The Complete Guide To Fort William, Scotland
Looking for things to do in Fort William, how to visit, where to stay - or wondering if you should stop here on your Scotland trip? This is a town I visit frequently, and my locals guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Fort William.
Written by: Lesley Stewart | Updated July 2025
If you’re planning an adventure-filled escape to the Highlands, Fort William is likely right at the top of your list. And it’s little wonder, with its title as the outdoor capital of the UK. One of my favourite towns in the Scottish Highlands for adventures, hikes, and waterfalls, this is a complete guide to the best things to do in Fort William.
I moved to the Scottish Highlands a few years ago, and Fort William has become a key stop on many of my road trips. With favourites like Glencoe and the Skye Ferry so close by, it’s also my idea of the perfect West Coast road trip base. Safe to say, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the town and everything it has to offer.
Unlike many of Scotland’s smaller, more remote Highland towns, it strikes a rare balance. It’s surrounded by spectacular scenery yet still has a proper town centre, complete with independent restaurants, cosy pubs, boutique shops, and welcoming cafes.
After spending dozens of days here over numerous trips, I can say what a breath of fresh air it is to stay in Fort William. Many people who visit simply pass through or trade their time for a Nevis hike and leave. But it might be one of the more convenient bases to do outdoor adventures, coupled with Highlands day trips.
A meeting point for roads leading to Scotland’s most iconic places — the Isle of Skye to the west, Glencoe to the south, Inverness and the NC500 to the north — it’s a town built for adventures. And while the town may feel more humble than the rest of the West Coast, what it lacks in charming architecture, it more than makes up for in its spectacular landscapes.
Here’s my guide to the very best things to do in Fort William, plus some local tips and helpful advice to make the most of your time here.
Fort William Map & Itinerary
Planning a trip through the Scottish Highlands?
My digital Fort William and Highlands guide is essential for first-time travellers and includes everything you need make exploring easy and unforgettable: from scenic stops and must-see sights, to hidden gems worth detouring for. It includes great spots to visit, eat, and explore, plus a handy pinned Google Map to navigate on the go!
Or get in touch for something custom.
Quick book. Here’s my top Fort William picks:
This is a long post so if you’re short on time, here’s a quick round-up of my favourite things to do and see in Fort William, Scotland (full details on everything below!):
HOTELS:
The Garrison: for the best small hotel stay in the centre of town.
Nevis Bank Inn: for the best small hotel near Ben Nevis.
Lime Tree: for the best boutique stay overlooking Loch Linnhe.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel: best luxury stay, rooms are stylish and lux.
Wild Nurture: best boutique log cabin (sleeps 5).
THINGS TO DO:
Hike Ben Nevis with a private guide
Boat trip around Loch Linnhe
Take the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola
Visit the Jacobite steam train
Walk to Steall Waterfalls
A local gins and whiskies tasting
Sample local seafood
See the Caol shipwreck
Explore postcard-perfect Glen Nevis
Easy Cow Hill trail & viewpoint
Travel tip: The best way to explore the Scottish Highlands is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our car rentals in Scotland, which offers the most flexible and affordable options alongside trusted companies like Hertz or Sixt. Book your car with Discover Cars here.
What to Know Before You Visit Fort William
Is Fort William Worth Visiting?
Deep lochs, elemental mountains, sweeping glens, and classic Highland landscapes ensure that Fort William is well worth visiting. The town also makes a perfect base for adventures in the Western Highlands, with easy access to some of the Lochaber’s best and most spectacular places.
That said, it’s worth mentioning something upfront, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
Fort William isn’t a traditional tourist town packed with big-name sights, historical landmarks, or photogenic ruins. You won’t find grand cathedrals or bustling museums here. And if you arrive without the right expectations, you might miss what makes this place so special.
We’ve even seen articles describing Fort William as disappointing, and for some visitors, it can be, particularly if they come expecting a polished resort town.
But here’s the thing — Fort William is ALL about the outdoors.
Hiking boots are essential. The joy of visiting comes from slowing down, getting outside, and soaking up the fresh Highland air. It’s about walking forested trails, standing on the banks of Loch Linnhe at golden hour, or climbing just high enough to see the world stretch out beneath you.
The best things here aren’t tucked behind ticket counters. They’re out there in the landscape, waiting to be explored.
How Much Time to Visit Fort William?
While you could see Fort William in a full day, I think it’s deserving of 2-3 nights. There is a lot to explore, including hikes and outdoor adventures, the local cuisine, and nearby experiences. I would recommend 3 nights in the town itself and factor in day trips to Glencoe, Glenfinnan, and Ardnamurchan.
Does Fort William Make a Good Base for Exploring?
For as far as the Western Highlands go, I think this is one of the best towns. It’s not nearly as busy as Inverness, you’re close to Glencoe and Glenfinnan, making it easy to do day trips, and it’s an easy and relatively quick drive to the Isle of Skye ferry port.
Additionally, you have access to all the amenities of one of the larger towns in the Highlands, something I think you will come to appreciate at some point during your trip.
Best Things to do in Fort William
1. Explore the town and loch
Like any town in Scotland, the experience always begins with a wander around town. Now, I think you’ll find Fort William’s town centre compact — it’s only one street long and in all honesty, at first glance it’s perhaps not the most charming spot. However, don’t be fooled.
There are heaps of really great cafes here, boujee bakeries, seafood shacks, and a scattering of boutique stores like the Highland Liquor Co, Highland Soap Company, and The Highland Bookshop (you’ll find them all pinned in your Fort William map).
From the high street, follow the road as it curves downhill towards Loch Linnhe. This sea loch is tidal, meaning little rocky beaches appear along its banks, there’s an old pier with glorious coastal views, and a walkway worth strolling along despite the busy road.
Towards the tip of Loch Linnhe, you’ll find the ruins of the old garrison from which the town takes its name.
Locals tip: ignore that tartan tat stores at all costs. Full of rubbish, expensive, not authentic, and not locally owned.
2. Loch Linnhe boat trip
If you like getting out on the water, then a seal spotting cruise on Loch Linnhe should be top of your things to do in Fort William.
Head to Fort William pier, and you’ll find small, cute cruise boats that take regular trips across the loch.
You can choose from various boat trips, but my favourites are the seal spotting option in summer, sunset cruise, or the heated cabin trip in winter. Honestly, these boat trips are incredible and worth carving out time for.
Lasting around 90 minutes, the captain takes time to share his local knowledge, snippets of Fort William’s history, and point out wildlife. This is the perfect activity for families and couples alike, and trust me, it’ll absolutely make your trip if you spot one of the seals!
I recommend booking your ticket in advance; the boats are small and don’t take many passengers, so they do tend to sell out.
Local tip: If you’re heading out a Loch Linnhe cruise around lunch time, grab a takeaway from seafood stand Blas na Mara. This unassuming shack is a constant temptation for me when I’m in Fort William, with squat lobster salads, buckets of langoustines, and seafood subs are just a few highlights from the extensive menu.
3. Hike Ben Nevis
At the heart of it all is Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain and a rite of passage for many travellers making their way north. The dramatic Nevis Range dominates the skyline, creating a sense of scale that never really fades.
Hiking Ben Nevis is one of the best things to do in Fort William, and thousands of people climb the trail every year — and for good reason. A challenging yet straightforward hike, despite being incredibly rocky underfoot, the trail is easy to follow.
However, be warned: at 1,345m in height, climbing to the summit and back down takes around eight hours and requires a solid level of fitness and the ability to navigate safely from the summit when the clouds roll in.
If you’d love to see Scotland from the summit of its highest peak, but would also like expert guidance, as qualified Mountain Leaders, we offer private and group guiding on Ben Nevis. Get in touch if you’d like to find out more about booking a hike.
4. Walk to Steall Waterfall
If you’re looking for a short walk but big, spectacular views, the trail to Steall Waterfall in Glen Nevis is a must.
It’s on every list of the best things to do in Fort William and rightfully so - it’s a stunning location, and if you carve out time for one walk, I recommend you make it this.
The trail to Steall Falls leads you through the dramatic Nevis Gorge to a wide meadow where the waterfall cascades 120 metres down a sheer cliff face. It’s a 3.5km return walk (about 1.5–2 hours round trip), starting from the Upper Glen Nevis car park.
The path is rocky, narrow in places, and can be muddy after rain, so proper footwear is essential. And, if you’re feeling brave, cross the iconic wire rope bridge to get closer to the falls. Popular (more so thanks to its starring role in a Harry Potter movie), Steall Falls is so open it never feels overcrowded.
Trust me when I say that this is a true Fort William highlight, especially at sunset.
Local tip: if you have time, follow my favourite riverside route to the falls. Starting in the Lower Falls car park, this trail is longer (expect to take 3 hours there-and-back), but far less walked. Follow the signpost for “Paddy’s Bridge” and take a quick detour to the small but dramatic Lower Falls. Next, join the riverside track that winds its way through the glen and beneath towering mountain Stob Ban.
Eventually, you’ll meet the official start point above. But with fewer people, secret falls, and mountain views, it’s a rewarding extension. You can find both options in this comprehensive Steall Falls guide.
6. Go gin or whisky tasting
Quite possibly one of my favourite afternoon activities is tasting local Highland gins (and occasionally whisky) at Highland Liquor Company Bottle Shop. One of my biggest regrets is missing a few of their whisky tasting nights this summer, but during the day, you can pop in and ask for a completely impromptu gin tasting.
Sample their own gin (made right here in the Highlands), and gins from exclusively across the west coast. The staff are incredibly friendly and shared their knowledge with us, making the whole experience incredibly fun.
Afterwards, we picked up speciality olives, crackers, crisps, and tonics from their deli (and a bottle of gin, of course) to savour that night in our accommodation. You’ll also find unusual wines here, a huge range of whiskies and other spirits, and miniatures that fit nicely into your suitcase.
7. Cow Hill trail and lookout
This short hill trail starts just behind the town and offers panoramic views over Fort William, Loch Linnhe, and Ben Nevis. It’s steep in places (seriously, your legs will burn at times) but manageable for most walkers, and I think a brilliant option if you’re not up for a biggie like Ben Nevis but still want that Highland summit feeling.
The trail criss-crosses the hill, so there are a few route options, and handily, there are signposts along the way to keep you on track.
When I’m short on time, the lower path from Fort William into Glen Nevis is my preferred option, with a viewpoint and benches to catch your breath! Allow around 40 minutes. But for something longer and steeper, you can continue upwards towards the phone mast, which takes around an hour. Factor in your return time, or take the local bus from near the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre.
You’ll find the start points in my Fort William map.
8. Visit Glen Nevis
It almost feels like you’re stepping into a postcard at Glen Nevis; it’s almost too picture-perfect. Drive through the glen (it comes to an end at Lower Falls car park), and keep your eyes peeled for the resident Highland Cows that live amongst the meadows here.
The views along the road are some of the best in the Highlands: soaring mountains, tumbling waterfalls, sparkling rivers, and leafy forests.
The Ben Nevis Visitor Centre is a good spot to sit down on a bench and soak in the mountain scenery. I love to take a stroll along the river; it’s a short and easy trail that loops back on itself along the glen road. Or cross the suspension bridge and follow signs for the Ben Nevis Inn, an ancient inn located at the Ben Nevis trailhead, and a popular place for hearty meals and drinks.
9. The Jacobite Steam Train
Whilst the best place to see the Jacobite Steam Train (aka Hogwarts Express) is undoubtedly the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Fort William station is a close second—and far more accessible.
If you’ve booked a journey on the Jacobite, this is where your adventure begins and ends. But even if you're not travelling on the train, it’s still well worth a visit, especially for steam engine enthusiasts or Harry Potter fans.
What many people don’t realise (and I was shocked to discover) is that you can simply walk onto the platform in the morning and get up close to the train, no ticket required. Although the train calls at the station four times per day, I think the best time to visit is just before its first departure, around 8:30am, when the platform is quiet, steam is hissing, and the crew are prepping the engine for the day ahead.
It’s a magical scene and a great photo opportunity, usually without the crowds.
10. Sample local food & drinks
Scotland’s west coast is famous for its exceptional seafood, and as you might expect, there are fantastic places to eat in Fort William serving scallops, mussels, fish, and langoustines fresh off the boat.
However, there’s more to taste in Fort William than seafood, and the town is unexpectedly home to incredible wood-fired pizzas, steak houses, several top-notch bakeries and cafes, and street food specialists. All that to say, you certainly won’t go hungry!
My outdoor adventures often lead me to Fort William in search of dinner (or sweet treats), and my constant favourites are: Black Isle (for casual pizza), Fishy Fish (for fish & chips), Blas Na Mara (for takeaway seafood), Kilted Camel (for coffee and cakes), and Farine (for pastries).
For something a little more formal, Crannog at Garrison West and Silly Goose restaurants serve up excellent food.
At night or after hiking: a local beer, gin, or cocktails in my favourite pubs, Black Isle Bar, Highland Cinema, Ben Nevis Inn, and Ben Nevis Bar.
12. Visit Fort William Distillery
Whisky lovers looking for a Fort William distillery should take a tour of Ben Nevis Distillery. One of the oldest distillers in Scotland, founded by John “Long John” MacDonald in 1825, here they make Ben Nevis whisky - named after the mountain that towers over the distillery. The water used to create this incredible whisky comes from the mountain itself; at over 4,000ft, it’s the highest water source in Scotland.
Book a guided tour from a small but expert team and learn about the history of this iconic Fort William whisky. Then, alongside your guide, enjoy a whisky tasting in the newly renovated bar.
On-site, there’s a cafe serving refreshments and light bites, plus the Ben Nevis Distillery shop for those looking to take home a bottle of this unique malt.
Situated on the edge of Fort William, it’s an easy walk or taxi journey to the distillery from the town centre.
13. Visit the Caol shipwreck, marina & canal
Just outside of Fort William are the smaller coastal communities of Corpach and Banavie. These lesser-known villages conceal three of the area’s best sites.
Caol shipwreck
The Old Boat of Caol shipwreck in the nearby coastal village of Corpach ran aground after a storm in 2011. Today, it has become a popular photography spot and for good reason - the storm-damaged vessel against a backdrop of mountains and Loch Linnhe makes for a memorable introduction to the Highland landscape.
This is also one of the best places to photograph Ben Nevis, especially at sunset.
Corpach marina
Next, visit the charming marina that’s just a short distance along the tow path. Built in the 19th century, it was originally used by boats transporting goods from Inverness. Nowadays, the whitewashed cottages and lighthouse are a peaceful spot away from the town’s hustle and bustle.
Have a stroll over the canal bridges, soak in the coastal views, visit the resident gaggle of ducks, and enjoy coffee and cakes in An Cafaidh Mara cafe. Or pop into Candz Boutique for a coffee, ice cream, or a very delicious waffle. Find it here.
Neptune’s Staircase & The Caledonian Canal
Built between 1808 and 1822, Neptune’s Staircase is a feat of engineering. Designed by Thomas Telford, the staircase is a series of eight canal locks, each at vastly different heights, that fill and empty to create a passage for boats, leading them out to Loch Linnhe and eventually to the sea.
To this day, the staircase transports all kinds of boats along the Caledonian Canal, and watching ships navigate the locks is pretty fascinating. It’s also a lovely area for a walk, and there’s an easy path all along the canal.
After, pop into Candz for a coffee, ice cream, or a very delicious waffle.
Getting there: Located a few miles outside of Fort William, the best way to visit the Caol shipwreck, marina, and canal is via the Great Glen walk or cycle path, which I’ll share below. You can also drive to Banavie Locks, where you’ll find free parking at the canal.
14. Explore the Great Glen Way
If you’re looking for an easy walk or cycle with gorgeous views, then the Great Glen Way is the perfect option. Walk as far as you like on the 79-mile/127km national trail. But the best part is the short(ish) coastal section that links Fort William with Neptune’s Staircase and Corpach Marina.
To start, follow the blue thistle marker signs for the Great Glen Way from Fort William centre. Follow the route as it runs alongside Loch Linnhe, past Caol Beach, the shipwreck, before joining the Caledonian Canal towards Corpach Marina. Take a detour on the canal towpath towards Neptune’s Staircase, before re-joining the route back to Fort William.
If you time your visit, you might even catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express steam train as it passes by on the train line that runs alongside this route.
Time: The journey from Fort William town centre to the marina and canal locks takes around 1.5 hours to walk and 25 minutes to cycle (one way). If you don’t want to walk back, consider returning to town on a local bus.
Local tip: If you want to cycle but don’t have your own bike, consider hiring an electric bike from the Fort William centre. The Hi-Bikes are dotted at 35 stations around town, including the High Street and the train station. Alternatively, drive to Banavie Locks and explore the shorter section of the route around Caol and the canal towpath.
Day Trips from Fort William
As we’ve mentioned, Fort William makes an incredible base for exploring other areas of the Highlands.
The best Fort William day trips are only a short drive, and you can easily explore the Glenfinnan Viaduct and steam train, breathtaking landscapes at Highland masterpiece Glencoe, and the magical wild beaches around the west coast.
Fort William is also the perfect jumping-off point for adventures further north. Although definitely not a day trip, Inverness, the NC500, and the Isle of Skye are all within easy reach.
How to get to Fort William & Tours
Chances are, you’ll be visiting Fort William on a more extensive Scottish Highlands road trip. Visiting by car is undoubtedly the easiest option, as having your own vehicle allows you the freedom to explore and go off the beaten track.
However, a guided tour is an incredible option, too, and the best tours include transport, an expert guide, and generally stop at nearby Glencoe and Glenfinnan on their journey north.
These highly rated Fort William tours leave from Edinburgh city centre, last for a full day, and offer the opportunity to sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning Highlands scenery from the comfort of a well-equipped coach:
From Edinburgh: Fort William & Scottish Highlands Tour (for getting into the heart of the Highlands).
