More than 125 taxis, 300 children and one unforgettable day: Glasgow’s famous Troon outing gets green light on revised route
- Perry Richardson
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
The Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund has confirmed a revised route for its 79th annual trip to Troon as preparations enter their final week ahead of one of Scotland’s most recognised community events.
More than 125 decorated taxis are set to transport around 300 children with additional support needs from schools across Glasgow to the Ayrshire coast on Wednesday, continuing a tradition that has become a fixture of the Scottish summer calendar.
A seven-day countdown officially began when pupils from Hazelwood Primary School met volunteer drivers and organisers who will donate their time to deliver the outing. The event relies on the support of more than 100 taxi drivers, alongside dozens of additional volunteers and sponsors who help make the day possible.
This year’s convoy will leave Glasgow using an alternative route after disruption caused by the Union Street fire earlier this year and ongoing redevelopment works around George Square. Organisers confirmed that discussions with local authorities and Police Scotland have resulted in a new departure route designed to minimise disruption while maintaining the smooth operation of the event.
City centre restrictions force convoy route change ahead of much-loved outing for more than 300 children with additional support needs
Stephen Lalley, from the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund, said: “This year, the taxis will travel along Sauchiehall Street towards Charing Cross before turning right on to Newton Street and joining the motorway to Troon. Due to the restrictions currently in place within Glasgow city centre, this route has been identified as the most practical and efficient option for the outing.
“We hope that these measures will be temporary and that, next year, we will be able to return to travelling through the city centre as part of the traditional route.”
Lalley also acknowledged the role of public agencies in helping deliver the revised arrangements. He said: “Everyone at the Glasgow Taxi Outing Fund would like to thank Glasgow City Council and Police Scotland for their support and assistance in providing this alternative route out of Glasgow, ensuring all the children can once more enjoy this special day which produces a lifetime of memories.”
The annual outing remains one of the largest charity-led taxi convoys in the UK. For many of the children involved, the event provides a rare opportunity to enjoy a fully supported day trip to the seaside, complete with entertainment, music, beach activities and community celebrations in Troon.
The scale of the operation highlights the continuing role of the taxi trade in supporting local communities beyond passenger transport. Drivers volunteer both their vehicles and their time, while fundraising efforts throughout the year help cover the costs of organising the event.
Support from businesses and organisations remains critical to the outing’s success. Key supporters this year include Glasgow Taxis Ltd, Cab Direct, Celtic FC Foundation, The Moulsdale Foundation, Butchershop Bar and Grill, and Girvans Bar Troon.
Residents wishing to watch the convoy are being encouraged to gather along Kelvin Way between 10.30am and 11am before the taxis continue along Sauchiehall Street and towards Charing Cross on their journey to Troon. Hundreds of spectators are again expected to line the route and welcome the children on what remains one of Scotland’s most enduring charitable traditions.
