Farming

Historically, the land on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula has been farmed for generations, although much less intensely now than it was back then. It once had to support many thousands of people who managed to scratch a living from the wet rocky soils and surrounding seas.

Today, the 10,000 hectares of uncompromisingly rugged wilderness that we call home is host to a wide range of livestock. Our Estates currently run 2,500 breeding sheep including Blackface, Cheviot and Swaledale cross ewes. We also manage over 400 cattle; Blue Greys, Simental Cross and Suckler calves. Both cattle and sheep enjoy their summer holidays here on Ardnamurchan before the calves and lambs move up to our farm on the Black Isle near Inverness.

Ardnamurchan is a working estate meaning that animals are free to roam on the road where you’ll sometimes find them being driven to a different pasture by one of our staff – your patience when sharing it with them is appreciated. If you see animals coming toward you stop and make sure all dogs are inside the vehicle (with the windows up). If you’re out walking, again, please be wary of livestock. They’re used to walkers sharing the hillsides but please be aware of cows and their calves and give them a wide berth – especially if you have a dog with you. Please keep it on a short leash when nearby.

A few other rules of thumb that we ask visitors to follow when visiting Ardnamurchan are; please shut all gates properly when passing through, please use the largest straining post when climbing a fence if you have to and please use marked parking spots (not passing places, etc). As per the rest of Scotland the Outdoor Access Code applies, you can find out about your rights and responsibilities here.