Cairngorms Reindeer Herd

High on the slopes of the Cairngorms lives Britain's only herd of reindeer, a remarkable presence in the Scottish Highlands that began with a Swedish herder's dream in 1952. Mikel Utsi believed the Cairngorms' subarctic climate and lichen-rich slopes could once again support reindeer, which had been native to Scotland until their extinction around 800 years ago. He was right, and today around 150 reindeer roam freely across 10,000 acres of mountain terrain.

Visiting the Cairngorms Reindeer Herd is unlike any other wildlife encounter in Britain. Twice daily in summer (once in winter), guides lead small groups up onto the mountainside to meet the herd where they're grazing. These are not distant animals viewed through binoculars; they are gentle, curious creatures who will eat from your hand and pose patiently for photographs. Each reindeer has a name and a distinct personality, and the guides know every one of them intimately.

The reindeer are perfectly adapted to their Cairngorm home. Their thick coats insulate them against the harshest Highland winters, their broad hooves act like snowshoes, and they thrive on the lichen and vegetation of the high plateau. The herd plays an important role in educating visitors about Arctic ecology and wildlife conservation, and at Christmas, selected reindeer travel across Britain to spread festive magic. A visit here offers a genuine connection with these remarkable animals in one of Europe's last great wildernesses.