Results from the Scottish Agricultural Census: June 2023

Figure 1: Map of Scotland showing main farming types in each area

This map shows the main farming types found in each area. Large areas of Scotland have hilly or rocky land suitable for livestock, but limited growing conditions. These areas are shown in light green on the map. The areas in black have better soil and can support crops usually grown for animal feed. Dark green areas can support vegetables, fruit and cereal farming for human consumption.

The total Scottish agricultural area in 2023 was 5.33 million hectares, 69 per cent of Scotland’s total land. However, it should be noted that large areas of agricultural land are only lightly farmed. For example, hilly or mountainous areas are mostly used for rough grazing. The total Scottish agricultural area excludes common grazing land.