From May to August we offer a unique opportunity to visit two Scottish hill farms on the Glenlivet Estate, within the Cairngorms National Park, to see two different approaches to how we farm the land.

Ruthven Farm

A traditional upland livestock farm running mainly Blackface sheep and mules, Proud winners of the Cairngorms Nature Farm Award in 2016, and then the RSPB Nature of Farming Award (Food and Farming category) in 2017, recognising the environmentally sensitive management of the farm. Our particular focus is on habitat enhancement to encourage both resident and visiting species of wildlife. Tours run May - August.

Wild Farm 

This farm has diversified from familiar breeds into farming red deer and fallow deer as well as ancient breeds such as iron age pigs, soay sheep, and belted Galloway cattle. These hardy animals are perfectly adapted to the conditions in the Highlands and allow the land to be used to its full extent. It is also possible to meet reindeer from the famous Cairngorm Herd here. Tours run May - August.

About the Tour

These two farms are just 2 miles apart so in one day a tour of each farm is perfect, giving time for lunch and possibly time to explore other places of interest as well.

Each farm tour is on foot (stout footwear and waterproof jacket recommended) and will take between 1 ½  to 2 hours. To find out what you may encounter at each farm visit the individual pages.

The two farms compliment each other and ideally visiting both will give groups a fascinating insight into how farming can be profitable in today’s world. 

We offer tours from May to August to both farms. This tends to be the months that the weather is a little more agreeable!

A single visit to just one of the farms is also possible by arrangement.

 

Group OR PRIVATE TOurs

We are available to book for any size group from small private groups to large coach parties. There is coach parking available at both farms. Booking is essential. 

KEY INFORMATION  

  • Expert guiding from highly knowledgeable farmers.

  • The tour is conducted on foot, so please be prepared for walking.

  • Scotland can provide sun, rain and snow in the same day, so plan for a variety of weather!

  • Tours available from May to August.