out, if you know where to go it’s not that hard at all!

I ended up spotting them quite a few times, sometimes without even trying to! So I’m going to go over the best places to see highland cows in Scotland. Most of these are pretty close to Edinburgh too if that’s the only place you’re visiting in Scotland (check out these nearby castle ruins too !).

Let’s be real, everyone needs to witness the beauty of these beasts at least once in person!

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Useful Resources To Plan Your Scotland Vacation

Digital & Printable Travel Planner :  Afternoon Tea Reads The Shoppe

Book plane tickets:   Skyscanner   |  britishairways.com Book hotels:   Booking.com  |  Expedia Rent a car:   Enterprise Find A Tour:   Viator.com

A Bit About Highland Cows

Highland cows, or “hairy coos” as locals like to call them, are born and bred in Scotland. They’re built to withstand the harsh Highland weather. So that beautiful hair we’re jealous of isn’t just for looks.

They actually have two layers of hair; a thick undercoat to keep them warm, and a top layer to keep them dry in the rain.

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Are Highland Cows Only In Scotland?

Nowadays, you can find highland cows elsewhere in the world. They’ve started to export them to other countries with harsh weather. So you might be able to spot them in Ireland, or even some places in the United States. I’ve even seen them in Quebec Canada!

Where to See Highland Cows Near Edinburgh: Swanston Farms

If you’re in Edinburgh and aren’t planning on visiting the Highlands, don’t worry you’ll still be able to see authentic highland cows near Edinburgh.

Swanston farm  has a small herd of highland cows in Scotland, and it’s accessible from Edinburgh by bus or car. It’s part of Pentland Hills, so it makes a nice half or full day trip from the city.

You can visit the coos, go for a hike, and in my opinion, get the best skyline view of Edinburgh.

How To Get To Swanston Farms By Bus: Highland Cows Edinburgh

There are three buses you can take that will drop you off about a 10-15 minute walk from the farm (the 4, 5, or 16 depending on where you’re coming from). The walk is very easy, through a suburb town. The entire, journey will be about 45 minutes to an hour. But it’s all worth it to see Highland cows near Edinburgh!

In case you don’t have change, you can buy your ticket on board with a contactless credit card.

You might also be interested in reading…

Top 10 Edinburgh Hidden Gems You Won’t Want Miss

The Hike To the Highland Cows Near Edinburgh

To get to the cows, it’s a short hike uphill. but it starts at the brewery parking lot. There’s a small forest with a path at the end of the lot. You’ll walk by a few houses, and then the golf course. When you see the fork in the road, you’ll want to choose the path on the left that goes up the hill.

If you’re unsure where to go, don’t be afraid to go into the brewery to ask for directions. Just tell them you’re interested in seeing the cows and they’ll direct you on the right path. It’s also a good spot to go for lunch after your mini hike. 

There are also two gates along the hike that you’ll have to open to continue along the path. 

Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland: The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond is part of the Trossachs National Park and it’s the start of the Highland region in Scotland. It’s a necessary addition to any trip to the Highlands, but it’s also doable on a day trip from Edinburgh (about a 2 hour drive).

Driving in Scotland: What No One Tells You

Feed Highland Cows In Scotland In Kilmahog

On the route around Loch Lomond you’ll drive by the town of Kilmahog. Right off the main road, you’ll be able to see the highland cows in Scotland.

If you’re prepared, there’s a parking lot right next to the cows you can pull into. Each time I drove by, people were right up close to them and even feeding them!

The Best Scottish Castle Ruins To Visit Near Edinburgh

Wild Sighting On A Hike Up Conic Hill (Near Loch Lomond)

If you’re up for a small hike in Scotland then this will be the most rewarding hairy coo spotting during your time in Scotland.

In Balmaha, Conic Hill is one of the easier peaks to reach, only about 45 minutes each way. But, when we were about halfway up, we turned the corner to find a giant highland cow standing in the middle of the path. We were able to walk right up to it (these are still animals, so try not to get too close to them).

The highland cow eventually started to move (very slowly) but he led us right to the rest of his herd! There were 10 other highland cows overlooking Loch Lomond below.

The downside is that because this isn’t a fenced-in area, the cows might not always be there. But regardless, I’d still recommend the hike because the views are nevertheless incredible.

Best Places To See Highland Cows In The Highlands

If you’re driving through the Highlands, you’ll be able to spot quite a few highland cows in the farms around you. But the problem is that it’s hard to stop at most of these.

Go On An Organized Tour To The Highlands

Go on the ultimate Highland Full day tour from Edinburgh that takes you to Glencoe and Loch Ness to search for Nessie!

See the tour on Viator here .

Or click here for more organized day trips from Edinburgh.

Stopping To See The Ben Nevis Highland Cows

The only farm we were able to stop at (and get relatively close to) was a farm near Ben Nevis Brewery. We initially drove right by them but not too far up the road there was a roundabout (probably the only time I was happy to see one while driving in Scotland !).

We were able to park in the gas station across the street and go visit them (just be careful when crossing).

I’ll admit, seeing Highland cattle with Ben Nevis (Scotland’s biggest mountain) in the background isn’t a bad sight at all!

Need A Place To Stay In Edinburg? Hotel Recommendations

I stayed at an Airbnb for a month in Edinburgh just across from The Meadows. For shorter stays, I found these accommodations to stay at for every type of traveller.

Best Location & Price : Just down the street from the Royal Mile Motel One Edinburgh – Roya l is a short walk to all the main attractions. See room rates & availability .

Modern & New Apartment: Stay in Edinburgh’s New Town at Golden Thistle Apartment to live like a local. It’s offers a beautifully renovated modern apartment with cafes and bars at your fingertips! See room rates & availability on Plum Guide .

Luxury : The Balmoral Hotel is Edinburgh’s finest hotel but nothing compares to it. J.K. even stayed here to finish writing the Harry Potter Series. Maybe you’ll get lucky and stay in the same suite! See room rates & availability .

See other accommodations on Booking.com in Edinburgh , or more apartments on Plum Guide .

My Scotland Travel Amazon Must-Haves!

Shop my scotland day trip amazon must-haves.

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My Scotland Guides To Read

• How to Spend a Day in North Berwick   [From Edinburgh]
• How to Drive From Edinburgh to St. Andrews
• How To Drive Through The Scottish Borders in a Day [From Edinburgh]
• The Best Castles To Visit Near Edinburgh
• What I Wish I’d Known Before Driving in Scotland
• Top Edinburgh Attractions
• Edinburgh Hidden Gems
• Edinburgh Fun Facts
• Scotland Souvenirs To Bring Back
• Is Leith Worth Visiting?

Share the Hairy Coo Love!

Let me know if you’ve spotted highland cows anywhere else in Scotland near Edinburgh! And why not Pin it to let others know where to find them!?

Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Duke Dinesen

Wednesday 1st of April 2020

What a wonderful post! This is so chock full of useful information I can not wait to dig deep and start using the resources you've given me.

Friday 3rd of April 2020

Thanks! That's awesome :)

Tania Muthusamy

Friday 6th of December 2019

The Hairy Coos are beautiful looking animals, and those horns are magnificent. I would love to see these in their natural environment. A trip to Edinburgh would be amazing.

Aren't they just!? Perhaps your next vacation then! :)

These guys are so cute! I remember seeing them during my couple of visits to Scotland and they were definitely a highlight as well!

Glad to hear you were able to see these beautiful beasts as well :)

Rhonda Albom

Thursday 5th of December 2019

I love these cows. They are adorable. I only saw a few in the distance when I visited Scotland. My daughter is a real fan of the highland cows and even uses a photo of one as her screen saver. Seeing them at the farm at Ben Nevis is a good tip.

No way that's awesome! I mean they are really adorable so definitely warranted to have as a screen saver image!

I love your post and the photos. Honestly I've never known about Highland cows until I read your post. So, thanks for sharing.

I must've been lucky when I was in Scotland, I saw Hairy Coos everywhere!

Thanks, so glad I could share!

Highland Cows

One of the most iconic symbols of Scotland has to be the Highland cow, or - as they're sometimes affectionately known - the 'Highland coo' or even 'hairy coo'.

With their long horns and distinctive long 'hairy' coats, usually orange or light brown in colour, they're easy to spot and you'll find them all over Scotland (and indeed in various places across the world) but particularly in the west, where the breed originated.

Highland cattle are hardy and very versatile, and can live in a variety of conditions and on a range of different types of ground. They are also calm in temperament and have few health problems, making them comparatively easy to care for.

For detailed information on the breed standards, visit the Highland Cattle Society's website, which keeps a register and holds sales, shows, competitions and events throughout the year. Their guide tells you everything that a Highland cow should be! The society was formed in 1884 for the preservation of the breed, and now also supports the next generation of Highland cattle breeders, keepers and promoters through the Junior Highlanders.

As well as looking gorgeous, the milk and meat from Highland cattle is very special. For excellent Highland cow steak, visit the Old Inn near Appin , around 25 minutes north of Oban on the west coast. For ice cream made from the milk of Highland cattle, visit Highland Fold at Achinreir farm near Barcaldine on the A828 towards Fort William.

If you can't get enough of Highland cows, check out the hashtag #coosday on social media every Tuesday - guaranteed to make you smile with cute pictures of these lovely creatures.

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Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland

29 Mar, 2021

Scotland’s Highland cows are as iconic as the Loch Ness Monster, Edinburgh Castle, and that wee haggis we’re so famous for eating. You won’t find a shortage of Highland cow souvenirs to bring back home with you. From soft toys to slippers to all variety of books, keychains, clothing, and more. We do adore our hairy coos (as we call them in Scots), but there’s something about these scruffy beasts that makes visitors just go wild!

We’ll admit it, though: seeing Highland cows in Scotland feels like a must-do for any international visitor to our shores. So, hop in and let’s tour Scotland to see some of our favourite shaggy-haired neighbours.

If you’re keen to see Highland cows as part of a tailor-made tour of Scotland , we’d be delighted to show you the most extraordinary vistas, share with you the incredible history, and take you to the most jaw-dropping sites Scotland has to offer. Get in touch if you have special requests for your Scotland trip and let’s make your visit everything you hope it could be!

All About Scotland’s Highland Cows

Highland cows are unique for their double layer of hair that allows them to thrive in our sometimes harsh conditions in Scotland. The thick undercoat keeps them warm, while an oily top layer helps keep them dry in our infamous wet climate.

Another important feature that makes them well-suited to the local environment is their curved, long horns. Coos use those to dig into frozen ground come winter, searching for roots when nothing can grow above ground.

While Highland cows are famous for their wavy ginger locks, did you know there are also black or white Highland cows? It’s said that Queen Victoria preferred the ginger colour, so that became more commonly bred in her time. But you’ll still see some other colours about Scotland — all hairy coos alike!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by VisitScotland (@visitscotland)

Get to know Scotland’s national treasure: the heilan coo ! With their stylish fringes, cool horns, and docile personalities, Scotland’s Highland cow is instantly recognisable and admired the world over. 

Come meet one in person! If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll even see an adorable calf, too.

Among the lochs, mountains, castles, and historic towns, a trip around Scotland wouldn’t be complete without getting to know the locals. You’ll have no trouble bumping into some friendly Scots on your travels, but where can you catch a glimpse of the majestic Highland coo? 

Visit Scotland created a handy guide on top locations for spotting heilan coos from the northern tip of the country to the English border. We’re lucky to see these beauties regularly on our luxury tours of Scotland ! If you’re keen to combine some Scottish exploring with a little wildlife safari (when it’s safe to do so), then here are our favourite ways to meet a Highland cow.

Take a Scottish Highlands Tour

Where better to see Highland cows in Scotland than where they first originated? As far back as the 6th century, there are records of these iconic animals in the Scottish Highlands. Steeped in history and breathtaking scenery, you’re spoilt for choice with coo spotting opportunities in the Highlands. 

On our Essential Scotland Tour , we cover everywhere from Inverness (Loch Ness Monster spotting opportunities, too!), to The Cairngorms (perfect for Scottish snowsports), to the breathtaking landscape of the Isle of Skye. 

Yup, hairy coos have managed to migrate off the mainland to the islands and further afield, too.

You’ll have plenty of chances to observe the coos roaming in the wild — even having a stroll around the historic villages of Duirinish or Plockton. 

They’re well-natured, docile creatures. Do make sure to give them plenty of space, however, especially if they’re with calves as they’re extremely protective. 

Tour Scotland’s Two Cities

Highland cows aren’t solely found exploring rugged terrain in Scotland — though it does suit them! You can actually catch a glimpse of our beloved hairy coos on a city tour. 

Edinburgh and Glasgow are Scotland’s lowland cities that boast plenty of visitor attractions. Including — if you know where to look — Highland cows. 

Spend time in Glasgow coupling a distillery tour with some wildlife spotting. The Auchentoshan distillery is just a short drive from the city centre and is surrounded by free-roaming ginger coos! 

Or treat yourself to a luxury afternoon tea with a coo view in Edinburgh, at the breathtakingly beautiful Prestonfield House. You might also be lucky to spot a peacock or two, too.

Combine all this with medieval architecture, luxury accommodation and even visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is instantly recognisable for Harry Potter fans! This Two Cities tour has it all.

Venture Along Scotland’s North Coast 500

The NC500 is the ultimate Scottish road trip! We also have lots of other suggestions for the best car drives in Scotland that will get you anxious to explore.

Driving the north coast of Scotland, you’ll see the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters that remind many visitors of the Caribbean. Journey along the rugged coast, exploring traditional crofting cottages and historic towns. 

And, somewhere along the way, you’re sure to come across a wild roaming Highland coo (or ten). This is where it’s best to have a professional driver-guide taking care of you — those coos can block the entire road just round a bend! We’re quite used to the driving hazards and challenges of remote areas of Scotland, however, so just sit back and bask in the views of coastline and coos!

Take a look at our North Coast 500 and Culloden Tour to see the highlights!

One of our favourite highlights from this tour is the Culloden battlefield site. Explore the story of the Jacobites’ final battle at the visitor’s centre, and enjoy some cow spotting by the adjacent field. 

We can’t wait to share our bonnie wee country with you. Until you can join us on a tour of Scotland to see Highland cows in person, we’ll leave you with this Coo Cam to keep you excited for your future meeting with these iconic animals!

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Posted by David D. on 5th Oct 2021

WHERE TO SEE HIGHLAND COWS IN SCOTLAND

One of the most sought-after Scottish experiences our visitors can’t seem to get enough of is meeting Scotland’s hairy and loveable Highland cows. Or as we Scots call them, Highland coos!

Iconic, cute and extremely photogenic, these hardy yet docile animals can be found right across Scotland, including the islands. Depending on where in Scotland you’re visiting, we’ve put together some top picks in a country-wide guide for getting up close to them.

Starting from the north and working south, then the islands, and finishing with fun-filled agricultural shows…

NORTH SCOTLAND

The Glenlivet estate and distillery

The famous Scottish Highlands , where Highland cows originate from, is undoubtably a great place to see them. Amongst the epic and jaw-dropping landscapes, you’re spoiled for locations to pick from!

• Thurso to Durness : See Highland cows in fields along the renowned North Coast 500 route between Thurso and Durness. On this stretch, Kirkton Farm offers buggy tours around their Highland cattle farm. Or further along the western stretch of the NC500 route, you might see Highland cows enjoying a seaweed picnic at Clachtoll Beach .
• Duirinish or Plockton : Very close to the Isle of Skye bridge, Duirinish is a small and traditional Scottish village where you can find Highland cows roaming around freely. Also nearby is the beautiful coastal village of Plockton, where Highland cows are also free to roam around the village!
• Applecross : One of the best known spots for a guaranteed sighting of free-roaming Highland cows is the minor coastal road called Bealach Na Ba, a historical cow drover’s road running between Applecross and Shieldaig . Do drive carefully!
• Fort William and around Ben Nevis: See Highland cows in the fields around historic Cow Hill at the edge of Fort William. It’s named after the cows which have always historically been kept there by Highlander farmers. Glen Nevis and Glen Coe are also great spots where you’re likely to see Highland cows living amongst the stunning backdrops.
• Ardnamurchan : On the gloriously green north west coast near Fort William, Highland cattle wander freely around the area of Ardnamurchan and at nearby Sanna beach .
• The Glenlivet Distillery : If you plan on visiting the world-famous Glenlivet Distillery in the north of the Cairngorms National Park, look out for Highland cattle in the area’s surrounding fields.
• Rothiemurchus Estate , Aviemore: Located in the north of the Cairngorms National Park just outside Aviemore, Rothiemurchus is a woodland estate with a castle and wildlife – and most importantly – plenty of Highland cows! You can even take a Hairy Coo Safari starting from the Rothiemurchus Centre.
• Ruthven Barracks , Kingussie: The atmospheric ruins of the Ruthven Barracks are located in the west of the Cairngorms National Park. They are surrounded by grazing land where you can see Highland cows, roaming around the barracks in this very picturesque landscape. Also nearby, meet the Highland cows that happily greet visitors at the fascinating Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore.
• Uvie Farm : Visit Uvie Farm in the west of the Cairngorms National Park, which breeds Highland cows. You can see both adult cows and calves, and even stay there if you’d like!
• Glen Tanar : See Highland cows grazing in fields near the road in enchanting Glen Tanar, on the eastern periphery of the Cairngorms National Park. Glen Tanar estate offers various activities too.
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre : Highland cows are kept in a field at the entrance to the famous Culloden Battlefield, which is located a short drive east of Inverness and is a fascinating place to delve into the past. Also nearby, north east of Inverness, visit the delightful Muthu Newton Hotel in Nairn. You can see Highland cows grazing in the hotel’s surrounding parkland and enjoy beautiful sea views.
• Cardhu Distillery : Approximately an hour drive to the south east of Inverness, a small herd of Highland cattle graze in the fields beside Cardhu Distillery.
• Drumbuie Farm , Loch Ness: Stay at Drumbuie Farm B&B on the northern shores of the mystical Loch Ness, which is also a working farm with Highland cattle. The northern stretch of the loch is generally a good place to see Highland cows in the surrounding fields.
• The Cameron’s Tea Room and Farm Shop , Loch Ness: Located on the southern side of Loch Ness, the fields beside the charming Cameron’s Tea Room and Farm Shop is home to a friendly herd of Highland cows.

NORTH EAST SCOTLAND

Aikenshill House

Aberdeenshire is a great place to spot both highland cows and castles, having the greatest density of castles anywhere in the country! From stunning Royal Deeside, to quaint traditional fishing villages on the coast, this region has much to enjoy. Check out Scotland’s Castle Trail for more inspiration.

• Macallan Distillery : Located in the north west of Aberdeenshire, if you visit the renowned Macallan Distillery, be sure to take a walk around the estate and meet the distillery’s own herd of Highland cattle.
• Kintore Castle Fold : A working farm located by the village or Laurencekirk, just a 20-minute drive from Stonehaven and the iconic Dunnottar Castle , owners John and Jenne Singer welcome visitors to learn about their Highland cows. If time allows, they will even halter the cows for visitors to pet, walk, groom and feed them – and of course get a photo taken! Their herd is predominantly the rarer black highland cows.
• Crathes Castle : Located in stunning Royal Deeside, you can find Highland cows located in a field on the right side of Crathes Castle’s entrance driveway, and enjoy the wonderful walks around the castle and grounds. Also nearby is Drum Castle and the historic town of Banchory .
• Kincardine Castle : A short drive west of Banchory in Royal Deeside, find Highland cattle grazing in the fields surrounding Kincardine Castle, and enjoy a walk around the castle grounds.
• Meldrum House Hotel : Located a 30-minute drive north of Aberdeen, you can meet the adorable herd of Highland cattle that graze in the beautiful grounds of Meldrum House Hotel.
• Aikenshill House : Stay at Aikenshill House & Farm B&B, just a 20-minute drive north of Aberdeen, where you can enjoy sea views, unspoiled stretches of stunning beaches nearby, and get to know the herd of 22 Highland cows which belong to the owners!

CENTRAL SCOTLAND

The regions of Dundee & Angus , The Kingdom of Fife , Argyll , Perthshire , Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley are located centrally in the heart of Scotland – stretching from the west to east coasts. These regions are easily accessible from the largest cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh.

• Glamis Castle : Approximately a 20-minute drive north of Dundee, Glamis Castle is the legendary setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth , and the surrounding grounds are also home to some Highland cows.
• Balgove Larder Farm Shop , St Andrews: Located on the edge of St Andrews in Fife, the fabulous Balgove Larder Farm Shop (with a café and restaurant) is worth a stop – not only for the delicious food, but also to meet the friendly Highland cows in the field just outside. Also nearby, Upper Largo is a 30-minute drive from St Andrews, where cows graze around the hill of Largo Law – an ancient volcano. Try a pleasant walk from the village of Upper Largo to the summit and back.
• Taste Perthshire : This delightful shop and restaurant known not only for its wonderful food made from locally sourced Scottish produce, but also its small herd of Highland cows that are on hand nearby to greet visitors. Or further north west of Taste Perthshire, Aberfeldy and the magical Glen Lyon are lovely spots to go Highland cow spotting – and perhaps even find them taking a bath in the river!
• Blair Castle : Located north of Perth, a short drive from Pitlochry and The House of Bruar , see Highland cattle in the surrounding fields as you approach Blair Castle.
• Scone Palace : Located a short drive north of Perth, beautiful Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings, and also home to Highland cows in the surrounding grounds.
• Stirling Castle : Living in the fields below the iconic Stirling Castle, Highland cows graze happily, offering some amazing photo opportunities with the castle in the background! Take the footpath down from the castle to find them.
• Luss Estates Company , Loch Lomond: Luss Estates Company in the south west of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park welcomes visitors to meet their herd of Highland cattle. Highland cows can also be seen grazing around nearby Loch Goil. Or Kilmahog Woollen Mill , in the eastern periphery of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park , has Highland cows in the field outside. (Note that the Trossach Woollen Mill is also very nearby on the same road, in case of confusion.)
• Loch Achray : A 20-minute drive west from Kilmahog in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, highland cows can be found in the fields near Loch Achray Hotel, located on the west side of this very picturesque loch.
• Ardardan Estate : Approximately an hour’s drive north west of Glasgow, Ardardan Estate is a great place to not only visit their farm shop, garden nursery and café – but also enjoy a walk in the beautiful grounds which are home to a herd of Highland cows.

EDINBURGH AND THE LOTHIANS

If you’ve come to visit the landmark capital city of Edinburgh , there are places in the city and surrounding Lothians region where you can meet some Highland cows while you’re here.

• Prestonfield House : Situated to the south side of Holyrood Park, you don’t even need to leave the city to see some Highland cows. The luxurious Prestonfield House is a hotel with its own small herd within the grounds, and also some beautiful peacocks too.
• Swanston Farm : Located in the Pentland Hills to the west side of Edinburgh, Swanston Farm is a favourite with visitors. Enjoy the beautiful views of the hills and city, while meeting the farm’s lovely herd of Highland cows.
• Beecraigs Country Park : Just to the east of the city, on the outskirts of charming town of Linlithgow, Beecraigs Country Park has a herd of Highland cattle in the livestock area beside the visitor centre. You can also see some majestic red deer and Scottish Hebridean sheep.
• Smeaton Estate : Located less than an hour drive east of the city, between the villages of North Berwick and Dunbar, Smeaton Estate is home to some Highlands cows. Enjoy the beautiful parkland, woodland and lake, visit their traditional nursery garden and tea room, or stay for longer in one of the lovely holiday cottages.

SOUTH & SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND

The lowlands in the south west of Scotland and the Scottish Borders have idyllic countryside landscapes, and many historic towns and villages to explore. Plus plenty of Highland cows to see too of course!

• Auchentoshan Distillery : Located north west of Glasgow, Auchentoshan Distillery has Highland cattle grazing in the fields outside.
• Pollock Country Park , Glasgow: On the southern periphery of Glasgow city, the fantastic Pollock Country Park features many great attractions, including a herd of Highland cows that live within the grounds.
• Heads of Ayr Farm Park : Located just south of Ayr, Heads of Ayr Farm Park has its own adorable Highland cow family just waiting to meet you, among a wide variety of others animals!
• Blackstone Clydesdales : A 30-minute drive inland from Ayr, stop in at Blackstone Clydesdales farm and meet their adorable collection of farm animals, which includes a herd of Highland cows. If you’re feeling brave, why not try some horse riding too!
• Galloway Forest Park : Located in the region of Dumfries & Galloway , Galloway Forest Park is the largest forest park anywhere in the UK. It has areas of farmland where you can see Highland cattle grazing. Find out more about the local walking routes too.
• Kitchen Coos & Ewes : Further west of Galloway Forest Park, near Newton Stewart, is Kitchen Coos & Ewes at High Airyolland farm. Owners Janet and Neale are delighted to introduce visitors to their Highland cows (and sheep) on an educational buggy tour of the farm, where you can see the cows happily grazing across the beautiful hills of south Scotland, then enjoy some traditional farmhouse baking and hospitality afterwards!
• Willamwood Farm Country Cottages : Located east of the town of Dumfries, stay in one of the homely cottages at Willamwood Farm Country Cottages and enjoy meeting the Highland cows living at this beautiful working farm.
• The Hirsel Country Park , Coldstream: Right on the very border of Scotland and England near the east coast, enjoy a walk through the lovely Hirsel Country Park, and look out for the Estate’s herd of Highland Cattle. Along the way you can see the estate’s magnificent country house, and visit their museum and tearoom.

The islands along the northern and west coasts of Scotland offer dramatic scenery and some great opportunities to meet Highland cows roaming freely. Here are just some of the options, but any of the main inhabited islands are home to Highland cows.

Starting from the north and working south…

• Orkney : This collection of islands is just north east of the mainland, and full of ancient landmarks. Orkney makes a great additional stop if you’re doing the North Coast 500 route. Highland cows have been spotted near Holm – but they shouldn’t be too hard to find. Catch a ferry from Scrabster, or fly from a Scottish city airport.
• Lewis and Harris : One of the larger islands, Hushinish beach is a very scenic spot to see Highland cows on Lewis and Harris, however you’ll be able to see them in fields around the island. Catch a ferry from Ullapool, the Isle of Skye, or fly from a Scottish city airport.
• Isle of Skye : See Highland cows wandering freely on unfenced roads around Elgol in the south of the Isle of Skye. Or stay at Romesdal Highlanders B&B in the north, where you can enjoy seeing the Highland cows and beautiful views from the window. There is a road bridge crossing, and you can also catch a ferry from Mallaig.
• Barra : Highland cows wander across fields and golden beaches on the beautiful island gem of Barra. Fly from a Scottish city airport (and experience landing on a beach!), or take a ferry from Oban.
• Isle of Mull: With plenty of Highland cow sightings on the Isle of Mull, they can be quite easily found. If you have a car, try the grounds surrounding Glengorm Castle hotel at the north of the island, where the Glengor Standing Stones are. You can take a ferry from Oban to get there.
• Isle of Iona : Around the beautiful Iona Abbey, on the compact Isle of Iona, you’ll see Highland cows wandering. Take a ferry from Fionnphort in the south west of the Isle of Mull.
• Isle of Islay : Renowned for its smoky whiskies, find Highland cows roaming happily around the Isle of Islay as you enjoy taking in the views. Fly from a Scottish city airport, or take a ferry from Kennacraig.

AGRICULTURAL SHOWS

A popular spring/summer day out in Scotland, agricultural shows are always a highlight in the regional areas – and Highland cows invariably feature in the shows! They are a great place to enjoy Scottish heritage, try our delicious local food produce, and buy crafts.

Again, starting to the north and working south…

• Black Isle Show , Inverness (August): Black Isle Show is a 1-day event held in August at Mannsfield Showground near Inverness. It offers an exciting variety of animals, displays, exhibits and stalls – including a food and craft hall, and crafts such as wool spinning demonstrations.
• The Turriff Show , Aberdeenshire (August): The largest show in northern Scotland, The Turriff Show 2-day event is a must-see, and even The Queen has attended. This show has everything, from animal displays, competitions, food and drink, entertainment, and a wide range of stalls to do some shopping.
• Banchory Show , Aberdeenshire (July): The 200-year-old Banchory Show is a 1-day event held in July in King George V Show Park. From farm livestock to highland dancing, falconry displays and a dog show, a great day out is guaranteed.
• The Angus Show (June): The Angus Show is a 2-day event held in June at Brechin Castle near Dundee. With animal shows, machinery displays, bike skill shows, crafts and bouncy castles, there’s lots for everyone to enjoy.
• Perth Show (August): Perth Show is a 2-day event held in August in the city grounds of South Inch, featuring animals, entertainment, stalls selling sweets to huge tractors, and many things in between.
• The Fife Show (May): Held just beside Cupar at Kinloss House, The Fife Show is a 1-day event held in May each year, showcasing a wide range of farm animals and delicious Scottish food and drink stalls.
• The Drymen Show , Loch Lomond (May): The Drymen Show is a 1-day event held in May in the village of Drymen, located to the south of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The show has a large variety of animal displays, activities and attractions for a hugely entertaining day out.
• The Royal Highland Show , Edinburgh (June): The largest of the agricultural shows, The Royal Highland Show is a real highlight in June. This 4-day event has everything from competitions, demonstrations and displays, to music, shopping, horse show jumping and ‘Scotland’s Larder Live’ – a showcase of Scotland’s best food and drink.
• The Border Union Show , Scottish Borders (July): Held at the Borders Events Centre in Kelso, The Border Union Show is a 2-day event in July. There’s so much to see, with various animal and art competitions, 200 trade stalls, a food fair with bars, a craft and gifts marquee, and children’s fun fair.
• Dumfries Show (August): Held at The Show Fields in Dumfries in August, the 1-day Dumfries Show includes attractions from animal displays, trade stalls, art and music, to horse show jumping and vintage farm machinery.
• #Celtic Scotland
• #HIGHLAND COWS
• #HIGHLAND COWS IN SCOTLAND
• #Scottish Highland

Top 7 Places to See Highland Cows in Scotland

18 dec 2023.

It’s hard to think of Scotland without one iconic image immediately coming to mind: our beloved Highland ‘coos’.  

With their shaggy coats and iconic horns, these photogenic beasts are popular with tourists and locals alike. And there are several places around the country where you can go and see them for yourself! 

Here are our top 7 places to see Highland cows in Scotland.  

Pollok Country Park, Glasgow  

As the largest park in Glasgow, Pollok Park is a Natural Trust site with almost 800 years of history. One of the biggest reasons for its draw is the fold of Highland cattle! 

Pollok Park has had Highland cows for almost 200 years, and you can spot them roaming in the various fields around the vast grounds. Alongside the classic ginger cows, you may also see some brown and black ones.  

Aside from wandering the extensive woodland and riverside paths in search of the Highland cows, Pollok Park has plenty of activities suitable for the whole family.  

Perhaps the most famous is the Burrell Collection. Newly renovated, this award winning museum holds over 9,000 objects – covering six millennia of history – from  William Burrell’s extensive archives. Entry is free, and there is a café on site for a  spot of lunch with beautiful views of the surrounding park.  

Pollok House and Gardens is also a draw. Although the house is currently closed for renovations, the café, gift shop, and walled gardens are still accessible. Pollok Park also has a children’s play area that will keep all ages entertained. 

Kitchen Coos & Ewes, Dumfries & Galloway  

Located in the heart of the Scottish Borders, Kitchen Coos & Ewes allows you to get up close and personal with these bonnie cows like never before – safely, of course!  

With a variety of guided tour experiences available, a visit here gives you a great opportunity to learn more about this ancient breed. 

You can take a Highland cow safari from the comfort of a purpose-built trailer and learn how they are a vital part of maintaining the ecosystems of Scotland’s natural hill environments. Once you have taken plenty of pictures, you head back to the farmhouse to sample some traditional baking with your hosts.  

Also available is a ‘Hands On Coo Tour’, where you get the chance to groom some of the younger Highland cows in a playpen!  

Kitchen Coos and Ewes is a working farm, so any experience there needs to be booked in advance. 

Aberdeenshire Highland Beef, Banchory

This working farm located at Lochton of Leys Farmhouse, just outside Banchory in Aberdeenshire and provides exclusive tours allowing you to come face to face with Scotland’s native breed!

With Aberdeenshire Highland Beef owner Gemma and her passion for the highland cows shining throughout the one-hour tour, which has even been featured on BBC Countryfile, this is one that’s not to be missed – just make sure you bring along your wellies!

Not only will you be able to take plenty photographs but you may even get the chance to pet and groom one of the most infamous members of the herd, an award-winning mum named ‘Duchess.’

After meeting the cows and learning more about the history of this incredible breed, you’ll be invited to a delicious Highland Beef Tasting accompanied by tea and coffee.

There’s also a farm shop on-site where you can pick up some of the top-quality beef that you’ve tried during your visit!

You’ll need to book in advance for this experience, as Aberdeenshire Highland Beef is a working farm.

Swanston Farm, Edinburgh  

Located at the base of Caerketton Hill in the Pentland Hills Regional Park, Swanston Farm provides a great day out! 

Swanston Farm encompasses 300 acres of land, and their resident Highland cows are free to roam across all of it. In the summer, two of the resident coos named Thelma and Louise, can be spotted a few minutes away from the farm’s restaurant.  

However, there are plenty more to see if you put on your hiking boots and head out for a walk. The restaurant staff will be happy to give you a leaflet and point you in the direction of where you will find the fold.  

Wildlife is everywhere on Swanston Farm. While you’re exploring, you should also keep your eyes peeled for wild deer, grouse, partridge, birds of prey, hares, and other local wildlife.  

The on-site restaurant provides the opportunity to fuel up with a freshly cooked breakfast, alongside home baking and even a mac and cheese bar.  

For golf enthusiasts, there are 18-hole and 9-hole courses available to play too, alongside a driving range. 

Meldrum House Country Hotel,  Inverurie

Surrounded by beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside, Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course located in the village of Oldmeldrum near Inverurie has highland cows roaming around the hotel grounds!

With a small but growing herd, this is a great place to see Scotland’s hairy beasts – some of whom even have links to royalty with the hotel’s most recent addition, a little calf having been fathered by a bull from the Balmoral Estate!

A visit to Meldrum House is the perfect opportunity to spot these magnificent beasts as you enjoy a beautiful break away just a stone’s throw away from Royal Deeside and Aberdeen City Centre.

With opportunities to dine in a glass dome under the stars or overlooking their highland cows, enjoy a drink in an 800 year old cave bar stocked with 120 types of whiskey or play a round on a magnificent golf course – there’s something special for everyone.

Rothiemurchus Highland Estate, Cairngorms National Park  

The perfect base for an adventure-filled day out, Rothiemurchus Highland Estate offers a guided Highland cow experience.  

Join a tour with a knowledgeable countryside ranger in your own vehicle. Once you park up, you will be introduced to the beautiful hairy herd, with plenty of time for selfies.  

The Estate has plenty of other action-packed activities to suit a range of tastes, including: 

• Deer Feeding  
• Pony Trekking  
• Axe Throwing  
• Wildlife Photography  

And much more! 

There is also a delicious Farm Shop and Deli on-site, where you can buy beef and venison butchered on the farm itself, plus honey, artisan chocolate, and more from local purveyors. Make sure you try one of their famous scones with a delicious cup of coffee! 

Longparke Farm, Dundee  

Finally, we would be missing a trick if we forgot to mention that you can also see Highland cows when you visit us at Longparke Farm!

We have recently added three beautiful Highland Cows to Longparke Farm , named Sally, Bonnie and our little calf, Angus!

As the only place in Dundee where you can see Highland Cows, we would love it if you came along and said “Hello!”  

Surrounded by stunning Angus countryside, Longparke Farm offers you the opportunity to enjoy a coffee with friends, lunch with the family or a nosey in our farm shop only a stone’s throw away from Dundee City Centre!

Every dish in our cafe is made fresh to order, and we source the best local ingredients including top-quality meat from our sister business, Fleming Butchers !

If you fancy something a little more indulgent? Why not try our delicious cakes, scones and traybakes which are baked daily. Or even better you can book in for afternoon tea !

Looking for something special for a loved one or yourself? In our farm shop, we’ve got a wide selection of local goodies, from Fleming Butchers meat to fresh fruit and vegetables which sit alongside our range of gifts hand-chosen from British suppliers.

For the kids, we also have a castle-themed outdoor play area which is fully enclosed so you can feel reassured that your little prince or princess will be safe while they run about and have fun! 

Hopefully, you now have some inspiration on places to see Highland cows in Scotland!  

There are plenty of spots across the country where you can snap some photos of these gorgeous giants, with plenty of other activities to keep you entertained while you’re there.  

If you’re in Dundee or the surrounding area, pop into Longparke Farm for a high-quality coffee, some delicious food, and a wander around our farmshop – we would love to welcome you soon!

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Where in Scotland are the Highland Cows? (21+ Locations)

• 28th August 2022
• 10 minute read

You can admit it… One of the main reasons for your trip to the Scottish Highlands is for our cows, right?! … Honestly, I wouldn’t blame you! Their ginger shaggy coats and prominent horns are incredibly photogenic, although they aren’t always in a practical location to grab a coo selfie or two. Also, where in Scotland are the Highland Cows? This guide reveals the best viewpoints for coo-spotting the lazing and grazing hairy beasts. Just don’t expect them all to be ginger; they can be black and white too!

Highland Cows can be found all over the Scottish Highlands and Islands (just like you’ll find sheep wandering all over too) ! Roughly speaking, there are as many roaming free across the land as there are within fields along the roadside so they can be a little hard to pin down to one definite location. More than that, before you’ve even had a second to shout, ‘ STOP THE CAR ‘, you might have already missed your opportunity to turn around. Unless of course, a herd (or fold, as a group of Highland cattle are known), are unapologetically blocking the way, as they often do!

Table of Contents

Along the north coast 500, near fort william, near edinburgh, near glasgow, near aviemore, lewis & harris, isle of skye, isle of mull, loch lomond & the trossachs, near the border, can you pet a highland cow, are highland cows used for meat, scottish highlands google map legend, save for later.

Run out of time?  Pin this blog for later .

Where to find Highland Cows?

There is a clue within the name, ‘Highland Cow’, but you may be able to spot a few further than the confines of the Scottish Highlands.

Where is the best place to see a Highland cow? This complete ‘Hairy Coo’ guide reveals where to find Highland Cows from the Scottish Highlands & Islands to even Glasgow and Edinburgh. Either way, each suggested location will have suitable parking within close proximity to the Highland Coos to avoid any disruption or danger, to other passing vehicles.

There are many Heilan Coos grazing along the popular North Coast 500. You’ll begin to spot a few even within the fields if you are travelling along the route anti-clockwise from Inverness, although there are much safer places to stop by to take a few photos.

Culloden Battlefield

With only a short drive from Inverness, it could be worthwhile checking around the Culloden Battlefield for some hairy beasts. This location could be described as one of the easiest to see Highland Cows if you are relying solely on public transport as the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus (blue route) stops close by.

Click here for the location on Google Maps

Dochgarroch

Make a stop on your way to Urquhart Castle to bag yourself a coo-selfie at Dochgarroch. There is a ‘fold’ of three Heilen Coos fenced within the field across the car park from the restaurant, An Talla. This location can also be accessed with public transport, aboard the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off open-top double-decker bus (the red route).

Cameron’s Tea Room

The delightful Cameron’s Tea Room is the perfect place to pick up a refreshment between Inverness and Fort Augustus. You’ll find the charming cafe just past Foyers on the south side of Loch Ness. Their nearby field is home to a few friendly Highland Cows. You could also potentially continue obsessing over their cuteness through the cafe windows as you sip on your hot cup of something. Perfect!

Redburn Cafe & Gifts

You could spend the evening with Scottish Cows at Redburn Cafe in Glenmoriston. The cafe permits small campers to park overnight if they spend money inside beforehand. With a delicious menu including tasty coffee, mouth-watering cake and a bag of munchies for the coos, the Redburn Cafe is a worthy stopover – for sure!

Kirkton Farm

Make a detour from the beaten track of the North Coast 500 to hitch a ride with the locals on a buggy tour of their farm. Kirkton Farm has two Highland Cows, although you should also meet the two pygmy goats, Harris and Tweed.

If you find any other coo-spotting locations in Fort William, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

Ben Nevis Distillery

Ben Nevis Distillery can be located on the northern side of Fort William between the road from Inverness to Mallaig . Scotland may have much more attractive distilleries, but the added bonus of Ben Nevis Distillery is the herd of Highland Cows living in the field close to the car parking area.

Are you passing through Perth? There is one reliable viewing spot a little further north along the A9.

Visit Taste Perthshire for a blend of shopping and an all day family restaurant. Regardless of the friendly service inside, the highlight will obviously be meeting their Highland Cows. Take a walk around the restaurant building to meet the herd. If the technology is working, there is also an online webcam for visitors to check if the Heilen Coos are around before stopping by.

Are you wondering where to see Highland Cows in Edinburgh ? There are a few options…

Swanston Farm

Set on a 700-acre working farm in the outskirts of Edinburgh are self-catering cottages, a brasserie, a golf course and a ‘fold’ of Highland Coos. If visitors are prepared to hike 30-40 minutes up Caerketton and Allermuir Hills , then they will be rewarded with the fairly mellow herd who are ready to be photographed.

Morthonhall

There may be a small herd of Highland Cows in the fields between Mortonhall Garden Centre and Mortonhall Campsite. The last time I was there, I fell in love with the sign on the fence. It read,

If my head looks stuck between the fence wire, don’t worry, I am just scratching an itch.

Sometimes I lie down on my side to sleep. I am still alive, but very comfortable.

We’ll happily ignore you if you walk through the field but please don’t touch us.

I hear you ask, “ are there Highland Cows near Glasgow ? “ We’ll do one better… There are Highland Cows in Glasgow !

Pollok Country Park

There are approximately fifty Highland Cows that graze all year round in the fields of Pollok Country Park. Pop by just after March to be in for a chance of spotting the new, and far too adorable, calves.

There are plenty of opportunities to spot a Heilen Coo in and around Aviemore, though the recommended locations below have been tailored to suit visitors stopping by in vehicles.

Cardhu Distillery

How about a Highland Coo with a Highland Dram? Our hairy beasts can be spotted in the fields around Cardhu Distillery. This location is east of Inverness.

Rothiemurchus

Would you like to meet a Highland Cow? Just outside Aviemore in the north of the Cairngorms National Park, the Rothiemurchus Highland Estate hosts a hairy coo safari ! Visitors can walk to the farm where the ranger will call the cattle over for a ‘meet and greet’, or maybe even a coo selfie if they are feeling particularly photogenic that day.

Highland Folk Museum

The Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore is home to a few cows. They have become used to tourists who aren’t afraid to attempt a stroke or two.

The tradition of crofting is commonly practiced on the island of  Lewis and Harris , but without a huge population or infrastructure, the livestock are more often than not, roaming free. With that being said, it’s a little harder to pin the hairy beasts to one specific location, so visitors should keep an eye out across the land.

Hushinish Beach

Hushinish  is a popular beach and park-up on the Isle of Harris . Incoming cars, campervans and motorhomes are often slowed down by a group of slow-moving Highland Cows on the road. You can catch a ferry from Ullapool, Skye or North Uist to camp next to the Highland Cows at the Gateway .

There are a number of Highland Cow folds across the Isle of Skye. If you’re lucky, you may catch the hairy beasts wandering freely on unfenced roads around Elgol in the south of the island. Otherwise, there are a few other viewpoints that are likely to yield great encounters!

You might spot the roadside fuss along the A87 before you see the orange-haired fuzz. There is a layby that has space for a few vehicles between Broadford and Portree. The field opposite has a fold of cows, whether they are exactly there or a little walk away depends on their plan for the day.

The best location for photographing Highland Cows in Skye is between Skye Bridge and Portree, near the village of Sconser. There are a few reasons why this spot is ideal for coo-spotting. Firstly, there is a small parking area opposite the Sconser golf course, so providing there isn’t a crowd, it’s a safe place to stop your vehicle. The feeding station is positioned in close proximity to the parking, so there will be plenty of opportunities for close shots of the furry beasts. Lastly, the herd of cows are based within a stunning mountainous backdrop just beyond the fencing of the farm.

Skye Camping & Caravanning Club Site

If you’re passing Dunvegan, it might be worth taking a peak in the field at the turn-off to the Skye Camping & Caravanning Club Site. Otherwise, pick your park-up on-site as you could be waking up next to the hairy beasts!

With plenty of Highland Cows on the Isle of Mull, they can be quite easily found. Not only that, they are often positioned in some very picturesque locations too!

Whether they are paddling in the sea, stopping by the pub or wandering up the streets, Highland Cows are quite often attracting attention in Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull . This town is on route to the Isle of Iona .

Glengorm Castle Hotel

Heilen Coos can be spotted happily roaming around the grounds of Glengorm Castle Hotel on the north of the Isle of Mull .

Pennygown Holiday Park

The Pennygown Holiday Park is about a 15-minute drive from the Craignure ferry terminal where the Calmac service docks from Oban on the mainland. The best view may be from inside the campsite, so you might prefer to book your spot in order to spend some quality time with the Heilan Coos.

The area in and around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs can experience a higher volume of traffic. Therefore, visitors are kindly reminded to park responsibly, especially in the heat of the moment within the first sighting of a Highland Coo.

Trossachs Woollen Mill

Pay a pound for a bag of food in the Trossachs Woollen Mill to feed the cheeky Highland Cows just beside. The Trossachs Visitor Centre is home to Hamish Dubh (Father Cow) , Honey (Mother Cow) and Holly (Baby Cow) .

Where in Scotland are the Highland Cows near the country’s border? This recommendation would contribute to a great family day out!

Kitchen Coos & Ewes

Kitchen Coos & Ewes offer fun farm tours aboard their purpose-built trailer. The ‘Wee Coo Tour’ is a weather-proof experience that introduces folk to the Scottish Cows for some great photos and unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked ‘Hairy Coo’ Questions

Regardless of their fearsome horns, Highland Cows are quite placid creatures. They have a very lazy demeanour, so don’t expect any excitement during your welcome. Also, Heilen Coos may generally be friendly and tolerant of tourists, but petting a Highland Cow would only be for the brave. This is particularly a bad idea when there are calves within the ‘fold’. Visitors should also keep their dogs on a leash, or preferably away from any livestock at all.

Despite their adorable nature, Highland cows are bred primarily for their beef. Their meat is of exceptionally high quality with less fat and less cholesterol than normal beef. The breed of cattle can withstand the harsh conditions of the Scottish Highlands, so they are a highly-prized and fairly low-maintenance animal among farm in Scotland.

Where in Scotland are the Highland Cows?… Please leave a comment below if you have any additional suggestions. It would be great to hear about what other moo-autiful encounters you’ve had along the way!

Let’s go! @katie.maree

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Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. I travelled 100 countries before I turned 30 years of age. Now... Let's go everywhere!

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Meet the Fold

Meet the Flock

Meet the Food

Meet the Folk

Welcome to Kitchen Coos & Ewes

Please remember, visits must be booked in advance of arrival so we know to expect you!

We offer Highland cow experiences where you can see Highland cows and Beltex sheep in their natural, farm environment in beautiful south west Scotland.

Our tours are designed to help you get close to the Highland cattle from the safety and comfort of a purpose built trailer – it’s basically a farmer-led Highland cow safari!  Wind and water tight - and with padded seats – our farm tour trailer means you can experience a working Scottish farm and meet our Highlanders without even the need for wellies!  Your tour will finish with a cuppa and some home baking fresh from the farmhouse kitchen - it's all included in the price.

Please Note: We are closed from the 20th February until the end of March and for the whole of November. 

We created Kitchen Coos & Ewes as a way to share our passion for these amazing animals. Highland cattle are iconic and beautiful to look at, and the way they graze is really good for the environment too. Your farm tour will include information about how Highland cows help wildlife, and there will be plenty of opportunities to photograph them.

We are also able to provide digital Gift Certificates , which make it quick and easy to gift a farm tour or Highland cow encounter.  So if you have a friend or family member who loves Highland cows, a gift voucher from Kitchen Coos & Ewes might be the perfect thing!

There’s a selection of different farm visit experience to choose from. Generally speaking each tour is available to book once a week throughout the year, but we can be flexible at certain times of the year.  If you would like to arrange other dates that suit your party then please do get in touch.

This farm experience is all about our Highland cows!  It gets you quickly out on to the hill in our weather-proof farm tour trailer where you'll have plenty of time to take photos and learn all about the fold, before you return to some traditional baking fresh from the farmhouse kitchen.

During this in-depth farm tour you’ll meet our record breaking flock of Beltex sheep, before getting in among the Highland cows on the hill.  There will be plenty of opportunity to take photos of the Highland cows and the sheep from the safety and comfort of the farm tour trailer. You’ll return to the farm for a sheep dog demonstration, and then enjoy a cream tea with your hosts. 

A walking tour of our beautiful farm, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.  You’ll visit a small group of our Highland cows and be able to take photos of them.  You’ll see the remains of a Bronze Age hut circle, learn about dry-stone dykes and finish with some traditional farmhouse baking. The route is 1.5 miles. To take part in this tour you should wear clothes and footwear appropriate to weather conditions and be able to walk over uneven grassland.

This tour is all about going on safari and getting that fantastic hands-on highland cow experience.

Head out into the fields, in our safari trailer, along with other highland coo fans.  There you will get a chance to groom some of our younger coos from the safety of our outdoor highland coo play-pen.  Then, head out onto the hill to see the main herd being fed before returning to the farmyard for a cuppa and a trio of traybakes. 

N.B. Dress for the weather.   Part of this experience is outside of our safari trailer and the grass may be wet. You must be able to negotiate 4 steps off and back onto our safari trailer.

The full Luxury Kitchen Coos and Ewes experience!

This is a bespoke Highland cow experience that can be tailored to suit you or your group's expectations.

You can visit our Highland cows on the hill and get up close to capture those very memorable pictures. If you would like to groom a Highland coo we can also make that dream come true.  

For up to six people 

Adventures in Scotland

Everything about the humble coo.

Everything you need to know about the humble Highland coo!

A visit to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without catching a glimpse of the ginger-fringed and friendly Highland coo ! These lovable and docile creatures are a famous picture-postcard icon of our country, but they’re more than just a pretty face. Being the nature enthusiasts that we are and regularly having the chance to see these beauties roaming freely, we thought we’d answer some regular coo FAQs!

Why do Highland cows look so different to regular cows? 

They’re a far cry from the short-haired black and white dairy cow, and that’s because these hardy souls evolved to put up with the wind, rain, snow and sub-zero temperatures that come with living outdoors through a Scottish winter. Though the classic ginger fringed cow is the star of many selfies, they actually come in a variety of colours – blonde, black, brown and a mixture! They have two coats, one longer outer coat to protect them from the elements, and a downy undercoat to keep them cosy. While most cattle would take warm shelter in harsh weather conditions, our highland coos are comfortable setting up for a night in an open shelter (called a fold). Their famous fringe (called a dossan) and long eyelashes protect their eyes from the weather and pesky midges. 

Check out VisitScotland’s Coo Cam and say hello to Thelma, Louise, Cairistiona, Breagh and Janima from Kitchen Coos and Ewes in Dumfries and Galloway and Swanston Farm in Edinburgh.

Why do they have horns?

Both male and female highland cows have horns. Although they look intimidating, they’re used to forage for food or to dig through the snow in winter – so a very tough look for a far more innocent use! You can tell a male and female coo apart by their horns. Male horns will generally come out parallel to the ground and turn up or forward slightly at the ends. Females have longer, thinner horns which have much more of an obvious curve. 

Where can I meet a Highland Cow?

First recorded in the Scottish Highlands (as early at the sixth century!) – they were named after their origins. Nowadays you can find the Highland Coo dotted all over Scotland, including the islands! VisitScotland have created a handy guide of all the places you might spot a Highland coo as and when COVID restrictions allow, from the northern tip to the borders of the country. Your safest bet would be the Highlands, and for the true rural Scottish wildlife experience we highly recommend setting up base in the Cairngorms and taking a few days to explore. Our Highland Wilderness Trips are famous for sights of deer, rare birds, badgers and of course the gorgeous Highland coo too!

If you’re keen to see a coo our recommendations would be to join us on a visit to Lynbreck Croft (to be included on the Highland Family Adventure and Cairngorm Discovery tours) or check in with Rothiemurchus estate on their coo tours for your rest day activity. There are also coo viewing opportunities when we do to Harris (Western Isles Wilderness), Skye ( Superlative Skye ), Knoydart (Wild Knoydart) and Torridon ( Classic Torridon ) – so  almost everywhere we go!

If you love the Highland Coo/Cow we highly recommend following Lynbreck Croft on Facebook.

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A First-Time Adventure to Caithness & Sutherland

Whenever I think of the Highlands, the first names that pop into my mind are Glencoe and Glenfinnan. For many, they seem to embody the essence of the Highlands. But looking more closely at the map of Scotland, there is a sizeable area stretching north of Inverness, right up to the north coast. About 100km long and nearly just as wide, this stretch of the North Highlands is divided into two regions – Caithness and Sutherland. When the Far North of Scotland was nominated among Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Destinations of 2024, I jumped at the chance to finally explore the area. Read on to find out more about my epic solo adventure through the Flow Country and into the North Highlands...

Duncansby Stacks, Wick

© markmcgeephotos

The Train Journey to Thurso

Thurso seafront

© Brieuc Botte

Curious to discover what sort of stories and hidden gems this area might hold, I embarked on a journey northward from Edinburgh. The first leg of my train journey took me through the golden forests of Perthshire, Aviemore and the hills that form the western edge of the Cairngorms to reach Inverness, Scotland’s ancient capital and transport hub of the Highlands. After a quick lunch at the station and a trip to the famous Leakey’s Bookshop nearby (well worth a wee detour if you get the chance!), I jumped on the Far North Line train which would take me to Thurso, the northernmost town on mainland Scotland.

The train journey, which lasted about 4 hours, seemed much shorter. I couldn’t take my eyes off the window as we passed the heather-clad hillsides facing the coastline of Sutherland, up to the fishing town of Helmsdale. There, the train started its journey inland through the plains and peatlands of the Flow Country. I was amazed at the number of stops on the line; for such a sparsely populated area, it is remarkably well-connected.

Taking the train is also a great way to slow down and really soak up this part of Scotland, as well as being an absolute bargain for hikers and campers who have plenty of places to start and finish their hikes at! My first glimpses of the Flow Country were quite incredible. Looking at the vast golden-coloured marshes dotted with small lochs and solitary hills, it dawned on me I was entering a very unique part of Scotland. We reached Thurso in the early hours of the evening, which offered me a wonderful view of the town at sunset, a foretaste of what was to come.  After catching a glimpse of the church spire in the distance, I went into my hotel, thinking about the next day.

Exploring Thurso

The next morning, I set off bright and early to wander the streets of Thurso . I chose to follow the road that ran from the station and quickly came across picturesque buildings, a park and a pedestrian area lined with shops. I went down to the harbour, quickly stopping by Old St Peter’s Church, and very soon the north coast of Scotland opened before me, bathed in sunlight and a light autumnal breeze.

With it being such a clear day, I could easily see the dramatic cliffs that ensconce the town. I walked on the promenade along the sandy beach, looking out along the coastline. A few hundred metres on my left lay the harbour of Scrabster, with its ferries ready to carry passengers across the Pentland Firth to Orkney. I couldn’t believe just how close I was to Orkney: turning my head slightly, I could very clearly see the high cliffs of Hoy glistening in the sun. A little to the right, I got an even clearer sight of Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Scotland and an RSPB nature reserve.

Displays at the North Coast Visitor Centre

Turning back towards the town, I ended up following the Riverside Walk along the Thurso River, where the town gets its name. It’s an easy route that offers some beautiful views, lined by trees turning golden and auburn. After having blown away the cobwebs with my beach exploration and riverside wander, I headed back into town to find out a bit more about the culture and community of this part of the world. Caithness and Sutherland are packed full of small, engaging museums and I was eager to discover some of the unique stories of the surrounding area. The North Coast Visitor Centre is in the centre of the town, a former town hall and Carnegie Library that is rather impressive from the outside, but it was nothing compared to what was inside!

The museum is divided onto three levels. The ground floor contains some of the most impressive Pictish stones and Viking rune-carved objects found in Caithness, perfect for those interested in the epic history of the area. The first floor hosts the visitor centre café and a gallery of local artists’ works. The second floor contains extensive displays of the broader history of the area, from its Neolithic origins to its fishing industry, botany and wildlife to nuclear experiments, as well as a theatre where a film on Caithness runs on loop.

The highlight of the visit was without a doubt the interactive display on the Flow Country, which made me realise just how vital this natural reserve is to its unique and fragile ecosystems, but also in the fight against climate change. Up in the theatre, I sat and watched a movie which told me all I needed to know about Caithness, the Flow Country and its importance to Scotland.  After having crossed the length of it the day before, this immersive experience made me feel like I knew more about the Flow Country than if I had actually walked through it.

Wolfburn Distillery

After a quick lunch at the visitor centre café, I set off on the A9 along the coast, past the harbour of Scrabster, to reach Wolfburn Distillery . The second most northerly distillery on mainland Scotland. It is named after the Wolf Burn, which flows right past it, near the site of the original Wolfburn Distillery established there over 200 years ago. For 90 minutes, our knowledgeable tour guide Charlie took us through all the inner workings of this independent distillery, before taking us to one of their warehouses. We finished up the tour with a tasting of their finest whiskies, accompanied by extensive explanations (and a free dram to take home!).

Forsinard Flows National Nature Reserve

© wild.devs

I felt like there was so much more to see and explore in and around Thurso and the Flow Country. With such impactful landscapes, friendly people and rich history I would definitely take another trip back soon. Thankfully I knew I had another beautiful train journey back through the Flow Country to look forward to, especially now I knew so much more about how significant this landscape truly is to Scotland.

The area is currently bidding to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site (the decision will be made in 2024), and it’s easy to see why. You can book tours through this terrain to find out more about the area as well as being able see some of the significant wildlife that make it their home. As the train chugged along, taking me back to Inverness, the views across the vast Flow Country at sunset did not disappoint.

From Inverness to John O'Groats

But my trip to the North Highlands was not yet complete! I was offered an irresistible opportunity to join a Timberbush tour to explore more of the east coast and most northerly reaches of mainland Scotland! Handily located just behind Inverness train station, I joined five other eager travellers to meet our tour guide, Richard. Because I’m lucky enough to call Scotland my home, it was my first experience of a guided tour in Scotland and, I must say, I couldn’t have hoped for a better guide! Richard, himself a well-travelled Scot from the lowlands of Dumfries & Galloway, was both full of humour and incredibly knowledgeable about every single village and building we passed. I tried to test his knowledge on a few occasions and was impressed by the depth of knowledge and passion with which he delivered his stories. Our ultimate destination was John o’ Groats, the most northerly mainland tip of the UK! But we had a few stops to soak up what Caithness and Sutherland have to offer before we got there...

Dunrobin Castle & Gardens

We first stopped in the picturesque village of Dornoch, where I wandered around and stopped for a coffee and scones at Milk & Honey . We then journeyed on to Golspie, where Richard gave us a full history lesson on the Dukes of Sutherland and their infamous links with the Highland Clearances, contemplating the monument which stands atop Ben Bhraggie. From there, it was a short distance to one of the highlights of our trip, Dunrobin Castle , the seat of the Dukes of Sutherland. It’s an almost unbelievably magic setting: a grand fairytale castle right by the sea. There I was able to attend an amazing display of falconry in the French style gardens, before heading back inside and wandering through the many rooms of the castle, each equipped with information boards available in multiple languages. 

We then made our way to Wick and John o’ Groats, stopping on the way to have a close look at Highland cows, or taking in the views from Dunbeath Harbour.

Standing at the John o'Groats signpost

John o’ Groats is a pretty special place. Standing on the very north-eastern tip of mainland Scotland, I was overwhelmed by the feeling of being at the very edge of something. Even more so after Richard took us up the cliff to have a look at the very impressive stacks of Duncansby Head. After enjoying a rather delicious ice cream at Flavours in John o’ Groats, we start our journey back.

Having studied Old Norse and with Richard’s insights, I started to piece together these landscapes the Vikings once walked through the many Norse place names in the area: Wick (from Norse vík , ‘bay’), Thurso (from Norse Thorsá , ‘Thor’s river’), Dingwall (from Norse Þingvöllr , ‘assembly field’) or even the unique Flow Country, which comes from the Norse word flói meaning a ‘wet, marshy moor’.

As we were driving back along the coast from John o’ Groats, I chatted more to Richard about his role as a tour guide. I was curious to know what made this part of Scotland so special to him, when he had spent so many years running tours across the globe. He told me it’s a combination of heritage, character, and of course the people. “You won’t find this anywhere else”, he adds after a considered pause. He tells me of the clans, of the feuding, of the sheer depth of history still visible now. “In a way, it moulded who we are today”. Right before we set off on our journey back to Inverness, he adds: “I consider myself very lucky to live in this part of the world”.

I don’t know if it was the grand views of Duncansby stacks, the traditional folk music in the tour bus or the genuineness in Richard’s voice – all of those at once, I suppose – but as I watched the castle-strewn coastline of Sutherland roll before us as the sun set on this corner of the Highlands I had never expected would be so rich, I considered myself even luckier to have been part of this adventure in the Far North of Scotland.

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