Cattle breed profile
English Longhorn
Origin : United Kingdom — England, especially the Midlands and northern England
How can this breed be identified?
The English Longhorn is a large cattle breed, easily recognised by its long curved horns. Their orientation varies between animals: they may spread out from the sides of the head, then curve forward, downward or inward.
The coat is often red, roan, brindle or pied, with a lot of white. Many animals show a white line along the back, known as a finch back, as well as white markings on the underside, tail, head or hindquarters.
Overall, the English Longhorn is a heavy beef-type British breed, with a more solid and massive appearance than the Texas Longhorn.
Overview, origin and history
The English Longhorn is an old English cattle breed. It is historically associated with northern England, especially Yorkshire, and later became strongly established in the Midlands through the breeding work of Robert Bakewell in the eighteenth century.
The breed played an important role in the history of British cattle breeding before being gradually replaced by more specialised breeds, especially the Shorthorn. Today, it is mainly kept as a beef and heritage breed in the United Kingdom.
Despite its name, it should not be confused with the Texas Longhorn, which is a different American breed.
Identification hint
Look for a large British beef breed with long curved horns and often a white line along the back.
Profile validations
Longhorn Cattle Society
Approved photographs · Approved description