If you’ve ever dreamed of meeting a Highland cow up close, you’re not alone.
With their shaggy coats, sweeping horns, and surprisingly gentle personalities, Highland cows are one of Scotland’s most iconic animals. And here at Jacksons at Jedburgh, we offer visitors the chance to get much closer than a photo from the roadside.
Our Highland Cow Experience is a relaxed, family-friendly experience that gives you the opportunity to meet these incredible animals in the beautiful surroundings of our working family farm in the Scottish Borders.
Whether you’re visiting from nearby, travelling from Edinburgh or Newcastle, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for something a little different, we’d love to welcome you.
What Happens During the Highland Cow Experience?
One of the questions we’re asked most often is, “What actually happens on the experience?”
So here’s exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Arrive at the Farm
When you arrive at Jacksons at Jedburgh, you’ll be welcomed at reception before having some time to get settled.You’ll find toilets, handwashing facilities, refreshments, and plenty of space to take in the surroundings before the tour begins. We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before your booking time.
Step 2: Welcome Talk
At the start of the experience, we’ll gather everyone together for a short welcome and introduction. We’ll explain a little about the farm, the Highland cows you’ll be meeting, and what to expect during your visit. Then it’s time to head off to meet the stars of the show.
Step 3: A Scenic Trailer Ride Through the Farm
Climb aboard the trailer and enjoy a leisurely ride through the farm.
As we make our way across the fields, you’ll get a glimpse of real farm life alongside some stunning views of the Scottish Borders countryside. For many visitors, this is all part of the experience – slowing down, enjoying the fresh air, and escaping the rush of everyday life.
Step 4: Meet the Highland Cows and Calves
Our first stop is the field where you’ll meet the Highland cows and, depending on the time of year, their calves too. Depending on the time of year, you may even meet this year’s calves. If you’d like to learn more about the newest additions to the fold, you can read about this year’s baby Highland cows and their personalities here.
This is where you’ll have plenty of time to:
- Take photographs
- Learn about the cows
- Ask questions
- Enjoy the scenery
- Watch the herd interact
The cows are naturally curious and often wander over to investigate their visitors. If you’ve been hoping for those classic Highland cow photos, this is the moment!
Step 5: Get Hands-On With Young Highland Cows
After returning to the yard, we head into the shed to meet some of our younger Highland cows.
This is often a favourite part of the experience. Visitors have the opportunity to get much closer, touching and feeding the young cows while learning more about how they’re cared for.
It’s a brilliant chance to appreciate just how friendly, inquisitive, and full of character Highland cows can be. Children especially love this part, although we have to admit the adults are often just as excited.
Step 6: Explore the Farm
Once your guided experience is finished, your visit doesn’t have to end there. After your tour, you’re welcome to explore the rest of the farm, including the play area, farm walks, and animal paddocks. It’s one of the reasons we’re often recommended as a family day out in the Scottish Borders.
Meet the other animals, enjoy the play area, wander the farm walks, or simply sit with a tea, coffee, or ice cream and enjoy the views.
We like to think the best days out aren’t rushed.
Ready to meet the cows for yourself? Check availability here.
Who Is the Highland Cow Experience For?
One of the lovely things about the experience is how varied our visitors are. Many visitors make a full day of their trip, combining the Highland Cow Experience with time exploring the farm, meeting the other animals, and enjoying the outdoor spaces. If you’re planning a visit with children, you might enjoy reading our guide to why families love visiting Jacksons at Jedburgh.
We regularly welcome:
- Families with young children
- Couples looking for a unique day out
- Grandparents visiting with grandchildren
- Animal lovers
- Photographers
- Visitors to Scotland
- Highland cow enthusiasts
You don’t need any farming knowledge, and you certainly don’t need to be a Highland cow expert. If you like animals, fresh air, and a slower pace of life, you’ll fit right in here!
Looking for a unique gift? Highland Cow Experience gift vouchers are available and make a brilliant present for animal lovers, families, birthdays, anniversaries, or anyone who has always wanted to meet a Highland coo up close.
More Than One Visit
One of the best parts?
Your ticket doesn’t just include the Highland Cow Experience. You’ll also receive access to the farm for the rest of the season on foot, meaning you can come back and visit again and again.
Many of our visitors return throughout the year to see how the animals have grown, experience the changing seasons, and enjoy another day outdoors. It’s one visit that often turns into many – jut head tot he reception/farm shop to grab your season pass!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Highland cows friendly?
Yes. Highland cows are generally known for their calm and gentle nature.
Like all farm animals, they deserve respect and space, but they are naturally inquisitive creatures and are used to seeing visitors on the farm.
Are all Highland cows male?
No.
One of the most common misconceptions is that only male Highland cows have horns.
In fact, both male and female Highland cattle grow horns.
Generally speaking, bulls tend to have shorter, thicker horns, while cows often have longer horns that curve upwards.
Can children take part in the experience?
Absolutely.
The Highland Cow Experience is suitable for children and is one of our most popular family activities.
Children should always remain with their accompanying adults during the tour.
How long does the experience last?
The guided Highland Cow Experience lasts approximately one hour.
However, many visitors stay much longer to enjoy the rest of the farm.
What should I wear?
This is a working farm in Scotland, so sensible footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are always recommended.
A little mud is all part of the experience!
Looking for Things to Do in the Scottish Borders?
If you’re searching for:
- Highland cow experience Scotland
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- Things to do in the Scottish Borders
then we’d love to welcome you to Jacksons at Jedburgh.
Come and meet one of Scotland’s most iconic animals, enjoy a relaxed day outdoors, and experience a real working farm in the heart of the Borders.
Book Your Highland Cow Experience
Whether you’re planning a family day out, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to meet one of Scotland’s most iconic animals, we’d love to welcome you to the farm.
Spaces are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Looking for a gift? Gift vouchers are available too.
We look forward to welcoming you to the farm soon. Looking to lear more about Highland Cows? The Highland Cow Society is a great source of information.
