Highland cows are generally calm and docile, but they are still large farm animals. Always keep a safe distance, avoid sudden movements, and never try to touch or feed them. It’s also important not to stress or disturb them, as they can be protective – especially if calves are nearby. Respecting their space helps keep both you and the animals safe. Find more information in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Where to see Highland cows in Scotland
No trip to Scotland is complete without meeting a Highland cow or, as we Scots call them, a Highland coo! With their shaggy hair, impressive horns, and calm, curious nature, these adorable animals have become true Scottish icons. Whether you spot them grazing in a glen or posing perfectly for a photo by the coast, encountering a Highland coo is always a highlight. Here’s where to find them across Scotland.
Photo with a Highland cow at Thorabella Farm
Explore by region
Highland cow on the coastal road between Applecross and Shieldaig
North
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!
Bealach Na Bà – One of the best known spots for a guaranteed sighting of free-roaming Highland cows is the minor road called Bealach Na Bà, which translates to 'Pass of the Cattle', a scenic cow drover’s road running between Applecross and Shieldaig. Do drive carefully!
Duirinish – very close to the Isle of Skye bridge, 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 – a must-visit when in the area!
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.
North Coast 500 – along the renowned route between Thurso and Durness, you may see Highland cows grazing in roadside fields. On this stretch, Kirkton Farm offers buggy tours around their Highland cattle farm.
Glen Tanar – on the eastern periphery of the Cairngorms National Park, Highland cows can often be seen grazing in fields near the road. The Glen Tanar Estate also offers a range of activities for visitors.
Drumbuie Farm B&B – for a more immersive experience, consider staying at this lovely B&B on the northern shores of the mystical Loch Ness. It is also a working farm with Highland cattle, and the surrounding fields are a great place to spot them.
Highland cows at Aikenshill House
North east
Aberdeenshire is a fantastic 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.
Macallan Distillery – located in the north west of Aberdeenshire, be sure to take a walk around the estate and meet the distillery’s own herd of Highland cattle.
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef – enjoy a farm and food visit for a hands-on experience in a working farm in Banchory. Their one hour tour can be booked online and includes getting up close to the cows, as well as a delicious beef tasting experience.
Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery – here, you can explore one of the world’s most sustainable distilleries and learn more about whisky, gin and vodka; all while meeting their own hairy friends named after the botanicals used in the spirits production.
Aikenshill House – what could be better than staying where there are Highland cows on site? Visit this luxurious guesthouse and self-catered bothy in Aberdeenshire, which has its own fold of friendly Highland cows on site.
Highland cow at Pollok House and Country Park
Central
The regions of Edinburgh & The Lothians, 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.
Pollok Country Park – Glasgow’s largest park, is home to the iconic Pollok Fold – a herd of around 50 Highland cows that graze the park’s fields throughout the year. Join the Livestock Team for one of the many engaging events that celebrate these magnificent animals and their place in the park’s history.
Muiravonside Country Park – Falkirk's only country park, provides 170 acres of stunning woodland and parkland, a mini demonstration farm, a sculpture trail and a children's play area. There are lots of animals on the farm, including Highland cattle.
Glamis Castle – approximately a 20-minute drive north of Dundee, is the legendary setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and the surrounding grounds are also home to some Highland cows.
Newton Farm Holidays and Tours – winners of the Best Outdoor Experience at our Regional Thistle Awards 2024, is a family-run farm in the Angus countryside. Join an expert guide on a farm tour to see and groom Highland cows, where you can also get to know their resident alpacas!
Swanston Farm – located in the Pentland Hills to the south side of Edinburgh, is a favourite with visitors. Enjoy the beautiful views of the hills and city, while meeting the farm’s lovely herd of Highland cows.
Highland cows at Kitchen Coos and Ewes
South and 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, as well as plenty of Highland cows to see too of course!
Kitchen Coos & Ewes – located further west of Galloway Forest Park, near Newton Stewart. Owners Janet and Neale are delighted to introduce visitors to their Highland cows (and sheep) on guided tours, where you can see the cows happily grazing across the beautiful hills of south Scotland.
Jacksons at Jedburgh – located just south of Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders, it’s another great option for an engaging experience. Sessions and tours of the farm in the tour trailer are led by Mr & Mrs Jackson who have lots of stories of farm life and lovely memories to share.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park – is located just south of Ayr and has its own adorable Highland cow family just waiting to meet you, among a wide variety of other animals.
Highland cow at Ardardan Estate
West
The west of Scotland is known for its dramatic lochs, ancient woodlands, and mountain views, with Highland cattle grazing in some of the most picturesque settings in the country. It’s a region brimming with history and natural beauty and is an ideal place to visit these iconic hairy beasts.
Cladich Fold – tucked away near Loch Awe in Argyll, is home to a historic herd of Highland cattle, with roots going back to the 1800s. Visitors can meet the cows up close on a guided farm tour across beautiful farmland and wooded hills, with the chance to brush their coats.
Ardardan Estate, Argyll – is a family-run farm and café where visitors can enjoy the charm of rural life just a short drive from the Clyde coast. Highland cows graze peacefully in the surrounding fields, making it a great stop for animal lovers.
Highland cows on Mull
Islands
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.
Isle of Islay – renowned for its smoky whiskies, Highland cows roam happily across the landscape as you take in the stunning views. You can reach the island by flying from a Scottish city airport or by taking a ferry from Kennacraig.
Orkney islands – just north east of the mainland, are full of ancient landmarks and make 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. Ferries run from Scrabster, or you can fly from a Scottish city airport.
Isle of Skye – Highland cows wander freely on unfenced roads around Elgol. For a more relaxed visit, head to Untethered Skye, a charming smallholding and café just north of Portree, where you can enjoy excellent coffee and home baking with stunning island views – and get up close to friendly Highland cows.
Isle of Barra – Highland cows wander across fields and golden beaches on this beautiful island gem. You can fly from a Scottish city airport (and experience landing on a beach!) or take a ferry from Oban.
Isle of Mull – Highland cows are an everyday part of island life. You’ll often spot them crossing roads or grazing against the backdrop of the coast, with many crofts and farms welcoming visitors.
Isle of Arran – head to Hairy Coo Encounters where you can get up close to the Maol Fold. Enjoy a unique hands-on experience at the farm where you can pet the coos, brush their long coats, and even pose for a picture of two.
Agricultural shows and events
A popular spring and 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.
Highland cows at the Royal Highland Show
