Aberdeenshire Highland Beef Farm and Shop at Lochton of Leys
Experience authentic Scottish Highland cattle farming, premium beef, and immersive farm tours in the heart of Aberdeenshire countryside.
Nestled in the scenic Scottish countryside near Banchory, Aberdeenshire Highland Beef offers a unique farm experience centered on a 100% pure pedigree Highland cattle herd. Visitors can explore the working farm, meet the iconic Highland cows, and purchase premium beef cuts from the on-site farm shop open weekends. The farm emphasizes ethical, traditional rearing and butchery, delivering high-quality, naturally matured beef.
A brief summary to Aberdeenshire Highland Beef
- Lochton of Leys, Banchory, Farmhouse, AB31 5QB, GB
- +447585007594
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Pre-order your preferred beef cuts by Thursday 10am for weekend collection to ensure availability and freshness.
- Join the Sunday 2pm farm tour to meet the Highland cattle, learn about their care, and enjoy beef tastings.
- Visit the pop-up butchery every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm for on-the-spot premium beef purchases.
- Contact the farm directly to arrange courier delivery if you live outside the local area.
- Wear sturdy footwear and dress for variable Scottish weather when attending farm tours or visiting the outdoor areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from central Banchory takes about 15-20 minutes via the A980. Parking is available on-site but limited, so plan accordingly. The rural roads are well maintained but can be narrow; cautious driving is advised. No parking fees apply.
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Banchory to nearby towns, with the closest stop approximately 3 km from the farm. From the bus stop, a taxi or local ride-share service is recommended for the final leg. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £6 depending on origin.
-
Taxi
Taxis from Banchory town center to the farm take roughly 10 minutes and cost around £10-£15. Advance booking is recommended, especially on weekends when farm tours and shop visits are popular.
-
Walking
Walking from Banchory town center is possible but requires a 45-60 minute walk along rural roads with limited pedestrian paths. Suitable for experienced walkers prepared for uneven terrain and variable weather.
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
- Snow
Discover more about Aberdeenshire Highland Beef
A Living Highland Cattle Heritage
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef is a working farm located at Lochton of Leys near Banchory, in the heart of Aberdeenshire's Deeside region. The farm is home to a herd of 100% genetically pure pedigree Highland cattle, a native Scottish breed known for its distinctive long horns and shaggy coat. These majestic animals live outdoors year-round, thriving in the wild Scottish weather and natural woodlands. Their diet consists of native grasses, heather, and flowers, supported by fresh running burns that provide clean drinking water. This natural lifestyle contributes to the superior quality and flavor of the beef produced here.Farm Shop and Pop-Up Butchery Experience
The farm features a small but well-stocked farm shop at Lochton of Leys, open Saturdays and Sundays from 8am to 8pm. Here, visitors can purchase a wide selection of premium Highland beef cuts, including sirloin, rump, T-bone steaks, roasting joints, burgers, diced steak, and mince. The beef is traditionally hung and matured on-site, ensuring freshness and quality. Pre-orders are welcomed for weekend collections, with exact pricing provided after weighing and preparation. The farm also hosts a pop-up butchery every weekend, allowing customers to buy freshly prepared products directly.Immersive Farm Tours and Food Experiences
Every Sunday at 2pm, Aberdeenshire Highland Beef offers guided tours of the working farm, led by the owner, Grace Noble. These tours provide an intimate opportunity to meet the Highland cattle up close, learn about their history and care, and experience the farm's ethos of ethical and environmentally conscious farming. The tours last around two hours and include refreshments and tasting sessions of the farm’s succulent beef. Larger group tours and bespoke experiences can also be arranged, enhancing the educational and culinary appeal of the visit.Commitment to Ethical Farming and Quality
Grace Noble, the farm’s proprietor, combines her environmental health background with a passion for traditional Scottish farming. The cattle are raised to the highest welfare standards, spending winters on the Cairn O’ Mount hills and coming down for bi-annual health checks. The farm maintains full control over the entire process from rearing to butchery, ensuring transparency, traceability, and premium quality. Locally sourced cattle from nearby Balmoral fold complement the herd, reinforcing regional heritage.Setting and Atmosphere
Set amidst the tranquil and picturesque Aberdeenshire countryside, the farm offers a peaceful rural retreat with scenic views of rolling hills and native woodlands. The environment is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a genuine connection with Scottish agricultural traditions. The farm’s location, signage, and welcoming atmosphere make it accessible yet delightfully removed from urban bustle.Visitor Amenities and Practical Information
Visitors can enjoy refreshments during farm tours and purchase products at the farm shop and pop-up butchery. The farm encourages pre-orders for convenience and ensures a personalized experience. While there is no home delivery, courier services can be arranged for customers outside the local area. The farm operates seasonally with weekend openings and scheduled tours, making it a perfect weekend getaway or day trip destination for food enthusiasts and cultural heritage seekers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Keith's Tower
9.2 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
11.6 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Blairs Museum
18.0 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Boswell's Monument
18.3 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
19.3 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
20.2 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Dyce Standing Stones
22.0 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Stone 45
22.2 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Queen Victoria Statue
23.3 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Edward VIII Post Box
23.6 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Workers' Memorial
23.7 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
Rosemount Market
24.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
24.1 km
A polished pink granite obelisk in Duthie Park honoring Sir James McGrigor, father of modern military medicine and a key figure in Aberdeen’s history.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
24.4 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
24.5 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bridge of Feugh
2.4 km
A historic stone bridge over the Water of Feugh, offering front-row views of the dramatic Falls of Feugh and the famous salmon leap in Royal Deeside.
Crathes Castle
2.9 km
Explore a magnificent 16th-century Scottish castle and its enchanting gardens, blending history, nature, and family fun near Banchory.
Milton of Crathes
3.8 km
A historic riverside courtyard blending Scottish heritage, independent shops, art, and family-friendly outdoor activities near Crathes Castle.
Drum Castle - Garden & Estate
9.5 km
Explore 700 years of Scottish history, stunning gardens, and ancient oak woodlands at Drum Castle, a timeless estate near Banchory.
The Mains of Drum
10.4 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
Cullerlie Stone Circle
10.4 km
Explore the rare Bronze Age Cullerlie Stone Circle, a unique cremation site nestled in Aberdeenshire’s tranquil valley landscape.
Kincardine
10.8 km
Experience Victorian grandeur and serene Scottish landscapes at Kincardine Castle, a majestic private estate in Royal Deeside.
Kincardine O'Neil Old Parish Church
11.6 km
Explore the evocative 14th-century ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Old Parish Church and its medieval hospital, a window into Scotland’s rich spiritual and charitable past.
The Old Smiddy
11.7 km
Step into The Old Smiddy, a historic blacksmith’s workshop turned treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in scenic Kincardine O'Neil.
Peterculter Golf Club
13.5 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
Peel of Lumphanan
14.4 km
Explore the evocative 13th-century Peel of Lumphanan, a rare earthwork castle with historic ties to King Macbeth and Scottish medieval heritage.
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
15.2 km
Explore one of Scotland’s grandest tower houses with secret staircases, vibrant gardens, and scenic woodland trails in Aberdeenshire.
The Den & The Glen
15.5 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Barney Sculpture
15.6 km
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
Foggieton
17.5 km
A serene woodland retreat near Aberdeen with historic beech trees, native forests, and family-friendly trails through nature’s quiet beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway
0.7 km
A family-owned haven in Aberdeenshire serving simple, seasonal Scottish cuisine with a popular fresh fish takeaway.
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
1.3 km
A charming family-run pub and restaurant in Banchory offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality in a cosy, welcoming setting.
Banchory Lodge Hotel
2.0 km
A charming 4-star riverside hotel in Royal Deeside offering comfort, local cuisine, and scenic Scottish landscapes.
Restaurant at The Lodge
2.0 km
Elegant riverside dining at Banchory Lodge Hotel, blending local flavors with historic Scottish charm and scenic Dee River views.
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant
2.4 km
Experience award-winning Scottish cuisine with stunning waterfall views on Royal Deeside’s scenic River Feugh.
The Garlogie Inn
11.3 km
Discover family-friendly dining at The Garlogie Inn in Westhill, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in a cozy pub setting.
Borsalino
13.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
The Himalayas Restaurant
13.7 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Ploughman
14.3 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
Shepherds Rest - Pub & Grill
15.6 km
A welcoming Westhill pub where rustic charm meets expert flame-grilled cooking in a family-friendly setting.
Luigi's
16.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy bar vibes at Luigi's, Westhill’s beloved spot for traditional pasta, pizza, and desserts.
The Bieldside Inn
18.2 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
The Brae Cafe
18.7 km
A charming traditional Scottish café in Auchenblae offering homemade bakes, hearty meals, and warm hospitality in Aberdeenshire’s scenic countryside.
Blairs Restaurant
19.3 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic country estate near Aberdeen, blending fresh local flavors with elegant ambiance.
The Bay Fish & Chips
20.2 km
Freshly battered fish and hearty chips served with seaside charm in Stonehaven’s beloved coastal eatery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hush Living
2.1 km
Discover unique homeware and gifts in the charming independent boutique of Hush Living, nestled in the heart of Banchory.
Copper & Grey
2.1 km
Discover unique gifts and colorful treasures at Copper & Grey, Banchory’s beloved family-run boutique on High Street.
Hidden Scotland Shop
3.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and handmade treasures in a charming, character-filled shop nestled in Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
Treehouse
8.9 km
Discover unique gifts, home furnishings, and a cozy café experience in the charming Treehouse of Midmar near Inverurie.
Deeside Antiques Emporium
11.4 km
Discover timeless antiques and rich heritage in the heart of Kincardine O'Neil, the oldest village in Aberdeenshire.
Treasures
11.7 km
Discover exquisite natural stones and handcrafted jewellery in the charming village of Kincardine O'Neil at Treasures rock shop.
The Steeple Shop
18.4 km
Discover local essentials and delightful treats at The Steeple Shop, your friendly convenience store in Drumlithie near Stonehaven.
Premier
18.4 km
Explore the charm of Drumlithie with a visit to Premier Convenience Store, your friendly local shop for all essentials and Scottish treats.
Geek Bothy Ltd
18.8 km
Award-winning gift shop celebrating local makers, quirky treasures, and creative community in rural Aberdeenshire.
Castleton Farm
19.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm near Laurencekirk.
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
19.7 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
My Beautiful Caravan
20.3 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treasures in Stonehaven’s beloved boutique, My Beautiful Caravan.
Gifted
21.8 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Joli Gifts
22.0 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
Made by Mums with Love
23.2 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black's Bar
13.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
13.5 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
Drumlithie Inn
18.4 km
A cozy, lively pub in Drumlithie offering hearty homemade food, warm hospitality, and vibrant entertainment in a beautifully updated setting.
Station Hotel
19.4 km
A charming Stonehaven hotel blending traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, great food, and a welcoming bar.
Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
20.1 km
A welcoming Scottish pub with a scenic beer garden and vibrant community spirit at Stonehaven Recreation Grounds.
Number 44 Hotel & Bar
20.3 km
Cozy coastal hotel and vibrant bar in Stonehaven offering sea views, delicious food, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Quoiters Cafe Bar
20.8 km
A friendly and lively bar in Newtonhill offering local ales, weekly bingo nights, and a cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Marine Hotel
20.8 km
Experience coastal elegance and warm Scottish hospitality with stunning harbour views at Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel.
Six°North
20.8 km
Lively waterfront pub at The Marine Hotel offering traditional Scottish fare and stunning Stonehaven Harbour views.
The Paddock Bar
21.0 km
A family-friendly pub and lounge in Portlethen offering great homemade food, extensive drinks, live sports, and weekend entertainment.
The Distilling House
22.6 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
The Staging Post
22.7 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Croft & Cairns
22.9 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
Brig O Dee Bar
23.0 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Murdos Bar
23.2 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
24.1 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
491 Union Street
24.2 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
Venga
24.4 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
24.4 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
Number 7 Club
24.7 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
24.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
The Underground Klub
24.8 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
24.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
24.8 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Exodus
24.9 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
25.1 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
The Tunnels
25.1 km
Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
39.8 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Royal Night Club
52.9 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
The Attic Club
53.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kirriemuir at The Attic Club, where cozy ambiance meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly