How to Spend a Day in Fort William

Whether you're visiting to climb Ben Nevis, as part of a larger Scottish holiday, or just for a long weekend, Fort William is a great destination. Here's some inspiration on how to spend a day in Fort William, including walks, castles, must-visit locations, and where to get some good Scottish grub!

How To Spend A Day In Fort William

Morning: Explore the Outdoors

Nevis Range Mountain Experience

Start your day with a trip to The Nevis Range. Take the gondola up Aonach Mor for great views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding area. Enjoy a short walk to the viewpoints or hike further if you’re feeling adventurous.

The Jack Marris Pop Up Photography Exhibition At Ben Nevis Visitor Centre

If you visit Fort William between August 3rd-11th 2024, Jack Marris is running a pop up photography exhibition just outside of Ben Nevis Visitor Centre. Take a look at his collection of panoramic photos, including the Nevis Range, the Glen Coe Collection, and other locations around the Highlands. This exhibition is a must-see for anyone who loves photography and nature, with video presentations, interactive displays, and canvas stretching demos, taking you behind the lens and into the life of a photographer based in the Highlands.

Glen Nevis

After you visit Ben Nevis, head to Glen Nevis. Enjoy a walk along the glen with its beautiful forests, rivers, and waterfalls. It's home to one of the three highest waterfalls in Scotland, Steall Falls, which also appeared in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire film. You can find other Harry Potter filming locations around Fort William and beyond, including Glen Finnan Viaduct, Loch Shiel, and Loch Eilt.

Lunch: Enjoy Local Scottish Food

There are plenty of food spots to enjoy in Fort William. The Fort Coffee Collective has been described as the best coffee shop in the area, or you've got The Old Deli for different options, and for incredible vegan options, head to The Wildcat. The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre also has a well-rated cafe, and you can combine that with a factory tour!

Afternoon: Explore Fort William

West Highland Museum After lunch, visit the West Highland Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands. The museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts related to the Jacobite uprisings and local life.

Old Inverlochy Castle Explore the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle, a 13th-century structure that offers a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. Few castles from the 1200s survive unaltered in Scotland today, and Inverlochy is one of the most complete. 

Loch Linnhe Cruise Take a relaxing cruise on Loch Linnhe with Crannog Cruises. The one-hour tour offers stunning views of Ben Nevis, the Caledonian Canal, and the surrounding landscapes.

Finding a Place to Stay in Fort William

The Lime Tree Hotel Stay at The Lime Tree Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms and is conveniently located near the town center and the exhibition venue.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel Set amongst the beautiful Scottish West Highlands scenery, 19th-century Inverlochy Castle is an award-winning luxury hotel and restaurant.

Glen Nevis Youth Hostel If you’re on a budget, the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel offers comfortable and affordable lodging, ideal for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Fort William FAQS

Where is Fort William located? Fort William is located in the Scottish Highlands, on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe, at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles.

How do I get to Fort William? Fort William is accessible by car, train, and bus. The town is connected to major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh via the West Highland Line railway. There are also regular bus services from various parts of Scotland.

What is Fort William famous for?

Fort William is known as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK" due to its proximity to various outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. It is also the gateway to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles.

What are some must-see attractions in Fort William?
Key attractions include:

• Ben Nevis & Glen Nevis: Perfect for hiking and enjoying stunning natural scenery.
• West Highland Museum: A great place to learn about local history and Jacobite culture.
• Old Inverlochy Castle: One of Scotland’s best-preserved medieval castles.
• Loch Linnhe Cruises: Relaxing boat tours with scenic views of the Highlands.

Can I visit filming locations from Harry Potter in Fort William?
Yes, several Harry Potter filming locations are near Fort William, including:

• Steall Falls in Glen Nevis, seen in The Goblet of Fire.
• Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Hogwarts Express scenes.
• Loch Shiel and Loch Eilt, used for various iconic shots.

Are there any festivals or events in Fort William?

Yes, Fort William hosts several events throughout the year, including:

What To Know Before Your Trip

There's plenty to see, do, and explore in Fort William and the surrounding area! Pack your walking boots & waterproofs (hopefully you won't need them but best to be prepared!), and enjoy your trip to the Outdoor Capital of the UK!