Buccleuch Property is delighted to announce the success of the 18th Buccleuch Property Challenge, which saw a record-breaking 99 teams cross the finish line and raise more than £22,500 for Venture Scotland.
On Friday 11 September 2025, teams from across the UK property industry gathered at the Duke of Buccleuch's Queensberry Estate in Dumfries & Galloway for the highly anticipated annual adventure race. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Estate, the event brought together 297 participants in teams of three to tackle a challenging multi-discipline course designed by BlueSky Experiences.
Covering an average distance of 40km and an elevation gain of up to 1100 metres, competitors took part in mountain biking, running and orienteering, alongside a variety of additional challenges including river tubing, paddleboarding, simulated stalking, fly casting and Highland Games-inspired events.
This year, Buccleuch Property was proud to support charity partner, Venture Scotland, raising both awareness and vital funds for the organisation's life-changing work with young people across Scotland.
Venture Scotland supports young people aged 16 to 30 who are facing complex challenges to improve their mental health and wellbeing through a progressive outdoor personal development programme. By using Scotland's natural environments, both remote and within local communities, participants are encouraged to build confidence, resilience and life skills through activities such as rock climbing, canoeing, gorge walking, residential experiences and one-to-one support.
The programme helps participants establish routine, form positive relationships, spend meaningful time outdoors and develop the tools needed to create lasting change in their lives.
The day began with an inspiring speech from Venture Scotland ambassador Caitlin, who shared her personal story and highlighted the profound impact the charity has had on her life. Representatives from the charity also took part in the challenge itself, securing third place in the women's category, while volunteers supported the event by marshalling checkpoints and cheering competitors across the finish line.
The post-race raffle and auction helped raise over £22,500 for Venture Scotland, contributing directly to the charity's work with young people throughout Scotland.
Competitors were vying for one of three category trophies. The winners were:
Mixed Team: Drees & Sommer
Male Team: Vattenfall Heat UK
Female Team: Naylors
David Peck, Managing Director of Buccleuch Property, said:
"The Buccleuch Property Challenge continues to demonstrate the incredible generosity, determination and team spirit that exists across the property industry. To welcome a record 99 teams to Queensberry Estate and raise more than £22,500 for Venture Scotland is a fantastic achievement. It was particularly moving to hear first-hand how Venture Scotland's work transforms young lives, and we are grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered, donated prizes or supported the event. Their contribution will help ensure that more young people can access the opportunities, support and confidence they need to build brighter futures."
James Cran, Chair of Venture Scotland’s Board of Trustees, said:
"We are absolutely delighted to have been involved in the 2026 Buccleuch Property Challenge. The teams put in an absolutely outstanding effort. It was such a magnificent day for the Venture Scotland team to be part of, to get to see so many teams taking on challenges and having a great time in the outdoors was brilliant! The awesome £22,500 raised through this wonderful day and event will support so many more young people, like Caitlin, to find the hope in their futures that truly changes, and often saves their lives. Thank you to Buccleuch Property and every single person involved whether organising, participating or marshalling - you've made a huge impact!"
A total of 99 teams took part in this year's challenge, representing organisations including Bulleys Chartered Surveyors, bloc, CDA, Clarke Mairs, Colliers, Gorvins, Hawkins\Brown, MSMR, Native Land, Newmark, Tuffin Ferraby Taylor, Shepherd Chartered Surveyors and Trident Building Consultancy.
Since its launch in 2006, the Buccleuch Property Challenge has raised more than £260,000 for a range of charities.