Highland cows have become a dominant motif across UK high-street homeware, with retailers from Next to Dunelm stocking everything from toasters to Christmas trees adorned with the shaggy animals. Dunelm's website alone returns 205 results for 'Highland cow', while Next has created a dedicated character, Hamish, with his own section on the website. Matalan, George at Asda, and John Lewis also offer dozens of Highland cow items.
Why the sudden obsession?
Interiors experts suggest the trend is part of a long history of animal motifs in design. Lia Gold, winner of Interior Design Masters, and fellow designer Jonni Knight note that dachshunds were popular in 2019, with leopards, dolphins, bees, sheep, foxes, and owls all having had their moments. Now it's the Highland cow's turn.
'We talk a lot about why certain interior trends take off on our podcast,' the pair told Metro. 'Sometimes it's nostalgia, sometimes it's social media, and sometimes it's simply that a trend makes a home feel warmer or more characterful. The Highland cow phenomenon is a perfect example of that.'
The creatures also tap into the cottagecore aesthetic, which romanticises rural living, and are traditionally seen as symbols of resilience, able to survive Scotland's rugged terrain. Their appearance in folktales and classic literature adds to their appeal, as does their docile, fluffy nature.
From cuddly toys to real-life encounters
For those wanting more than a biscuit tin, farms and sanctuaries across the UK offer cow cuddling sessions, Highland cow safaris in Scotland, and even Highland cow yoga classes. Jen Howard-Coombes, director of Almond Valley Heritage Centre in Livingston Village, Scotland, attributes the appeal to the animal's 'cartoon-esque' appearance.
'The striking horns, enormous tongues, shaggy coats and quirky cowlick fringes give them a character that feels larger than life,' she said. 'Their gentle and curious nature only adds to the appeal. They've somehow managed that rare feat of becoming incredibly familiar and unfamiliar.'
Stuart Hartley, owner of Hartley's Huts in Lancashire, a luxury glamping retreat, has seen the trend boost his business. He has seven Highland cows on his farm and noted that since advertising them, guest interactions have increased. 'The cows have become so much more popular in the last two years, and we're getting return visitors now too. One couple has visited four times just for the cows,' he said.
Highland cow fatigue sets in
Not everyone is enamoured. Some shoppers have expressed 'Highland cow fatigue' on social media, with one TikTok user, Caroline Daniels, saying: 'I love Highland cow stuff but now it's been over done. I've got Highland cow fatigue. It's been ruined!' Others have called the trend 'insanity' and 'scary'.
Despite the backlash, demand remains strong, particularly at Next. An anonymous employee claimed on social media that items from the Hamish range sell every day. 'I work in Next Home. At least once an hour someone buys a Highland cow thing,' they said.
Experts advise caution around real Highland cows, which are strong animals with sharp horns and can be protective, especially with calves. They recommend keeping a safe distance and not touching or feeding them without permission.
