Half Day-Highland Cow, Craigmillar Castle and Melrose Tour
Tour Highlights
Where Outlander History Lives
Meet Friendly Highland Cows
Scotland's 'Ship That Never Sailed'
Taste Traditional Scottish Treats
Overview
Ancient Stones to Gentle Giants: A Half Day Highland Cow Experience Edinburgh
Journey beyond the usual tourist trail to discover one of Scotland’s most dramatic fortresses with our Craigmillar Castle tour, and meet Scotland’s most beloved residents during our unique highland cow meet and greet Scotland experience.
Perfect for families and those seeking authentic Half Day Highland Cows Scotland experiences, this tour combines centuries of history with unforgettable moments alongside our gentle giants. Our highland cow tours Scotland experiences take you away from the typical tourist spots, allowing intimate encounters with these iconic Scottish natives in their natural environment.
As one of the most sought-after Highland Cow experience Edinburgh adventures, we’ve thoughtfully designed this tour to give you plenty of time up close with our hairy friends. You’ll learn about their unique characteristics, capture perfect photos, and perhaps even pet or feed them as you get to know their personalities!
Each moment of this journey brings you closer to Scotland’s rich heritage – from the dramatic walls of Craigmillar Castle, known for jailing Mary Queen of Scots, to the peaceful fields where our Highland cattle graze. This perfectly balanced shortened day adventure ensures you experience the best of both Scottish history and wildlife.
Please be advised that we require 4 participants to run this tour, if we do not meet that number we will contact those who have booked 48 hours before tour departure to arrange a full refund or reschedule.
Itinerary
Information
Discover everything you need to know about this tour, including highlights, itinerary details, inclusions, exclusions, and important travel information.
Full Itinerary Details
Runs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays during summer
Duration: 6 hours from 9am to approx 3.30pm
This carefully crafted half-day tour combines royal history with unique Highland cow encounters:
Edinburgh Departure -9 am
- As you make your journey out of the city, enjoy a short driving tour of Edinburgh
Craigmillar
- Explore this mighty 16th-century fortress
- Discover dramatic Scots history and enchanting tales
- Stunning views across Lothian and the North Sea
- Tales of royal intrigue and medieval pacts which changed Scotland’s story
Melrose Visit
- Stroll around the historic border town of Melrose
- Take time with the awe inspiring ruins of a medieval abbey
- Enjoy the opportunity to grab a bite to eat if you like or simply enjoy the pleasant surrounds.
Highland Cow Experience:
- Private farm visit with up close experiences of Highland cows
- Perfect photo opportunities including the chance to meet newborn calves
- Learn about Scotland’s iconic breed and feed them
Back to Edinburgh through gorgeous rolling countryside for 3.30pm
Tour Includes
- Professional driver/guide
- Standard Transport in minibus– up to 16 passengers
- Craigmillar Castle Entry
- Highland Cow Encounter
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
- Water
Important Information
- Season: All year round
- Physical level: ◆ ◆
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Time on the road: 2 hours 30 mins
- 9am start time
- Pick-up location: Outside the Castle Arms, 6 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2PW
- This tour only runs if we have 3 participants, if this is not met then the tour will be cancelled 48 hours ahead of departure and a full refund or reschedule will be offered.
What To Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes – a few of the walking locations can get rather muddy!
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Water bottle
Sustainability
At Scottish Odyssey, we are dedicated to responsible tourism. We partner with The Future Forest Company to plant a tree for every tour booked, ensuring we give back to Scotland’s beautiful landscapes. Our commitment to sustainability also extends to collaborating with local communities and minimising road travel where possible.
Tour Map
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