Though they aren’t Scotland’s national animal, Highland cows are undoubtedly one of the country’s most iconic creatures.
Hairy and loveable, these gentle giants are exceptionally hardy and are known for thriving in the harshest of conditions; a necessity for a breed which originated in a place where you can experience all four seasons in one day.
But beyond being hardy, Highland cows are also recognised around the world for their adorable looks. Their long, double-layered shaggy coats, tough horns and distinctive, floppy fringes have helped them become one of Scotland’s biggest tourist attractions.
Though they can be found all around the country in the wild, if you are desperate to meet a Highland cow you don’t need to leave it to chance.
From the Scottish Borders all the way up to the Highlands and Islands, here are 25 places in Scotland where you can see Highland cows.
9. Aikenshill Highlands, Aberdeen
The Aikenshill Fold of Highland cows first began in 2012 when owner James Duthie purchased cattle instead of horses for his daughters, Also operating his own accommodation business, the fold has grown into an attraction of its own in recent years with the business now even launching Aikenshill Highlands Weddings in 2025. To book, you can visit their website online. | Jof - stock.adobe.com
10. Aberdeenshire Highland Beef, Banchory, Aberdeenshire
Having recently won an award for best UK visitor attraction by North American customers, Aberdeenshire Highland Beef at Lochton of Leys Farmhouse in Banchory offer Highland Cow experiences to their guests. Run by Grace Noble, who grew up around farming on the Isle of Skye, the business offers bookable tours, talks and selfie opportunities with Highland cows in addition to other livestock. | MarkLG1973 - stock.adobe.com
11. Newparks Farm, Muiravonside Country Park, Linlithgow
If you’re visiting Muiravonside Country Park in Linlithgow, it’s also worth stopping by Newparks Farm which is home to a number of farm animals including five Highland Cows. The park is close to the Kelpies in Falkirk and was also among the filming locations for Outlander. | Steven Whitcher - stock.adobe.com
12. Rothiemurchus Highland Estate, Cairngorms National Park, Highlands
Grazing on the sweet pastures around the native forest, if you’re looking to see some Highland cows in the Cairngorms then look no further than the Rothiemurchus Estate. You can guarantee a sighting with their Hairy Coo Safari by foot or their Land Rover Experience by car. | prn.studio - stock.adobe.com