Where to see Highland Cows in Scotland

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

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.