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In 2019, Neale and Janet McQuistin decided to take a bold step by opening up their farm to visitors. Kitchen Coos & Ewes was born out of a desire to share their passion for farming and their love of Highland cows with the world. What began as an idea soon turned into a thriving farm tourism business, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
However, just as the business was starting to take off, the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rather than sit back and wait, Neale and Janet embraced the challenge. Neale began live streaming from the calving field on Facebook, bringing the farm experience directly to people’s homes, while Janet shared beautiful photos and stories on Instagram. This innovative approach helped them build an online community of followers who fell in love with the McQuistins’ Highland cows and the picturesque farm life they showcased.

At Kitchen Coos & Ewes, the story of farming is more than just a business—it’s a family tradition that stretches back over 400 years.
Nestled in the beautiful Luce Valley in southwest Scotland, Neale and Janet carry on a proud legacy of farming, passed down through generations. Their deep connection to the land and their commitment to sustainable farming are at the heart of everything they do, and it’s this history that makes a visit to Kitchen Coos & Ewes so much more than just a farm tour.

For Neale and Janet McQuistin, farming isn’t just a job—it’s in their blood. Janet’s family has been farming in the Luce Valley for an astonishing 11 generations, dating back over four centuries. Meanwhile, Neale’s farming roots extend across seven generations, making them a powerhouse of agricultural knowledge and experience. Together, they form an incredible farming partnership that has seen their land flourish and thrive, even in the face of challenges.

This remarkable heritage means that the McQuistins have an unrivalled understanding of the land they farm. Every inch of the farm is steeped in history, from the dry-stone walls that have stood for hundreds of years to the fields that have fed countless generations of livestock. When you visit Kitchen Coos & Ewes, you’re not just stepping onto a working farm—you’re stepping into a living piece of Scottish history.

The McQuistins’ Success with Livestock
Their long history with farming is evident in their success, particularly with their award-winning Scotch Mule and record-breaking Beltex sheep. Over the years, the McQuistins have built a reputation for excellence, not just locally but across the farming community. They have won prestigious awards, including three first-prize rosettes for their Scotch Mule ewe lambs at the Royal Highland Show, one of Scotland’s most celebrated agricultural events.
Their Beltex sheep have also set records, solidifying the McQuistins’ place among Scotland’s leading livestock breeders. This success is a testament to their dedication, expertise, and the centuries-old knowledge that has been passed down through their family.

Bringing 400 Years of Farming to Visitors
Today, Kitchen Coos & Ewes is much more than just a place to see Highland cows and Beltex sheep—it’s a living testament to 400 years of farming tradition. Visitors can experience this legacy first-hand through farm safaris. From the history of the farm to the sustainable practices they use to care for their animals and the environment, every tour is filled with fascinating insights into Scottish farming.

What sets Kitchen Coos & Ewes apart is the personal touch – you’re being welcomed into the McQuistins’ world. Neale and Janet’s combined 112 years of farming experience shine through in every aspect of the farm, making each visit a truly unique and memorable experience.

Looking to the Future
Despite their deep connection to the past, the McQuistins are always looking to the future. Their focus on sustainable farming practices ensures that the land will continue to thrive for generations to come. From the use of Highland cows to promote biodiversity to the careful management of their Beltex flock, they are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Luce Valley while continuing their family’s farming legacy.

The McQuistins’ story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep love for the land they farm. It’s a story that continues to evolve, and one that visitors to Kitchen Coos & Ewes are invited to be a part of. So whether you’re coming to meet the Highland cows, explore the farm, or learn about the history of this remarkable family, a visit to Kitchen Coos & Ewes is an unforgettable experience.