Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
See the famous Hairy Cows in Edinburgh
Join an Edinburgh-based Mountain Guide on a hike in the hills on the outskirts of the city
Scotland's mountains are world famous, so a trip to the hills should definitely be on your to-do list when you're in Edinburgh.
Experience the rugged beauty of some of Scotland's mountains as you hike through some of the country's most amazing landscapes.
This short hike takes us far into the hills, where we often see rare wildlife, spectacular cityscapes, and incredible mountain views.
We meet at Hillend, which is about 30 minites from the city centre.
Our hike then takes us up to a high viewpoint, where we can see over the city and to the sea.
We descend down the hillside where we can look for the local herd of Highland Cows grazing in their natural mountain environment. The cows live out on the hill 365 days a year and are kept as conservation grazers, helping to restore the natural ecology.
Finish at Swanston Farm (lunch can bee booked)
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Edinburgh
We meet just 30 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh
Pentland Hills
Hike up to a view point to see over the city, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the sea
What‘s Included
Qualified Mountain Leader
Please bring you own food and water for the hike
Footwear: Please bring your own suitable pair of hiking boots
Clothing: Please bring warm clothing and a waterproof coat. The weather can quickly become cold, wet and windy
If you would like to have a meal after the hike, please book directly with the Swanston Brasserie
Options
Highland Cow Hike
Reviews
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A+ highland cows experience
Teresa S,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is one of the best experiences I have ever been able to do. Hiking 1500 feet up, seeing the Edinburgh and the North Sea as a panoramic view and walking along a herd of highland cows in their natural surroundings. I would highly recommend this for any outdoorsman.
1st October 2025
Jane E,Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00What can I say, I was so looking forward to this trip, and Marcus did not disappoint, I'm so grateful for all the knowledge you gave me, showing the views both going up and down, explaing about the plants, it was such an added bonus to come back down and be so close to the cows, (I took plenty of pictures), I would definitely do this again in a different season, thank you Marcus you made the trip so much more memorable.
Great morning outing, fresh air and lovely views
Ursula P,Sep 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Marcus was a lovely guide, very organized and knowledgeable about the area. We got lucky with great weather and enjoyed the amazing views that kept getting more and more spectacular the higher we climbed. Finishing for lunch at Swantson Farm was a nice way to finish. They have delicious scones!
Great time hiking outside of the city
Liam F,Jul 2, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Marcus was great. I had a great time out on a trail that I had some degree of choice on. I went for the highest peak as I am a bit of a completionist. The activity was neatly planned with a bus route in mind, so the only think I had to bring was myself. There was a bit of time at the end waiting for the bus to get a coffee or food so I never felt rushed
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Operated by Mountain Marcus