In the Year of the Horse saddle up for an exclusive Kelpies Experience
The thrilling Kelpies Experiences is back for 2026! We are looking for adventurous fundraisers to take on the exhilarating challenge and raise funds to help Age Scotland support older people.
The Kelpies Experience proved to be the hottest event ticket for fundraisers after its debut in 2025, perhaps because it is much more than just an abseil – it truly is an experience.
From ascending the aerial course and climbing into the horse’s mouth to enjoy spectacular views, to the adrenaline-filled flight down, the Kelpies Experience is a unique adventure wrapped up in Scotland’s rich history. Fully guided and completely safe, it is also a whole lot of fun!
Last year Network Rail team members Angela and Sameena took part and were happy to share their fundraising experience.
Q: What inspired you to sign up for the Kelpies Experience in 2025?
A: “As I started to look into the incredible work Age Scotland do, it genuinely pulled at my heartstrings. The thought of loneliness terrifies me. I’m fortunate to have amazing family and friends around me, but not everyone has that luxury. I’m a real people person, and the thought of anyone, whether that’s someone else’s loved one or my own family or friends facing loneliness and isolation, is just so sad. It really got to me.
“Before learning more about the charity, I was quite oblivious to how tough things can be for some older people. Realising how significant loneliness can be, and knowing it doesn’t have to be that way, made me want to play even a small part in helping change that. Knowing that raising funds could help someone receive a friendly call, a bit of support, or simply feel less alone, meant a lot. That was my biggest motivation.
“The Kelpies Abseil sounded like such a fun and bold challenge, especially when I’m not keen on heights! So, being able to combine doing something meaningful for a brilliant cause while taking on an unforgettable experience made it a complete no-brainer.
“The courage - and buzz! - I felt stepping off the edge, especially with donations rolling in, is something I won’t forget.”
Q: What advice would you give to others considering taking part in the Kelpies Experience for 2026?
A: “My advice would be simple… just do it! Don’t overthink it; go for it and take the plunge. You’ve seriously nothing to lose, other than the regret of wondering why you didn’t do it.
“It’s an unforgettable experience, and when you combine that adrenaline rush with raising funds for an incredible cause, it makes it even more worthwhile. You’ll push yourself, you’ll feel amazing for doing it, and most importantly, you’ll know you’ve helped make a real difference. We often spend far too much time overthinking, sometimes the best things happen when you stop thinking and just step off the edge!”
Sameena
Q: Did anything surprise you about the Kelpies Experience?
A: “I loved the enthusiasm and support received from the Age Scotland staff during the events; it gave me the push I needed and made me even more determined. I honestly did not think I would raise donations the second time around given the challenges were close together, however the Age Scotland staff understood my hesitations and offered great hints and tips. But to my surprise, donations came rolling in which was amazing and it was all going to a great cause.
“Given I pushed through fear barriers of heights and walking over hot coals, my next challenge is the Discovery Mast Climb. Why not eh?”
Q: What made you decide to fundraise for Age Scotland not once, but twice? First, at the Kelpies Experience and then again at the Firewalk?
A: “I chose to fundraise for Age Scotland twice because the cause genuinely means something to me. I’ve seen how loneliness and isolation can affect older people, and it made me realise how important organisations like Age Scotland are in giving people connection, support, and dignity.
“After doing the Kelpies Experience, I felt a real sense of purpose in that I was giving something back. I knew the money was going somewhere that truly mattered. When the opportunity came up to take part in the Firewalk, it didn’t feel like ‘doing another event’. It felt like continuing something I’d started — a commitment to help make life a little brighter for older people across Scotland.”
Feeling inspired? Sign up to the Kelpies Experience today or get involved with one of our other events or challenges.
If you are registering from a company, you can register your interest here Age Scotland 2026 Events Registration – Fill in form
