Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh
The best Highland Cow experience in Edinburgh
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2-3 hour tour
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Easily accessible from the centre of Edinburgh
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Encounter Highland Cows in their natural environment
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See Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the sea
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Meeting point: Hillend Country Park
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Finishing point: Swanston Village
This hike takes us into the hills on the outskirts of Edinburgh. We enjoy far-reaching views over the city and experience the fresh mountain air.
This is the best chance you'll get to see Highland Cows in their natural environment. The small herd is here on the hillside 365 days per year, helping to restore the landscape and wildlife. They have free roam of a large area, so sometimes they can take a while to find, but the search is part of the fun. Your guide has a tried-and-tested method for finding the cows on the hill, which has never failed yet.
Along the way we'll see a wide variety of native wildlife including flowers, birds, plants, and other animals.
The tour starts at Hillend, which is easily accessible from the centre of Edinburgh by taxi or bus. We finish in Swanston, where you can either head back into Edinburgh or get lunch at Swanston Brasserie.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
01
How Many Highland Cows will we see?
Usually we see 7 cows on the hill and 3 cows at the end at the farm
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How do I get to the meeting point?
We meet at Hillend Country Park Carpark. You can take a taxi or a bus from the city centre. The nearest bus stop is Lothianburn Golf Club (a short walk away)
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How Hard is the hike?
It depends on your own level of experience and fitness. Beginners are very welcome, as long as you're happy hiking on steep trails for up to 3 hours. Your guide will ensure the pace is suitable for the group, with plenty of breaks for a rest. Maximum distance 6km and 300m of ascent
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Can we pet the cows?
This herd of Highland Cows lives on the hillside 365 days per year. They graze freely and don't usually get fed, so they are not interested in being petted by humans. We have to respect their personal space and stay a safe distance away
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What do I need to bring?
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Suitable hiking shoes/boots
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A jacket (waterproof recommended)
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Water
Expect it to be colder and windier on the hill than in the city.
In cold weather bring a hat and gloves.
In sunny weather bring a sunhat/suncream
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How Long does the hike take?
It depends where the cows are on the hillside. They have a large area where they can roam free, so the whole tour takes us between two and three hours
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Have you ever not seen the cows?
We've always seen the cows on the hillside. We don't know exactly where they will be, but we have a method to find them
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Do you see any other wildlife during the tour?
Yes lots! It varies through the seasons:
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Wild flowers
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Wild berries (foraging opportunity)
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Birds of prey
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Grouse
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Deer
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Much more...
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Can we get photos with the cows?
Yes absolutely! While maintaining a safe distance, we can get close enough for good photos. The mountains, the city, and Edinburgh Castle provide a great backdrop
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Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes. Children over 10 years old are welcome when accompanied by a responsible adult. They must be able to complete the 3-hour hike on their own