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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.

4.8

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
  • Environment icon 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.
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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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Cold Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Snow

Unlock the Best of Aberdeenshire Highland Beef

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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.

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