Fathers' Day Hike 2026: Walk, Talk, Connect
Join The Mark Williams Foundation in the Pentland Hills this Father's Day
If you're facing Father's Day without your children this year, you don't have to spend the day alone. This Father's Day, The Mark Williams Foundation is inviting fathers from across Scotland to join us for a relaxed and inclusive walk through the beautiful Pentland Hills.
Taking place on Sunday 21 June, our Fathers' Day Hike has been created specifically to support fathers who may be spending Father's Day without their children. For many dads, Father's Day is a celebration spent with family.
Rather than spending the day alone, we want fathers to know they have somewhere to go, people to connect with, and a supportive community around them.
However, for fathers who are separated from their children, navigating family court processes, experiencing relationship breakdown, or facing circumstances that mean they cannot be with their children, the day can be incredibly difficult.
Why are we doing this?
Date: Sunday 21 June
Meeting Time: 10:45am
Walk Starts: 11:00am
Meeting Point: Threipmuir Reservoir Car Park, Pentland Hills Regional Park
Route: Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir Circular Walk
Distance: Approximately 4.25km / 2.75 miles
Suitable For: Most fitness levels and walking abilities
After the Walk: Join us for food, refreshments and the opportunity to continue conversations and make new connections with fellow fathers.
At The Mark Williams Foundation, we work with fathers from all walks of life.
Many of the fathers we support are navigating separation from their children.
Some are dealing with family court proceedings.
Some are adjusting to changes in family circumstances that mean they have limited or no contact with their children.
For these fathers, occasions such as Father’s Day can be particularly painful and isolating.
This event is not intended to take fathers away from their families. We fully recognise that many dads will be spending Father’s Day with their children and loved ones, and we encourage that wherever possible.
Instead, this hike has been organised to provide support for those fathers who may otherwise be facing the day alone.
What we hear time and time again is that fathers often struggle to find spaces where they can connect with others, have honest conversations and build supportive friendships.
Our Fathers’ Day Hike isn’t about counselling.
It isn’t about labels.
It isn’t about telling people they have a problem.
It’s simply about creating an environment where fathers can spend time together, share experiences, and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors.
Because sometimes the most powerful support starts with a conversation.
What to Expect
- A welcoming environment for fathers of all ages and backgrounds
- A scenic walk through the Pentland Hills
- Opportunities to meet other dads and share experiences
- A relaxed and informal atmosphere
- Support from volunteers and members of The Mark Williams Foundation team
- Food, refreshments and socialising after the walk
- The opportunity to spend Father’s Day surrounded by a supportive community of fellow fathers
Whether you’re a father who is unable to see your children this Father’s Day, a dad navigating family challenges, or simply someone looking for connection and support, you are welcome.
Not because people are in crisis, but because strong social connections, meaningful friendships and supportive communities help us all to navigate life’s challenges.
The Bigger Picture
The Bigger Picture
While this event is focused on positivity, community and connection, it also forms part of our wider Father Support Initiative.
Across Scotland, men continue to face significant mental health challenges. Around three quarters of all suicides in Scotland are male, and hundreds of Scottish men lose their lives to suicide every year.
Behind those statistics are fathers, sons, brothers, partners and friends.
For fathers who are separated from their children or experiencing family difficulties, special occasions such as Father’s Day can intensify feelings of loneliness, loss and isolation.
- The reality is that many men still find it difficult to ask for help or speak openly about how they are feeling.
- That is why preventative support matters.
- That is why community matters.
- And that is why bringing fathers together matters.
Walk With Us
Fatherhood can be one of life’s greatest privileges, but it can also be challenging, demanding and, at times, lonely.
For some fathers, Father’s Day is a joyful celebration with their children.
For others, it can be one of the hardest days of the year.
If you are facing Father’s Day without your children, please know that you do not have to spend the day alone.
Join us for a walk, a conversation, and the chance to connect with other fathers who understand the journey.
No pressure. No expectations. Just good company, fresh air and a reminder that you don’t have to walk alone.
We look forward to welcoming you.