Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Most Photogenic Residents

If you've spent any time scrolling through photos of Scotland, chances are you've seen them. Those shaggy, long-haired, golden brown beauties grazing against a backdrop of rolling green hills or misty lochs. Highland cows {or Heilan Coos as the locals lovingly call them} are one of Scotland's most iconic sights.
With their sweet personalities, long locks, and undeniable charm, spotting one in person is a highlight for many travelers. I'm not going to lie, I thought they'd be as plentiful as sheep are in Ireland, but alas, that's not the case. You really do have to do a little "hunting" for them, but if it's a priority for you to see them, this guide will help you get the chance to have an encounter with a coo!
Whether you're road tripping through the Highlands, exploring Edinburgh, or visiting a small farm cafe, there are plenty of places where you can see a Highland cow up close. You just have to work for it a bit. Below, I've rounded up some of the best spots to see Highland cows in Scotland, from farms and hotel grounds to organized tours, plus a few tips for making your visit unforgettable.

Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Most Photogenic Residents

A Quick Look at Highland Cows

Highland cows are one of the oldest registered cattle breeds in the world, originally bred to survive the rugged weather of the Scottish Highlands. Their distinctive long coats help them stay warm through wind, rain, and snow, while their gentle temperament makes them approachable and photogenic. Don't forget that they are still farm animals so don't let your guard down too much!
Highland cows come in a range of colors from ginger and black to blonde, brindle, and even white and are known for being just a little bit like a domestic dog, hardy, friendly and curious.

Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland

As someone who was probably a little bit naive, I thought Highland cows would be easier to find. I mean, when I was in Ireland sheep were on nearly every hillside and in Iceland, the Icelandic Horse was grazing in much of the countryside.

Highland cows just weren't like that. So here's a quick guide, organized by region, to help you plan your Highland coo encounters. Whether you're based in Edinburgh, touring the Highlands, or road-tripping along the west coast, you'll find a spot that fits your itinerary.

What to Know About Driving Around Scotland

Edinburgh & Surrounding Area

Perfect if you’re visiting Scotland’s capital and want an easy, accessible coo encounter.

• Prestonfield Hotel, Edinburgh – Three Highland cows roam the lush grounds of this elegant hotel, making it one of the easiest and most scenic places to spot them. You can stroll the beautiful property (no long walks required) and even stay for lunch or dinner. Make it that much more special and book a room here!

• Swanston Farm, Edinburgh – Just outside the city, this working farm offers open views of the Pentland Hills and plenty of Highland cows. It’s a lovely, peaceful stop for photos.

• Muiravonside Park, near Linlithgow – A family-friendly countryside park with Highland cows, nature trails, and picnic areas.

Glasgow & Central Scotland

Urban meets rustic — perfect for day trips or weekend explorers.

• Pollok Country Park, Glasgow – One of the city’s green gems. You’ll often find Highland cows grazing in the meadows here, right within Glasgow’s south side.

• Trossachs Woollen Mill, Kilmahog – A favorite stop for travelers driving through the Trossachs. You can usually spot Highland cows just outside the shop! Perfect for a quick photo op and souvenir stop.

• Taste Perthshire (near Bankfoot) – A great place to stretch your legs and grab a meal on your way north. Highland cows often graze in nearby fields.

• Five Sisters Zoo, West Calder – While not wild, the zoo offers a chance to see Highland cows and other native animals up close.

The Highlands & Islands

If you’re heading north, this is prime Highland cow country.

• Culloden Battlefield, near Inverness – History and Highland cows in one stop. The grazing coos here add a touch of calm to this powerful historic site.

• Visitor Centre, Glencoe – Beautiful scenery and often a few Highland cows nearby. You can also spot them along the roadside between Glencoe and Fort William.

• Robertson’s The Larder, Beauly – A farm shop and café north of Inverness, where you can meet the resident Highland cows before enjoying homemade treats.

• Farm Ness, Inverness – A small farm experience that lets visitors get up close to the coos and learn more about rural Scottish life.

• Loch Ness Highland Cows, Drumnadrochit – Convenient for travelers exploring Loch Ness. A short visit can yield some of the best coo selfies around.

• Kitchen Coos & Ewes, Dumfries & Galloway – Their “Highland Coo Safari” is one of the most immersive experiences out there. You’ll ride through fields to see Highland cows in their natural environment and learn from passionate farmers.

• The Cladich Fold of Highland Cattle, Argyll – A family-run fold near Loch Awe, offering visits by appointment.

• Aikenshill Farm, near Aberdeen – A working farm known for its picturesque herd and sea views.

• Hector’s Highland Coos, Isle of Skye – Probably one of the most photographed coos in Scotland! Located along the roadside near Dunvegan.

• Duirinish Croft Café, Isle of Skye – Enjoy a meal while watching the coos graze just beyond the patio.

• Ardgour & Barcaldine (near Fort William) – These areas often have Highland cows near farms and lodges — especially scenic spots for photographers.

• Drambuie Farm & Untethered Skye – Both offer authentic croft experiences on the Isle of Skye, where Highland cows roam freely. We went to both of these, and if I had to choose a favorite, I'd pick Untethered Skye because the access to the coos was much more available than at Drambuie, which has gotten quite popular thanks to social media.

South & Border Regions

If you’re exploring southern Scotland or en route to England, there are still chances to meet Highland cows!

• Jacksons at Jedburgh – A farm shop and café with Highland cows on-site, perfect for a family stop.

• Dalscone Farm, Dumfries – A fun, family-friendly farm park where kids can see Highland cows up close.

Tours That Feature Highland Cows

If you’d rather not drive, several guided tours include stops to see Highland cows:

• Rabbie’s “Oban & the Highlands” Tour – A full-day trip that includes multiple scenic stops with good chances to spot Highland cows.

• Stewart Tours “Glenfinnan & Glencoe” Tour – Another great option that mixes scenic views, history, and some of the best coo encounters around.

• Get Your Guide Edinburgh: Highland Cow, Blackness Castle, and Cake tour-Experience a half day small group tour with a fun coo encounter.

Tips for Seeing Highland Cows

• Keep a respectful distance. Even though they look cuddly, Highland cows are large animals and should not be approached or touched. Use a zoom lens for those close-up photos or tap on that 2x or 5x zoom on your iPhone!

• Plan around the light. Early morning or golden hour {before sunset} gives the best photo lighting and coos tend to be more active.

• Pack waterproof shoes. Many of the best viewing spots are on grassy or muddy ground. Remember, these are farm animals you are going to see, dress accordingly!

• Be patient. Sometimes, the cows roam out of sight especially at farms or open fields. These are still animals and they have a mind of their own! Not every sighting is guaranteed! 

• Support small farms. When you visit farms, cafés, or local tours, you’re helping keep these traditions alive.

Seeing a Highland coo in Scotland is high on a lot of people's list, and for good reason! They are such sweet creatures and we really don't have anything like it! So grab your camera, plan your route, and get ready to meet the real stars of the Highlands, the iconic Heilan coos!

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