Introduction
Winter is a magical time of year. It’s hard to see Scotland in a more beautiful fashion than on one of those crisp, clear, wintry days when the skies are a bright blue, and the heather is covered in a dusting of frost and snow.
The countryside transforms into a winter wonderland, making it the perfect time to pop your jacket on, head outside, and explore a real working Scottish farm. Meet friendly animals, enjoy stunning scenery, and warm up with a luxury hot chocolate in the cosy farm café!
Snuggle up in a Cosy Farm Cottage
There’s nothing quite like staying in a cosy farm cottage during the winter months. Picture yourself beside a roaring wood burner, surrounded by exposed stone walls and wooden beams, all set in a peaceful rural location far from the busyness of everyday life. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a winter escape, a farm cottage offers the perfect blend of comfort and charm.
With plenty of fantastic farm stays across Scotland, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Explore our farm cottages page or browse our regional overview pages to find your perfect winter retreat.
Winter Farm Tours
The best way to truly experience a real working farm is by joining a farm tour. These tours come in many forms, from exciting quad bike or trailer rides to hands-on moments spent with the farm’s lovable residents. Along the way, you’ll hear eye-opening stories about the challenges and rewards of farm life - especially during the harsh winter months. And, as if that’s not enough, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views that make every step worth it.
Make sure to have a look at our previous blog where we outline some of the best farm tours in Scotland.
Warm Up at a Cosy Farm Cafe
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing better than stepping into a cosy, welcoming café on a working farm, where you can warm up with tasty food and comforting drinks. You’ll also be assured of fresh locally produced food, with many dishes being made with ingredients grown right there on the farm, resulting in a lunch to savour. Soups are popular this time of year, as well as sweet treats like a luxury hot chocolate (the chocolatier the better!).
There are many fantastic farm cafes all over Scotland. To find the nearest one to you, visit our eating out page by clicking here.
Enjoy a Winter Walk
Walking in winter can be a magical experience. Don't be put off by the cold! With the right clothing and appropriate weather, it can be a fantastic experience. It’s fascinating to see how the countryside transforms during these months, with the hills donning their winter coats and forests resembling a true winter wonderland.
Many farms across Scotland offer great walking routes, such as Comrie Croft in Perthshire and Logie Steading in Moray Speyside. Walking is even better if you can finish at (or near to) a cosy farm café. Reward yourself by popping in for some hearty food and warm drinks!
Visit our sports page to discover other activities you can get up to on real working Scottish farms.
Spot Wildlife
Scotland is home to a wealth of incredible wildlife, and working farms provide the perfect setting for those with a keen eye to spot some of it.
Argaty Red Kites in Stirlingshire offer Red Kite feeding experiences, as well as being a great location to spot Beavers. Whereas Alvie & Dalraddy Estate in the Cairngorms National Park is the perfect place to spot the famous Red Squirrel and Red Stag. There’s plenty of other options, and simply going a walk on a real working farm will offer up opportunities to catch more wildlife.