Robert Marshall completes his 100th walk – championing the future of the West Highland Way.
Robert Marshall made history recently by becoming the first person to complete the full 96-mile West Highland Way 100 times. What began as a personal challenge over 30 years ago has evolved into a lifelong passion.
Robert first attempted the 96-mile route in 1993, abandoning the walk at Rowardennan on the first day due to heavy gear and unsuitable footwear. Just weeks later, he returned, determined to succeed, and completed the route in three days with only trainers and a lighter pack. Since then, the West Highland Way has become his “keep fit walk,” keeping him healthy both physically and mentally.
Landmark achievement
Over the years, Robert has walked the trail in all seasons, camping, bivvying, and sometimes using baggage transfer services. He has carried on despite health challenges, including two heart operations in 2017 and 2023. Now retired, he has been walking the route almost every month, determined to reach his 100th journey before his 70th birthday in November 2025. For his 100th walk, Robert was joined by his six children, Kirsty, 46, David, 43, Jennifer, 40, Yvonne, 40, Ciaran, 25 and Ross, 22, by his side. “I’ve had so many special moments on my walks. No two days or journeys are ever the same, but walking this time with all the family can’t be beaten. I’m pleased that this walk has helped raise attention to the need for all of us to support the maintenance along the 96 miles,” he said.
This landmark achievement is not just a personal triumph – it is also a fundraising mission. Robert has already raised thousands of pounds for the West Highland Way Trust, the new charity dedicated to protecting and maintaining the trail. Climate change and increasing visitor numbers are placing growing pressure on the route, making ongoing investment essential to keep it safe and accessible. Funds raised will support vital work, including drainage, signage, bridges, gates, vegetation management, and environmental care.
Scotland’s most loved trail
Carol Matthews, a trustee of the new West Highland Way Trust, joined the crowd at Fort William to cheer Robert and his family across the finish line. She said: “Robert’s commitment is inspirational. We are so grateful that he has chosen to support the new West Highland Way Trust with this remarkable 100th walk. His efforts will help raise thousands of pounds to safeguard the future of Scotland’s most loved trail.” She added: “The West Highland Way is a global hiking icon, contributing around £20 million a year to Scotland’s rural economy. Its popularity brings huge benefits but also constant wear and tear. The Trust has been set up to fund the essential, often unseen work, renewing signs, maintaining drainage, repairing bridges, that keeps this 96-mile journey safe, sustainable and spectacular for the next generation.”
Opened in 1980, the West Highland Way stretches from Milngavie to Fort William, linking Scotland’s largest city to its highest mountain, via its largest loch. It is one of the UK’s best-loved trails, completed in full by over 45,000 people annually and enjoyed in sections by thousands more. On 6 October 2025, the West Highland Way celebrated its 45th anniversary.
Donations can be made at www.westhighlandwaytrust.org.
Main photo: Robert Marshall at the start of the West Highland Way in Milngavie.
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