Fort William Travel Guide

For an adventure in the hills, head to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. This charming city on the shore of Loch Linnhe is known as the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom, with plenty of opportunity for hiking and mountain climbing. Lots of tourists visit the city to climb Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the country.

For Harry Potter fans, the ‘Hogwart’s Express’ runs from Fort William on the famous railway road from the movie. When it comes to eateries, there is the opportunity to dig into traditional Scottish cuisine such as haggis and salmon, as well as fish and chips. Plus, remember to try some whisky when you are in Fort William.

Things to Do in Fort William

Top things to do including climbing up Ben Nevis. This is a challenging climb and there is an ascending route that can be followed to the summit. To sample some whisky, head to the Ben Nevis Distillery, first opening in 1825 -- there's also a visitor center and a tour to learn more about the distillery process. For some history about the area and the Scottish Highlands, the West Highland Museum is ideal for history buffs. For boat enthusiasts, a popular attraction is Neptune’s Staircase: these eight gates are located on the Caledonian Canal, which are the longest in the UK. Hikers can stroll past them on the Great Glen Way.

Best Time to Visit Fort William

The best time to visit Fort William is during the summer months when there is pleasant weather for spending time outdoors. For cheaper accommodation outside of the peak tourist season, May and September are good times to visit Fort William.