Olympic hero Sir Chris Hoy joined philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter to lead out 8,000 heroes at the Edinburgh Kiltwalk in the sunshine, as they raised £1.5 million for 762 charities.
In total, 38,000 Kiltwalkers at events across the country donated £8.5m this year. In 11 years Kiltwalk has now raised an astonishing £66.5m for 4,500 charities: that’s £52.5m from 254,000 Kiltwalkers and £14m from The Hunter Foundation.
Earlier in the year, Sir Tom shared his ambition for Kiltwalk to reach £100 million in the next five years to “be there” for Scotland’s third sector in these times of global and economic uncertainty.
At Holyrood Park on Sunday, September 13, Sir Tom addressed 3,200 Mighty Striders: “Today, Edinburgh, you are 8,000 strong, and you brilliant Kiltwalkers are raising over £1.5 million today for the charities that mean the most to you. The Kiltwalk has quite simply become a Scottish phenomenon. I don’t think it could happen anywhere else in the world.
“There are people all over the length and breadth of Scotland who just need a wee hand up, and good folks like yourselves are willing to come out and give them that help. The Kiltwalk simply connects you with those who need that help.
“Thank you for caring, and thank you for making Scotland this wonderful place.”
Another 3,100 walkers took on the 11-mile Big Stroll from Fisherrow Links at Musselburgh, while 1,700 others enjoyed a 4.5 mile Wee Wander from Victoria Park. With everyone finishing at Murrayfield Stadium.
Sir Tom was joined by Edinburgh-born, six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy, who delivered an inspirational address to Mighty Striders before they set off on their 21-mile journey.
Sir Chris Hoy said: “What a beautiful morning for a walk! So many amazing charities are going to benefit from all the effort you’re putting in. Thank you to everyone who has turned up, and a special thank you to everyone who backed the Tour de 4 and is supporting my cancer charity fundraising efforts.
“There has been a huge amount raised and a load of support through the Kiltwalk, so a big thank you to Tom for including us in that. Good luck, everyone. Keep up the fundraising and enjoy!”
9. Wide view
The start of the Edinburgh Kiltwalk 2026 at Holyrood Park, seen from Arthur's Seat. | Elaine Livingstone
10. High five
Legendary cyclist Sir Chris Hoy was there to support those taking part in this year's Kiltwalk in his hometown. | Elaine Livingstone
11. That's entertainment
Entertainment at the event was provided by local performers, including these two young bagpipers, as well as dance groups, charities and corporate sponsors. | Elaine Livingstone
12. Selfie time
Five pit stops offered a variety of delicious snacks from Kiltwalk’s Official Supermarket partner, Lidl. | Elaine Livingstone