Pros & cons
PROS
- Interactive sheepdog demos with chances to shear, bottle‑feed and cuddle animals
- Glorious Highland farm setting that’s incredibly photogenic
CONS
- Entirely outdoors—ground can be muddy and weather can make or break it
- Rural location with limited public transport and set demo times
Overview
Leault Farm is the home of the famed working sheepdog demonstrations near Kincraig. This is not a slick tourist show—it’s a real Highland farm sharing how Border Collies and a skilled shepherd work the hills. Expect an engaging, down‑to‑earth experience that many travelers call a highlight of their trip.
What You’ll See
- Teams of sharp, responsive collies herding sheep (and sometimes ducks) to precise voice and whistle commands.
- A personable shepherd leading the show, explaining training and techniques with humor and clarity.
- Hands‑on moments: try a bit of shearing, bottle‑feed a lamb, and meet puppies; a friendly calf or Highland cow may make an appearance.
- Classic Highland scenery: rolling pasture, woodlands and big mountain backdrops made for photos.
Who It’s For
- Animal lovers, families and photographers who want something uniquely Scottish.
- Anyone curious about traditional Highland shepherding and the bond between handler and dog.
Know Before You Go
- Amenities are basic—don’t count on food or restrooms on site; bring water and snacks.
- Footing can be uneven and muddy; sturdy shoes and weatherproof layers are essential.
- It’s a working farm with set demo times; public transport is limited, so driving is easiest.
- Demos are relaxed but start on time; arrive early for a good vantage point.
How Long It Takes
A typical visit runs about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the season and format of the demonstration.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer usually sees scheduled group demos on set days/times; winter tends to be by appointment. Always confirm ahead.
- Pick a dry or calm day if you can—the experience is fully outdoors.
- Arrive a bit early on busy days for the best views and photos.
Wildlife
The spotlight is on the farm animals—Border Collies, sheep, lambs, and sometimes calves/Highland cattle. You may notice local birds around the pastures, but this stop is mainly about the working dogs and livestock.
Where it is
57.1277, -3.9458Leault Farm
Tips for Leault Farm
- 01Call or email ahead to confirm demo times; winter is often by appointment.
- 02Bring cash, as on-site payment can be cash-only depending on the season.
- 03Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and layers—the show is entirely outdoors.
- 04Arrive 10–15 minutes early for the best viewing spot and photos.
- 05Plan snacks and water; there’s no confirmed food or restroom on site.
Amenities
Near Leault Farm
All places →All trails →
0.9 mi awayLoch InshSpeyside loch with a lively watersports hub and rich birdlifeRestroom · Parking
1.2 mi awayLoch Insh Watersports CentreDo-it-all lochside hub for watersports, lessons, and year-round playParking · Restroom
1.5 mi awayHighland Wildlife ParkDrive-through Highlands safari with polar bears and snow leopardsRestroom · Exhibit
1.8 mi awayFrank Bruce Sculpture TrailShort, reflective art-in-nature loop by the River FeshieEasy · 1 mi · 45 min
1.8 mi awayFeshiebridge Riverside PathEasy riverside loop with sculptures and Caledonian pinewoods.Easy · 1 mi · 45 min
2.3 mi awayUath Lochans TrailSerene lochans loop with pinewoods and an optional crag-top viewEasy · 1.5 mi · 1 hr
2.3 mi awayUath Lochans Eagle's View TrailShort pinewoods loop to a big-view perch over mirror-calm lochansEasy · 2.5 mi · 2 hr
2.6 mi awayUath Lochans Picnic AreaTranquil lochside picnic spot with short trails and wildlifeTrailhead · Parking
