The Cairngorm Reindeer

Free roaming reindeer in the Highlands of Scotland

Reindeer on hills

History of the Cairngorm reindeer

Reindeer lived naturally in Scotland until around the 12th century, when they were thought to have become extinct in Scotland due to hunting. In 1952, reindeer were re-introduced to Scotland by a Swedish couple, Mikel Utsi and Dr. Ethel Lindgren. The first reindeer were brought by boat to the Cairngorms mountain range, an area of Scotland that has low temperatures and regular snowfall, making it an ideal climate for reindeer to thrive. Since 1952, due to breeding and some more reindeer being taken over from Sweden, the Cairngorm reindeer have grown in number to over 150 currently. The reindeer now have over 7000 acres in which to roam, allowing them a natural environment while being monitored.

Meet the reindeer

Daily hill trips are run by the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre to allow visitors to meet the reindeer. These hill trips involve a 30 minute guided walk up to the reindeer, and when amongst the reindeer visitors are allowed to pet and hand feed the reindeer. For visitors who may be unable to make the hill trip, some reindeer are kept in paddocks at the visitor centre. In December, some of the tame male reindeer can be met at events around Scotland, where they help pull Santa's sleigh.
Visitors coming for the hill trip or paddock visit will also have access to the exhibition centre, with craft activities for children and information about reindeer and the Cairngorm herd, from the beginnings to the present day.

For more information or to book a visit to the reindeer, click here.