Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland

Let’s be honest. You haven’t really visited Scotland until you’ve met a Highland cow.

These shaggy legends are Scotland’s most photogenic residents. With their windswept fringes and impressive horns, they’re basically supermodels of the cattle world. In Scotland, we call them “Heilan Coos” – and once you see one, you’ll understand the obsession.

But here’s the thing. Highland cows in Scotland aren’t hanging around every corner waiting for selfies. This guide shows you exactly where to find Highland cows, from petting zoo experiences to free roadside encounters.

• Meet these famous cows for yourself on a Scotland trip

A mother cow and her shy calf behind her.

Quick Highland cow facts

Before we dive into locations, let's get to know these northern locals. Highland cattle are one of the oldest registered breeds in the world. They’ve been freely roaming the Scottish Highlands since the 1500s.

Those long, shaggy coats? They’re actually double-layered. The outer layer repels rain while the inner layer keeps them cosy – pure Scottish engineering.

Their famous fringe, called a “dossan”, protects their eyes from insects and weather. Those horns help them dig through snow for food in winter.

Highland cows come in several colours – not just ginger. You’ll spot black, white, yellow, dun, and brindle varieties. They can live up to 20 years, which is average for most breeds of cattle.

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Best Highland cow experiences in Scotland

Highland Cow Tours at Loch Ness (Inverness & Highlands)

This 45-minute tour takes you to a working croft above Drumnadrochit. Soak up sweeping views over Loch Ness while meeting resident coos Heather and Fiona.

Hand-feed the cows and learn about 8 generations of crofting history. The tour includes transport from Drumnadrochit village. It’s the perfect addition to your Loch Ness visit.

Duration: 45 minutes
Location: Drumnadrochit, by Loch Ness

Highland cows enjoying a coastal breeze.

Edinburgh Zoo Highland Cows (Edinburgh)

Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed Highland cattle to its collection, bringing Scotland's shaggiest icons practically to your doorstep. Travel roughly 10 minutes from the centre to meet these gentle giants alongside the zoo’s famous residents.

You’ll find the cows in the Scottish wildlife area. No muddy fields, no wondering if they’ll appear – they’re right there waiting for you. Perfect if you’re travelling with kids or simply want those Instagram shots without the trek.

Chat with the keepers to learn how the zoo supports Highland cattle conservation, and get safely close to these magnificent creatures..

Getting there couldn’t be easier. Regular buses run from the city centre, and there’s plenty of parking if you’re driving.

Duration: Self-guided within your zoo visit
Location: Corstorphine, Edinburgh

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A group of highland calves roaming free.

Pollok Country Park (Glasgow)

Glasgow’s largest park is home to the famous Pollok Fold – around 30 Highland cows grazing the historic grounds year-round. You’re just 10 minutes from the city centre, but it feels like you’ve wandered straight into the Highlands.

Explore at your own pace or join a free guided walk where rangers share stories about each cow’s personality. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their “wash days” – yes, they actually shampoo the coos before shows. It’s ridiculously charming.

Visit in summer, and you could attend one of the Highland Coo Photography events where you’ll learn to capture these photogenic beasts. The park itself is gorgeous too, with woodland trails and the Burrell Collection nearby if you want to make a proper day of it.

Duration: Self-guided or 1-hour guided walks
Location: South Glasgow, 10 minutes from the city centre

Two highland cows enjoying some camera time.

Trossachs Highland Cow Experience (Stirling & Loch Lomond)

At the Trossachs Woollen Mill near Callander, you’ll meet their famous Highland residents, including local celebrity Hamish. These friendly coos hang out right beside the car park – no hiking required. Pop into the shop for a bag of carrots and you can feed them safely over the fence.

The mill sits perfectly between Stirling and Loch Lomond, making it an ideal pit stop on your Trossachs National Park tour. Inside, you’ll find quality Scottish woollens and enough Highland cow merchandise to outfit your entire family. There’s also a lovely café if you fancy watching the coos while you sip your coffee.

Come early morning or late afternoon for the best photos. The Highland cattle are most active then, and you’ll catch that golden light on their shaggy coats.

Duration: 30 minutes
Location: Kilmahog, near Callander

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A highland cow and her calf savouring a glowing sunset together.

Free Highland cow spotting locations

Want to spot Highland cows roaming freely across Scotland? Here’s where to look.

The Scottish Highlands

Glen Coe – Highland cows graze across this dramatic glen. Check fields near Glencoe Village and along the A82. Your Highland tour will likely pass through here.

Fort William area – Look for them around Cow Hill at the town’s edge. In nearby Glen Nevis, you might spot coos grazing with Ben Nevis as their backdrop. Perfect stop on the road to the isles.

Loch Ness surroundings – Spot coos roaming the fields at Cameron’s Tea Rooms in Foyers. The northern shore of Loch Ness, between Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus, also offers you several viewing spots.

Glen Tanar – Highland cattle graze near the road here at the eastern edge of the Cairngorms National Park. It’s a great little detour when you’re travelling between Aberdeen and the Highlands.

Someone handfeeding a highland cow.

Edinburgh and The Lothians

Swanston Farm – In the Pentland Hills, this spot offers you city views and Highland cow encounters. It’s free to visit and just 20 minutes from Edinburgh’s centre.

Beecraigs Country Park – Near Linlithgow, between Edinburgh and Stirling, you’ll find Highland cattle, red deer, and Hebridean sheep. Entry is free, and there are walking trails throughout the estate.

Perthshire

Blair Castle Grounds – North of Pitlochry, Highland coos graze this historic estate. You’ll spot them near the castle entrance or along woodland walks. If you’re lucky, you might catch the resident piper serenading them.

Good to know: It’s free to see the cows, but you’ll need to pay entry if you want to go inside the castle itself.

Taste Perthshire (Bankfoot) – If you’re travelling between Edinburgh and the Highlands, make a stop at Taste Perthshire. You can see Highland cows for free in the field beside the car park, and even buy a bag of feed to have a hands-on encounter with them.

Isle of Skye

Elgol Road – Southern Skye’s most reliable spot, where coos roam freely on unfenced roads. Drive slowly – they have the right of way.

Sligachan – A classic Skye stop with mountain views. You’ll see Highland cattle often grazing near the hotel and bridge.

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A highland cow standing proudly on the Isle of Skye.

North Coast 500

Applecross Peninsula – The famous Bealach na Bà pass almost guarantees a Highland cow sighting.

Durness area – Up on Scotland’s northwestern tip, you’ll likely spot Highland cows on beaches and clifftops. Head to Clachtoll Beach for seaside coo spotting.

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Distilleries with Highland cows

Why not combine whisky tasting with coo spotting? Several Scottish distilleries keep Highland cattle on their grounds.

Macallan Distillery (Aberdeenshire) – Wander the estate to meet their resident herd between tastings.

Arbikie Highland Estate (Angus) – Stop by this sustainable distillery, where coos are named after botanicals.

Glenlivet Distillery (Speyside) – Check surrounding fields for grazing Highland herds.

When to visit Highland cows

You can see Highland cows all year. Spring (April-May) brings adorable calves. Summer gives you the best weather for photos.

Autumn shows off spectacular, fiery scenery. Giving you a scenic backdrop for your photoshoot. In winter, their coats are at their fluffiest, though the weather can make access a bit tricky.

Most highland cow experiences in Scotland run from April through October. Some, like Kitchen Coos and Ewes, welcome you all year.

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A highland cow standing in a pristine, snow-dusted field.

Highland cow etiquette (yes, it’s a thing)

They may be gentle giants, but they’re still large and powerful animals. Here’s how to stay safe while making sure the cows enjoy your visit as much as you do:

If you see calves, admire them from afar. The mothers are protective, and you don’t want to test those horns. Stay on your side of the fence unless you’re on an organised tour – it’s there for a reason.

Want to feed them? Ask first (the owners, not the cows). Their stomachs are surprisingly sensitive, and the wrong snack could make them ill. Got your dog with you? Keep them on a lead at all times. Even the friendliest pup can spook cattle.

If you’re driving through areas with roaming Highland cows, slow right down. They own these roads, and they know it.

Here’s the best bit: if cows approach you, don’t worry. Just try to stay relatively still. They’re not being aggressive – they’re curious. Let them have a sniff, maybe take a selfie, and they’ll wander off.

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A highland cow posing for the camera.

Tips for planning your Highland cow adventure

Book ahead – especially during summer. Most farms offer online booking. Easy.

Dress appropriately – Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear – farms get muddy. Bring layers; Scottish weather changes quickly.

Time it right – Early morning and late afternoon offer the best photo-friendly light. The famous “golden hour” makes those shaggy coats glow.

Bring cash – Many farms sell fresh eggs, local produce, and Highland cow merchandise. Just be sure to bring cash, as some places don’t take cards.

Ready to meet Scotland’s cutest residents?

Highland cows in Scotland are more than just a photo opportunity. They’re living symbols of Scottish heritage. These hardy animals have survived Highland winters for centuries.

Whether you visit a Highland cow petting zoo in Scotland or spot them roaming freely across the glens, meeting these gentle giants is unforgettable.

You can meet them your way. On a self-drive adventure through Scotland’s scenic backroads. As part of a small group tour with like-minded Highland cow fans. Or on a privately guided journey tailored to you.

You can even base yourself in Edinburgh and take multi-day trips around the country.

Get in touch with our Scotland travel experts to start planning your highland cow experience.