There are very few farm animals that inspire quite the same reaction as a Highland cow – but why are Highland Cows so popular?
People spot them from car windows and immediately reach for their phones.
Tourists add them to their Scotland bucket lists.
Children fall in love with them.
And even people who know very little about farming somehow seem to know exactly what a Highland cow looks like.
So what is it about these shaggy-haired Scottish icons that captures people’s imagination?
A Breed With Deep Scottish Roots
Highland cattle are one of Scotland’s oldest and most recognisable breeds.
Originally bred to thrive in the rugged Highlands and Islands, they developed the characteristics that make them so distinctive today: long coats, impressive horns and remarkable resilience.
Unlike many modern breeds, Highland cattle were shaped by the landscape itself. Harsh weather, rough grazing and challenging conditions helped create animals capable of thriving where others struggled.
Centuries later, they remain one of the most recognisable symbols of Scotland.
Is It the Hair?
Let’s be honest. The hair does a lot of the heavy lifting.
That famous fringe often seems to have a personality of its own.
Part hairstyle.
Part weather protection.
Part photography magnet.
Their double coat helps protect them from Scotland’s unpredictable weather, but for many visitors it’s the feature that makes them instantly recognisable.
It’s also remarkably effective at encouraging people to take far more photographs than they originally intended.
We regularly see visitors arrive saying they’ll take “just a couple of photos” before quietly filling their camera roll.
More Than Just a Pretty Face
The surprising thing about Highland cows is that their popularity isn’t only about how they look.
Visitors are often struck by how calm they seem.
They have a quiet confidence about them.
They’re rarely in a hurry.
Perhaps that’s part of their appeal.
In a world that often feels busy and noisy, Highland cows seem completely unbothered by it all.
They graze slowly.
They watch the world go by.
They’re never in a hurry.
Perhaps that’s why so many people leave the farm feeling a little calmer than when they arrived.
Spend a little time watching Highland cows and you’ll quickly realise they’re in absolutely no hurry to be anywhere. Many of our visitors tell us that’s part of the appeal of a day at Jacksons too.
Why Do People Love Highland Cows So Much?
We think Highland cows represent something people feel increasingly drawn towards.
Nature.
Connection.
Authenticity.
They’re strongly associated with Scotland’s landscapes, traditions and rural heritage.
Meeting one feels a little like stepping into the Scotland people imagine when they first decide to visit.
That’s why visitors travel from across the UK and around the world to see them.
Some arrive with Highland cows firmly at the top of their Scotland wish list. Others simply discover them while visiting the farm and end up wondering why they didn’t meet them sooner.
And it’s why so many leave talking about the Highland cows long after they’ve returned home.
Highland Cow Facts That Surprise Visitors
Both Males and Females Have Horns
This is probably the question we answer most often.
“Are they all boys because they all have horns?”
The answer is no!
Both male and female Highland cattle grow horns. Bulls tend to have shorter, thicker horns that point forwards, while cows usually have longer, more elegant horns that curve upwards. Once you know the difference, it’s surprisingly easy to spot who’s who.
They’re Built for Scottish Weather
Their famous double coat helps protect them from wind, rain and cold temperatures.
They’re Surprisingly Agile
Despite their size, Highland cattle are excellent at navigating rough terrain and challenging landscapes.
They Have a Long History
The breed has existed in Scotland for centuries and remains one of the country’s most iconic agricultural symbols.
Meet Bonnie
If you’ve visited Jacksons recently, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about Bonnie.
Bonnie is one of our bottle-reared Highland cows.
Born as a twin and needing a little extra support when she was younger, she quickly became part of daily life around the farm and a firm favourite with visitors.
People often ask about her by name.
Children look out for her when they arrive. Quite a few adults do too.
And once they’ve met her, they rarely forget her.
Bonnie’s story reminds us why people connect so strongly with Highland cows in the first place.
They’re not simply beautiful animals.
They each have their own personalities, quirks and stories.
For many visitors, that’s what transforms a photograph into a memory.
You can read more about Bonnie and our other baby Highland cows here.
Meet Ben
Whilst Bonnie might steal plenty of attention, keep an eye out for Ben, our magnificent Highland bull.
Ben is the proud dad of all this year’s Highland calves and is impossible to miss thanks to his enormous head, spectacular horns and deep rumbling call that visitors often say sounds more like a lion than a cow.
He’s gentle, impressive and one of the true characters of the farm.
If you’re visiting during the summer, you may even spot this year’s Highland calves staying close to their mums – a sight that never gets old, no matter how many times we see it.
Why Highland Cows Matter at Jacksons
Ask Fenwick about Highland cattle and you’ll quickly discover they’re much more than a visitor attraction.
He has a genuine passion for the breed and the role it can play in sustainable, low-intervention farming.
Through careful breeding, he’s working to improve traits that help produce healthier, more resilient cattle for the future.
Visitors often arrive because they want to see Highland cows.
They leave having learned a little more about why these remarkable animals matter.
You Don’t Need to Book an Experience to See Them
While our Highland Cow Experience is incredibly popular, it’s not the only way to enjoy the herd.
Our self-guided Highland Way takes you out to see the Highland cows in their natural surroundings, where you can watch them grazing peacefully across the Borders countryside.
Many visitors spend just as long standing quietly at the fence watching the herd as they do taking photographs.
It’s a wonderful way to slow down, enjoy the fresh air and experience these remarkable animals at their own pace.
Where Can You Meet Highland Cows in Scotland?
You can occasionally spot Highland cows from roadsides, train windows and walking routes across Scotland.
And while spotting one from a car window is always exciting, it usually leaves people wanting a closer look.
At Jacksons, visitors can enjoy a Highland Cow Experience that includes a scenic trailer ride, time with the herd and the chance to learn more about one of Scotland’s most beloved breeds.
Or simply follow the Highland Way during your farm visit and enjoy watching the herd whenever you like.
For many visitors, it’s the highlight of their trip to the Scottish Borders.
Looking for a Gift for a Highland Cow Lover?
Know someone who lights up every time they spot a Highland cow?
Our Highland Cow Experience vouchers make a thoughtful gift for animal lovers, Scotland enthusiasts and anyone who’s ever wanted to spend time with these remarkable animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Highland cows so popular?
Highland cows combine striking looks, calm personalities and a strong connection to Scotland’s landscapes and heritage.
Are Highland cows friendly?
Highland cattle are generally known for their calm temperament, although all farm animals should always be treated with respect.
Why do Highland cows have long hair?
Their double coat helps protect them from Scotland’s weather and allows them to thrive outdoors throughout the year.
Why are Highland cows called Highland cows?
They originated in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, where they were bred to thrive in rugged landscapes and harsh weather conditions.
Can you meet Highland cows in Scotland?
Yes. At Jacksons at Jedburgh, visitors can meet Highland cows during farm visits, enjoy the self-guided Highland Way or book a dedicated Highland Cow Experience.
Come and Meet the Highland Cows
There really is something special about standing just a few metres away from a Highland cow.
Whether it’s Ben’s unmistakable growl, Bonnie’s curious personality or simply watching the herd graze peacefully across the Borders countryside, it’s an experience that photographs can never quite capture.
We’d love to welcome you to the farm and introduce you properly.
After all, some things are best experienced in person.
Just don’t be surprised if you leave with far more photos than you planned.
Find out more about Highland Cows in this article from Edinburgh Zoo.
