We kicked off the 2026 Glasgow Kiltwalk weekend knowing it would be a record-breaker, but we didn’t quite understand how much. Team Ardgowan Hospice had a record number of walkers, 231 to be exact, a fantastic increase on 2025’s 157 walkers. The weekend started under the sunshine in Clydebank before the walkers made their way to Balloch, followed by another spectacular walk on Sunday.

Over the weekend, Team Ardgowan Hospice walked a total of 3,567.2 miles, raising an incredible £53,000 to help us continue providing vital care and support to patients and their families facing life-limiting illnesses.

One of those walkers was Heather Simpson, a local supporter who has walked the Kiltwalk year after year in aid of Ardgowan Hospice; however, what made this year different was her ‘questionable decision-making’, which led her to walk 37.3 miles over 48 hours. Heather was Ardgowan Hospice’s first finisher for Saturday’s 14.6 mile Big Stroll before heading back for a night’s rest ahead of her next challenge, taking on the 22.7 mile Mighty Stride on Sunday. Heather’s incredible effort has raised over £2000.

Team Maria’s Minions were walking in memory of Maria’s Auntie Roselin and Uncle Alex, who were both supported by the hospice.  After a few days of walking recovery, we caught up with Maria to ask how the day went. Here’s what she said: “What an incredible day spent with my boys! This marks my third Kiltwalk, and each time, I cross the finish line with a profound sense of accomplishment. Yet, this particular Kiltwalk exceeded all expectations, as my charity, Ardgowan Hospice, received a generous £10,000 from Arnold Clark. I was genuinely at a loss for words and deeply moved. I’ve even shed a few more tears, as this means the world to me. A heartfelt thank you to all the event organisers and to Sir Tom Hunter for making me feel truly valued.” Maria’s Minions have raised £11,300, an outstanding effort.

We are so grateful for the continual support of local schools and businesses during this challenge. On Saturday, staff from Cloch Housing Association completed the Big Stroll alongside the McDermotts from Plaster Perfect and 8 members of teaching staff from Craigmarloch School. We also had 8 members of the teaching staff from St Francis Primary take on the Mighty Stride on the Sunday, alongside Right Way Credit Union, Team KSF (Kerri Stintson Fitness) and Team Ross Moran, who had an incredible 32 walkers.

We asked Lauren, one of our Clinical Nurse Specialists, about the challenge and here is what she said, “I did the Mighty Stride with my husband Gavin. We both love walking but have never taken on as far a distance before. Despite the challenge (especially the last two miles!!), we were both surprised how much we enjoyed it. We enjoyed some quality time together, and both commented on how calm and quiet the walk was. Everyone walking was friendly and respectful, and it was humbling to see everyone come together to support different charities. As a CNS in the IPU, I see firsthand how donations are vital to keep the hospice running. In the difficult moments, it helped to remember what the money raised would do to help our patients and families. My feet are in bits now, but it was 100% worth it, roll on next year to do it all again!! “.

Another one of our staff members to take part was Laura, a Children and Young Persons Support Worker in our Wellbeing team. As an avid walker, we knew Laura wouldn’t hesitate to take on the challenge again this year. When we caught up with her, here’s what she had to say: “This was my 7th year of doing the Glasgow Kiltwalk, all 23 miles of it!  It’s such a well-organised event with a brilliant atmosphere throughout (and a beer tent at the end for a well deserved celebratory refreshment!).  Being able to walk as part of the Ardgowan Hospice team makes it even more special to me.  Working in Ardgowan, I see firsthand what our fundraising efforts can do to allow us to continue to provide the care needed to all our patients and families across Inverclyde.  It’s a privilege to be part of the Ardgowan Hospice Kiltwalk Team, and I’d encourage anyone who is able to get signed up for Kiltwalk 2027. I’ll definitely be there.”

Do you want to get involved?

There is still time to sign up for Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh in aid of Ardgowan Hospice. Find out more here: https://www.thekiltwalk.co.uk/events

If you would like to find out more about how you can support Ardgowan Hospice, please get in touch with our Fundraising Team by email: fundraising@ardgowanhospice.org, or call on 0141 2511213.