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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.

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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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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.

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 .

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!

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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.

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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.

Shop Amazon.ca

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 2024-04-30 / 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!

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!

Comments are closed.

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.
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Meet The Highland Cattle, Scotland’s Majestic Cows And Bulls

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Highland cattle are Scotland’s adorable signature animals: shaggy, friendly representatives of the moors and highlands. Also known as heilan coos , Highland cattle have a close and fascinating relationship with the people of Scotland and are a tourist attraction in their own right.

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You can spot these magnificent creatures wandering the misty moors or at various farms across the country. Swanston Farm and Trossachs Woollen Mill are two excellent places to interact with Highland cattle up close.

These beasts have a distinguished history, a fantastic temperament, and a special place in the hearts of all Scots. Here are some incredible facts about Scottish Highland cattle.

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They Were The First Bovine Breed In The World To Be Registered

Highland cattle are as old as Scotland itself. The breed was the first bovine breed on the planet to be registered , with the first herd recognized in 1884. These creatures have called the Highlands their home for centuries and have adapted to the chilly climate by developing thick, shaggy coats. Over the centuries, Highland cattle have evolved into hearty animals with the courage to face the fierce Scottish winters, and they are probably descendants of ancient oxen . It’s an understatement to say that their Scottish roots run deep.

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They Have A Long Lifespan

Highland cattle’s ability to adapt to the cruel climate of the Scottish Highlands might have contributed to their impressive longevity. They live an average of 15 to 22 years , substantially longer than most other members of the bovine family . In terms of human years , these impressive animals live well over 70 years, and some even exceed 90 years! They have also been known to give birth well into their later years, making these creatures coveted livestock.

Jonas Carlberg / Flickr ( CC BY 2.0 )

They Come In A Rainbow Of Colors

When people envision Highland cattle, they tend to think of thick auburn coats of fur, and while many cows and bulls do sport this ginger hue, Highland cattle come in a wide variety of colors . These robust creatures are sheathed in red, yellow, white, black, and even brindle fur. What’s more, it’s also possible for them to give birth to calves of different colors . Although it’s common for different breeds of cattle to come in different colors , it’s far less common for a specific breed to have coats of multiple colors.

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They Have Waterproof Coats

The colorful coat of the Highland bull or cow has two distinct layers that protect it from the stormy elements and keep it toasty warm. The underlayer is thick and acts almost like the inside of a down jacket. The top layer is covered in a slick oily film that repels rain and snow. Their useful coat is another example of how the Highland cattle have evolved to cope with Scotland’s weather. On average, the Scottish Highlands get 100 days of snow during the winter months, and the coat does double duty keeping these animals dry and comfortably warm.

Menno Schaefer / Shutterstock

They Were Once Housepets

Once again, truth is often stranger than fiction. Even though their utilitarian coats kept Highland cattle snug during the rough winter months, they were still routinely invited into the homes of Scottish people of yesteryear. The family bull or cow was given its own special area and protected from the elements. Although Scottish people do have a special affection for the hairy Highland cattle, this practice of bringing them indoors might have been a little more practical. Highlanders were predominantly farmers , and their herds were essential assets. Still, it’s cute to think of a sweet little Highland calf hunkering down with its people.

marcyano / Shutterstock

Both The Cows And Bulls Have Horns

Large horns are a key element of Highland cattle’s signature look, and both cows and bulls sport them proudly. Cows’ horns tend to point up and taper off, while bulls’ horns are thicker and point forward. As with most animals, the size of the horn indicates the general age. Although plenty of bovines have horns , very few can match the stunning curved crowns that grace both sexes of Highland cattle.

Biehler Michael / Shutterstock

They Are Confident And Calm

Highland cattle have fantastic temperaments and are known for their unflappable demeanor and intelligence. Their charming personalities and friendliness have made them a popular breed far outside of the Scottish Highlands. It’s clear that these animals evolved significant coping mechanisms alongside their thick coats, and people all over the world are falling in love with these iconic creatures of the north.

Gary Bruce / Shutterstock

At first glance, Highland cattle seem merely cute, but beyond their shaggy coats is a deep history rooted in the Scottish Highlands. Highland cattle fostered an alliance with the Scottish people long ago, and they are iconic symbols of the country today. Indeed, these magnificent beasts are well worth a trip across the pond.

Planning a trip to Scotland? Don’t miss the hidden gems of Edinburgh , Scotland’s hilly capital.

Elizabeth Lavis is a freelance writer who spends the majority of her time traveling the world and seeing exciting and fun new places. She likes physical challenges, such as mountain climbing, and enjoys interacting with interesting people and learning to appreciate new cultures and ways of doing things. Elizabeth is curious about the world around her and is always looking for ways to make it a friendlier and more welcoming place. Read more from Elizabeth on her personal site .

Where to see Highland Cows in Scotland

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Table of Contents

Scotland is home to diverse wildlife, with the Highland cow, affectionately known as the “Heilan Coo”, being a standout sight.

With their distinctive shaggy coats and long, curved horns, these majestic creatures are well suited to the Scottish climate, making them a year-round spectacle.

To help you experience these iconic beasts firsthand, we’ve compiled a list of locations across the breathtaking Scottish landscape where Highland cows or Hairy Coos can be found.

North Scotland: Along the North Coast 500

North coast 500 route between thurso and durness.

The North Coast 500 route is renowned for its Highland cow sightings. Travel between Thurso and Durness and you’ll spot these beasts gracing the fields along the way.

Kirkton Farm

Kirkton Farm offers a unique experience – buggy tours around their Highland cattle farm. It’s an ideal spot to get close and personal with the cows.

Duirinish and Plockton

In the traditional Scottish villages of Duirinish and Plockton, Highland cows roam freely, adding a unique charm to the quaint settings.

Bealach Na Ba

This minor coastal road running between Applecross and Shieldaig is another hot spot for sightings of free-roaming Highland cows.

Fort William, Ardnamurchan, and Cairngorms National Park

Fort william and ardnamurchan.

The historic Cow Hill at the edge of Fort William and the stunning surroundings of Ardnamurchan offer many opportunities for Highland cow encounters.

Glenlivet Distillery and Rothiemurchus

While visiting the Glenlivet Distillery, keep an eye out for Highland cattle in the surrounding fields. Similarly, the woodland estate of Rothiemurchus is home to several Highland cows.

Cairngorms National Park

This Park houses the ruins of Ruthven Barracks, surrounded by grazing land frequented by Highland cows. Not far away, Uvie Farm breeds Highland cows, and visitors can spot both adults and calves.

Glen Tanar, with its lush fields, often hosts Highland cows grazing near the roadside.

Inverness and Loch Ness

Culloden battlefield.

At the entrance to the famous Culloden Battlefield , Highland cows welcome visitors, adding an authentic Scottish feel to the site.

Muthu Newton Hotel

The sprawling parkland surrounding Muthu Newton Hotel is another place where Highland cows can be seen grazing.

Drumbuie Farm B&B and Cameron’s Tea Room and Farm Shop

Located on the northern shores of Loch Ness, Drumbuie Farm B&B houses Highland cattle. Similarly, the fields beside Cameron’s Tea Room and Farm Shop are home to a friendly herd of Highland cows.

North East Scotland

Macallan distillery and crathes castle.

Highland cattle also roam the fields surrounding the Macallan Distillery and Crathes Castle in Aberdeenshire.

Kincardine Castle, Meldrum House Hotel, and Aikenshill House & Farm B&B

These places in North East Scotland house their respective herds of Highland cattle, providing an additional attraction for visitors.

Central Scotland

Glamis castle.

The iconic Glamis Castle is not just famous for its history, but also its resident Highland cows that graze in the surrounding grounds.

Balgove Larder Farm Shop

Located on the edge of St Andrews in Fife, the fields just outside this farm shop house friendly Highland cows, a sight to behold for all visitors.

Prestonfield House

To the south side of Holyrood Park, the luxurious Prestonfield House maintains its own small herd of Highland cows within the grounds.

Taste Perthshire and Blair Castle

Known for its locally sourced Scottish produce, Taste Perthshire has a small herd of Highland cows nearby. Similarly, the fields around Blair Castle, north of Perth, are home to these iconic beasts.

Visiting Scotland is an enchanting experience, made even more memorable by the sight of the majestic Highland cows in their natural habitats.

Armed with your camera and a sense of adventure, prepare to embark on a unique Scottish journey.

Peter was born in Aberdeen, Scotland and is passionate about sharing his knowledge of the area with others. Whether it's food recommendations, tourist attractions or picturesque spots worth visiting, he covers it all.

When Peter isn't working on the site, he's often found in the gym or working in his day job as a Digital Marketing Manager.

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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).

Buy the best bits of must-see-scotland.com advert-free!

Like the tell-it-like-it-is-approach? The most helpful and entertaining pages on this website are now available as ebooks covering many aspects of travel in Scotland.  

Get them right here in my ebookstore for £1.99 each and look out for future titles!

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…

Find Your Tour

Scotland travel blog august 2019, "where to see highland cows and other hairy coo questions".

Something just occurred to me!

In all the years I’ve been doing this blog, I’ve never written anything about that most iconic of Scottish creatures the Highland Cow.

So it’s time to fix that with answers to the Top 10 questions we get asked about Highland Cows

1. Where to see Highland Cows?

So let's start with the most frequently asked question, and the answer is… all over Scotland. Now, I don’t mean they are roaming across the Highlands in massive numbers like Buffalo migrations on the American prairies, but you will find “folds” of Highland cattle all over the country.

For some reason the official collective noun for  Highland cattle is a “fold” and not a “herd”. Which does beg the question, does a farmer “Herd up his Highland cows” or does he “Fold up his Highland Coos”?

You don’t even have to go into the Highlands to find Hairy Coos. If you are in Glasgow, you will find that there are some resident old Cows in the Pollok Country Park on the southside of Glasgow. This is also the location of the Burrell Collection, but at the time of writing the building that houses this art collection is closed for some major repairs.

Listed below are some places where you are more or less guaranteed to see Highland cattle: 

• Redburn Cafe on the A887 near Invermoristion - if you want to get up close and make friends with a Highland Cow, then it helps to offer them some snacks. The owners of Redburn Cafe have catered for this and they sell little bags of “munchies” that will entice the resident coos to tolerate having some “selfies” taken with you.
• Ruthven Barracks - I can’t promise that you’ll always find Hairy coos here, but we’ve always bumped into a couple of them at these historic ruins just a mile to the east of Kingussie. The barracks have a poignant place in history as the site where the Jacobite army last rallied after defeat at Culloden. It was here that they received their final order from Bonnie Prince Charlie. A word of warning, one of the cows here tried to charge me and I had to jump a wall to escape being prodded with a horn. It’s unusual to get this reaction, but I’ll talk more about this later.

• Highland Coo Safaris - Staying in the same area as Ruthven Barracks, the Rothiemurchus Estate has a well established fold of Highland Cattles and they offer short guided tours where you can meet their Hairy Hielan Coo club. They have been breeding them here for almost 100 years so you’ve a good chance of seeing some calves and baby Highland cows are off the scale when it comes to cuteness.
• Kilchurn Castle - On the walk from the car park to the castle, you pass a small cabin that an enterprising local has set up as a small gallery to sell his landscape photographs from. The same chap also has cottoned on that a Highland Cow will make folk stop outside his wee shop, so he has borrowed one of his wife’s pet cows to act as tourist bait. To be honest, the cow looks totally fed up with the situation and is not particularly interested in striking a pose for a photo.
• Kitchen Coos & Ewes - located near Newton Stewart in South West Scotland (so not at all in the Highlands) is a farm run by Neale and Janet McQuistin who welcome visitors on farm tours to meet and learn first hand about their fold of Highland Cattle.
• Duirinish - This is a little village not far from Kyle of Lochalsh where you also find the Skye Bridge. It is not uncommon to find cows reclined on the road through the village as Mary Dobson, owner of the village’s Croft Cafe, has her own fold. These cows have attitude and are well aware that they weigh more than you so don’t expect them to move quickly when you want to get past.

2. Are Highland cows friendly?

As a general rule (the exception being the ones at Ruthven barracks), they are quite placid animals. They are not friendly in the sense that they will come bounding up to see you wagging their tails, but they are very tolerant of tourists. Which is a good thing as Hairy Coos attract tourists with“Selfie” sticks like a cowpat attracts flies.

The only thing that we would warn you about Highland cows is that they are very maternalistic and, if they think their calves are threatened, they will react. We think this is why we got chased at Ruthven Barracks and had a “horn assisted” clamber over a wall.

3. What should I do if a Highland Cow is blocking the road?

Don’t toot your horn! For one thing, they really don’t care that you are in a hurry, but if they are with calves they might feel threatened and those horns can do quite a bit of damage to your paintwork. The best thing to do is just sit patiently and wait for them to get bored with the game. If you really do have to get them moving, then it is better to park your car a bit further back and then approach them on foot to try to usher them off the road.

They do seem to respond better to politeness than impatience, so talking to them in a soothing voice tends to get better results.

4. What are Highland cows used for?

Despite their cuteness, Highland cattle are primarily bred for their beef. Due to that thick hairy coat, Highland cows don’t need so much body fat to keep warm and they can graze outdoors all year round so they don’t need to store as much fat in their body to survive in a harsh climate. This all means that they produce a very lean and low cholesterol beef that is also very tender.

They don’t score so well when it comes to milking, something to remember if you are playing “Farm Animal Top Trumps” (this does actually exist, Google it!). They don’t produce large amounts of milk, around 2 gallons a day which isn’t enough to be commercially viable for dairy farming. However, the milk they produce is rich in butterfat (up to 10% butterfat whereas most dairy breeds will be around 3%) and this means it’s extra creamy. It  might also explain why Caboc, a really rich double cream cheese, is one of Scotland’s oldest types of cheese.

The other more obvious issue with milking a Hielan coo is the fact that nobody wants to find a ginger hair in their milk….phhhhffffttttt!!!

5. Are they always Ginger?

If you’re Scottish, you eventually get used to the tiresome cliche that putting a hairy ginger wig on something will make it look more Scottish. Hielan Coos know all about this because it was originally more common for the breed to be black haired. They actually come in a whole range of colours, including white, and can still be considered true Highland cattle.

So what happened to all the black ones. Well the story goes that Queen Victoria expressed a preference for the Ginger variety and that started a trend for breeding the gingers. I’m really not sure how much credence can be given to that story as Highland folk are not known for their love of following fashion or whims.

6. Why are they so common in the Highlands?

Take their distinctive shaggy hair for instance, this is perfect insulation to enable them tolerate the cold and wet Scottish winters. The top layer of their coat is oily and can grow up to a foot long so it forms a matted dense layer that water doesn’t penetrate. Underneath the shaggy outer layer is a shorter and softer layer of fur that helps them retain heat.

Then there’s those long horns which come in very handy for scratching backs, but they also enable the cows to dig into frozen ground in search of roots that they can graze on when winter conditions make other vegetation scarce.

They are also a relatively low maintenance breed. They will happily live outside all year round, they don’t need lots of extra feed supplements when it gets cold and they are known for their ability to give birth unassisted. So not too many expensive veterinary bills… ideal for us tight fisted Scots.

In fact, Highland Cows really are an embodiment of lots of characteristics typically associated with the Scots, tough, ginger, tolerant of the cold and, if not provoked, friendly.

7. Do Female Highland Cows have horns?

We’ve mentioned horns a few times already so we ought to clarify that Highland Cattle, both the male and female, come with an impressive pair of horns. Whilst both sexes have horns, there are actually subtle differences in the shape of the horns which will let you identify if it’s a boy or a girl coo. With all that hair it can sometimes be hard to tell.

The horns of a bull tend to point forward from the head in a manner better suited for use as a weapon when charging.

Where as the females have their horns orientated at a more jaunty upward pointing angle.

Of course, if one of them is charging at you we’d suggest you start running away before trying to assess if it’s a boy or girl.

8. Do Highland Cows make good pets?

Are you mad!? Would you really want 500kg of hairy highland cow sleeping on your sofa?

Actually, assuming that you have a very large and untidy house, or have a suitably large field, then it might not be the worst animal to have as a pet. They do live up to 20 years so you’d get your money’s worth.

9. How much does Highland Cow cost to buy?

It’s difficult to give a benchmark price for this as it varies hugely from ~£500 to over £10,000 for a pedigree bull in its prime. Yearling bulls (i.e. a bull that is between 1 - 2 years old, might fetch as little as £500, a heifer a little more. Similarly, old cows at the end of their lives in terms of calving are going to fetch modest amounts.

If you do fancy buying one as a pet you might pick up a bargain here: http://www.highlandcattlesociety.com/shows-sales/for-sale.aspx

10. Are there any cross breeds of Highland Cow?

There is a cross breed version that has been pretty successful and that is the Luing breed (pronounced with a silent “U”). The breed takes its name from the small island to the south west of Oban where it was originally developed by crossbreeding Beef Shorthorn with our hairy Highland friends. The result is a hardy breed that produces good beef calves in areas that most beef cattle would not thrive in. They are a darker reddish brown than the usual Highland cow and a bit hairier than your usual cow, but not quite a cute as a pure Hairy Hielan Coo.

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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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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

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Highland Cow Experiences

Afternoon tea with our highlands.

Indulge in a home-made, traditional afternoon tea. This includes classic sandwiches, home-made scones and home-made triple chocolate brownies alongside a ‘Lottie Dot Cakes’ Highland cow cupcake each, What more could you want? … you also get a Highland Cow Experience before You enter your heated highland cow themed igloo! (We can cater for gluten-free & vegan)

Afternoon Tea - Adult

Afternoon tea with a glass of fizz- adult, afternoon tea- for kids- under 12, highland cow experience.

A 30 minute experience to get close with our beautiful highland cows . This includes hand feeding , brushing, petting and getting photos with them. We encourage you to bring a couple of treats for the coos, such as white bread, apples, bananas or carrots. Please bear in mind all interactions with the cows are dependent on how they are behaving on the day. Also any children must be supervised by a responsible adult.

Highland Cow Cottage Experience

A group of 1 - 4 people.

Please note we do reserve the right to cancel any visits to the cows, should our terms and guidelines not be followed

Meet Our Highlands

About highland cow cottage, photos & feeding.

Taking photos and feeding the Highland cows is a heartwarming and picturesque experience. With your camera in hand, you can capture the charm of these majestic creatures. Their shaggy coats, distinctive horns, and soulful eyes make for stunning subjects.

When it comes to feeding them, you are more than welcome to offer them treats- apples , white bread, carrots, and bananas. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories, all while getting some incredible photos to remember the day.

Sofia, Megan, Elizabeth & Alfie . 

 Alfie, Liz, and Megan have brown and tan coats, which are characteristic of the Highland cattle breed. Sofia, on the other hand, stands out with her striking black coat, adding a unique touch to the group. 

Their fur is long and shaggy, providing them with protection against the unpredictable weather. 

Each highland cow carries a piece of Scotland’s rugged beauty, their individual personalities and the way interact with each other showcase the resilience and charm of Highland cattle.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea at Highland Cow Cottage is a delightful experience where you can savor a traditional pot of tea, home-made scones, sandwiches, and brownies. 

 Seated in a beautiful highland cow themed igloo, with heating, you can enjoy the view of highland coos. Upon arrival for your afternoon tea you will have Highland Cow Experience. We encourage visitors to bring treats with you to feed our Highlands, they love white bread, apples, carrots, and bananas. 

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Highland Cow Cottage

16 Brook End, Steeple Morden, Royston, SG8 0PP, United Kingdom

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Highland Cows

Scotland's national animal, believe it or not... is the Unicorn ! But is it really? Unofficially the highland cow must surely be Scotland's true national animal. These fine shaggy beasts have become synonymous with Scotland and are used on everything you can imagine, from mugs and placemats to keyrings and tea towels... the Highland Cow seems to be worshipped by locals and tourists alike.

Let's find a little bit more about these beautiful animals and find out why they are so beloved in Scotland .

What is a Highland Cow?

Hairy coos / Heilan Coos are difficult to miss; they are about as big or a little smaller than a normal cow but covered in long shaggy red hair and have large horns protruding from their heads.

Originally there were two classes of Highland cow, one from the west coast or western  Scottish islands  called the Kyloe, and the larger breed named the highlander. Today the breed is simply called Highland.

Highland cow characteristics

This cattle breed is extremely tolerant to cold conditions due to their dual layer of thick oily hair and also thrives in areas with poor grazing land, feasting on types of grass and other plants that other breeds would avoid. For example, they can eat tree leaves, honeysuckle, poison ivy and even stinging nettles - anything available that has nutritional value - whereas lesser cow breeds would likely die of starvation on the same poor pasture. In some countries, Highland cows are used to prevent vegetation from taking over.

Their unusual double coat makes them ideally equipped for living in the Scottish Highlands , with high amounts of rainfall, snow and wind. Amazingly their coats grow with the conditions around them, so a Highland cow in north Scotland will grow a thicker coat than a cow-based in the hotter areas of Australia. They are exceedingly tough animals and will thrive in most environments, including much colder countries than Scotland such as Norway and Canada.

The coats of highland cows do not need to be brushed and maintain themselves without human helpers. However, for shows, their coats are often made to look beautiful; read more below about shows.

Highland cows are actually a little smaller than other breeds (such as the Aberdeen Angus) and take an entire year longer to reach maturity. Their frames are smaller, but mature bulls can still weigh up to 650-800 kg and females 450 - 500 kg. Heights average between 105 and 125 cm.

Highland cow coat colours

Although red is the most common colour, you do also get yellow and black highland cows. Red is predominant due to Queen Victoria commenting that she preferred the red coloured cattle when visiting the Highlands... selective breeding led to red becoming the most common colour with the black colour gradually declining over the years.

Even though red is now the most common colour, there are actually 7 official colours: Red, Black, White, Yellow, Brindle, Dun, and Silver Dun.

Highland cow horns, do female highland cows grow horns?

Both sexes of highland cow grow horns, but the direction of growth is different between them. Small nubs begin to form from about 7 months old and continue to grow until maturity at 28+ months old.

Bull's horns:  A symbol of masculinity/strength, these horns curve forward, wider and are thicker.

Cow's horns:  Narrower horns that rise at a steeper angle from the head.

It is believed that testosterone levels affect the angle and growth of horns, giving the males and females very different profiles. Growth can continue on but at a much slower rate, some older animals can grow very long horns.

The horns are also used as a foraging tool, for example in heavy snow, the horns can brush aside drifts to get down to the vegetation hidden below.

Damaged horns

If horns are damaged at any point in the growth cycle of the animal it can lead to crooked/misshapen horns... for example, one horn pointing up and one down, or the symmetry being completely wrong. Unfortunately, damaged horns will be a feature of an affected animal forevermore and will not self-correct.

Reproduction cycle

Highland cows will mate at any time of the year, and cows will normally give birth to a single offspring 280-290 days after conception. Twins can be born, but it is uncommon. At 18 months old sexual maturity is reached, and a cow can give birth to around 15 calves in its lifetime, but 12 is a more realistic number.

Highland cattle make for excellent mothers and can birth their calves completely independently of human help - rarely needing a caesarean section. The entire group will protect calves even if not their own; quite touching really.

Calves are quite small and weigh only 50-75 pounds at birth, but they grow very quickly due to the butter-rich milk provided by the mother cow.  See the video below of the calves; they are awfully cute.

How long do Highland cows live?

They can live as long as 20 years, around 5 years longer than other cow breeds. Highland cows living as long as 24 years is not unheard of.

A brief history of the Highland Cow

Highland cattle are Scotland's oldest native breed of cow and originated in the Scottish Highlands and Outer Hebrides (a Scottish island to the northwest). This hardy breed is a descendant of "Hamitic Longhorns" and was brought to the UK from Africa and Europe by neolithic people 4000 years ago.

Originally farmers kept Highland cows as a source of milk and meat. Groups of cows were not called herds but "folds" due to the stone shelters that housed them.

Highland cattle have been found in archaeological digs going back as for as 1200BC and were found to actually live aside humans in the same abode as their great body heat could help heat homes as well as give additional protection from cattle thieving.

In the 1670s, Scottish folk hero Rob Roy Macgregor operated both a cattle rustling and cattle droving enterprise. Part of this was protection money from cattle owners who hired Rob Roy and his men to protect their herds. This was called "black meal" or "black rent" and is the origin of the word blackmail.

Why are Scottish Highland Cattle Bred?

Although these awesome animals are synonymous with Scotland and loved by tourists, why are they actually bred? Sorry animal lovers, but the main purpose for breeding highland cattle is for their meat and to a lesser extent, milk.

Highland Cow Meat

Highland beef is an exceptional product. Although it's slow to mature, the beef is very low in fat and contains high quantities of protein and iron. The low-fat percentage is due to less fat being needed on the animal as it is insulated with hair rather than fat reserves. The fat marbling is perfect for flavour and is highly sought after by chefs in Scotland and around the world.

Perhaps the best aspect of Highland cow beef is knowing where it comes from. Standard beef from countries such as the USA and Australia can contain high amounts of growth hormone, which can be harmful to human health. Other farming practices such as keeping animals restricted in sheds and fed grain to produce a higher yield of meat per animal produces lower quality beef, as well as a lower quality of life for the animal.

Premium beef from highland cows is very much an artisanal product procured from healthy grass-fed animals reared in the highlands of Scotland. The cows roam free over large pastures and have a great quality of life. It is very natural and one of the healthiest beef products available as well as the tastiest.

Highland cattle meat of this quality demands a higher price but is definitely worth the cost if you want to sample some of the very best beef Scotland has to offer.

Some of the best things about highland beef:

Low in fat/cholesterol.

High in protein, vitamins A, B3, B6, B12 and E.

Contains omega-3 fats.

Excellent source of iron, zinc and phosphorus.

The healthiest beef for heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes.

A rich, tender beef with fantastic flavour.

Crossbred beef suckler cows

With highland cattle beef being a very high-end and expensive product, efforts to find a cheaper form of beef included cross-breeding Highland cows with other cow breeds. Crossbreeding with Shorthorn or Limousin modern beef bull creates a crossbred beef calf that has many of the fantastic traits of Highland beef but at a lower price, perfect for other markets in the food industry.

How much do Highland cows cost?

It depends on a variety of factors such as age and pedigree but costs would range from a few hundred pounds to a few thousand to potentially tens of thousands.

The best place to see what is currently available is the  Highland Cattle Society  website. At the time of writing, there were four cows available, only one was priced at £2000.

Highland Cow Milk

Highland cows do not produce as much milk as dairy cows but will produce around 9 litres per day. It is harder to extract the milk due to smaller teats! Highland milk has a very high butterfat content of up to 10%, which can be an acquired taste for humans, but is ideal for a young highland calf to gain weight naturally as nature intended.

Can you make cheese from Highland cow milk?

Yes, the milk from highland cattle is amazing for cheese making, given the higher butterfat level. Caboc, one of Scotland's oldest cheeses, is made from highland cow milk. This is a double cream cheese and made without rennet, and it is very rich thick and creamy. It is rolled into 4cm logs and covered in toasted oatmeal. First produced in the 15th century, it was only affordable by the very rich.

Can Highland cows see?

The fringe of hair over the eyes of the cow is known as a "dossan", and yes it does seem to obstruct their vision... but when your a cow and all you eat is grass, maybe learning down to feed gives them enough vision to see. Maybe highland cows have heightened senses, or just don't care, but it's amazing how they can function with such poor visibility.

Are Highland cows friendly to humans?

Incredibly friendly. I drove directly past Highland cows grazing while I was on a quad bike last year, and even with very young calves next to them, they were totally unphased and kept chewing the cud.

It's not unknown to be charged by Highland cows, though, so it's always best to keep a respectful distance and not enter a field where they are grazing. Even if a Highland cow approaches you at a field perimeter, be aware of its horns which could unintentionally (or intentionally) hurt you.

Believe it or not, cows are responsible for the most human deaths per year in the United Kingdom from stampedes, kicks or just crowding humans and crushing them out of simple curiosity. I'm not sure if Highland cows are any more aggressive than normal cows but best to play it safe!

Where to see Highland Cows in Scotland?

Good question, it's hard to know exactly all of the locations but I have personally seen them:

• Rothiemurchus Estate while  quad biking , Aviemore, Highlands.
• In the field directly next to Castle Roy , Nethy Bridge.
• Next to  Balvenie Castle  in Dufftown, Moray.
• Sometimes at  Ruthven Barracks , Highlands.
• Culloden Battlefield , Inverness.
• Highland Folk Museum , Newtonmore/Aviemore.
• Various locations around  Cairngorms National Park .
• Pollok Country Park, Glasgow.
• Dochgarroch Lock, Loch Ness, Inverness. See them before you  cruise Loch Ness .
• Swanston Farm, Pentland Hills,  Edinburgh .
• Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry.
• Applecross Peninsula, north west Highlands.
• Spean Bridge, Lochaber, Highlands.
• Memsie, near Fraserburgh.
• River Lochy, Fort William.
• Loch Clair, Achnasheen, west Highalands.
• Kingussie, Highlands.
• Beauly, Highlands.
• Lochgilphead.
• Halkirk, Caithness.
• Lochearnhead, Perthshire.
• Loch Lomond.
• Hillhead Farm, Aberdeen.
• Castle Roy, Nethy Bridge.
• Fields below Stirling Castle.
• Bowawe, near Oban.
• Dulnain Bridge, Grantown-on-Spey.
• Crask Inn, Sutherland.
• Isle of Iona.
• Duirinish, Kyle.

Farm shows & Highland games

Farm shows and highland games can often be a great time to see highland cows. The cows are often groomed to ensure the best look for judges. Their coats are treated with conditioners to fluff them up and make them more like large calves. These are often called "fluffy cows" and they look very cute in their pampered form and are major attractions at shows and highland games.

Highland cows in pop culture

As mentioned before, highland cows feature greatly in marketing Scotland to the world and may be one of the first icons of Scotland that springs to mind, other than tartan or bagpipes.

Artist Steve Brown took it to the next level and created colourful art based on Highland cows. You can see the piece below from my brother's house. Check out  Steve Brown's Highland Cow prints .

Highland Cattle Society

Founded in 1884, the Highland Cattle Society represents highland cattle breeders in the UK and abroad and seeks to preserve highland cow breed standards and ensure the welfare of the animals. The society also promotes the breed worldwide both for conservation and for the farming of high-quality meat.

Highland cows are the oldest registered breed of cattle in the world and therefore requires a great deal of administration to maintain a pure bloodline and track any genetic variation.

Queen Elizabeth is the current patron of the society and even keeps her own fold at Balmoral Castle which has won many awards. Highland cattle beef is said to be the only beef her royal highness will consume.

Please read about the  Highland Cattle Society  on their official website.

So there we have it, an in-depth article on highland cows today. I hope it was of some interest to you and you intend to seek out some highland coos upon your visit to Scotland. They are amazing creatures and the true national animal of Scotland.

Further reading: Are there bears in Scotland? ,  Newts in Scotland , Pine martens in Scotland .

All information was correct at the time of writing, please check things like entry costs and opening times before you arrive.

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