First time visitor's guide to Fort William

A guide for first-time visitors

This guide will help you make the most of your day in this charming Highland town, exploring top attractions, hidden gems, and a taste of Highland hospitality. Here is a breakdown of how you could

Morning

Starting the day at Neptune’s Staircase

Begin your day with a visit to Neptune’s Staircase, one of Fort William's most impressive engineering feats. Located about 4 miles from the town centre, this series of eight locks is part of the Caledonian Canal and was built by the renowned engineer Thomas Telford in the early 19th century. The staircase raises boats 64 feet across its length, making it the longest staircase lock in Britain.

Watching the locks in action is fascinating and a great way to ease into the day, especially if you catch a boat ascending or descending the staircase. The nearby Moorings Hotel offers a cozy café where you can grab a coffee and a light breakfast while enjoying views of the canal and Ben Nevis in the distance. The area is perfect for a morning stroll, with footpaths that run alongside the canal and offer views of Loch Linnhe and the surrounding mountains.

Mid-morning

Ben Nevis visitor centre and Glen Nevis

Next, make your way to the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, a short drive from the town centre, to learn about the UK's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, which towers at 4,413 feet. The visitor centre provides insightful information about the mountain’s history, local geology, and ecology. It’s also the starting point for the Ben Nevis Mountain Path, the primary trail up the mountain. If you’re feeling adventurous and have time (and weather!) on your side, you could set out on a hike, but for most first-time visitors, Ben Nevis is best appreciated from the ground.

Afterward, explore the stunning Glen Nevis area. Known for its lush greenery, tumbling waterfalls, and dramatic scenery, Glen Nevis is a paradise for nature lovers. Take a leisurely walk to Steall Falls, one of Scotland’s highest waterfalls, which cascades down from a height of 120 meters. The trail to the falls is a moderate 1.5-mile hike each way, offering incredible views of the Nevis Gorge along the route. This iconic spot has also been featured in several films, including Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, adding a touch of magic to your visit.

Lunch

Dining in the town centre

After a morning of exploring, head back to Fort William’s town centre for lunch. The town offers a variety of cafés, pubs, and restaurants serving traditional Scottish fare and international dishes. The Grog & Gruel is a popular choice for both locals and visitors, serving classic pub fare with a Highland twist. Try some local favourites like haggis, neeps, and tatties, or a warming bowl of Cullen skink—a traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and leeks.

For seafood lovers, Crannog Seafood Restaurant is a must. Located right on the shores of Loch Linnhe, this cozy spot specialises in fresh, locally sourced seafood. Their fish and chips are exceptional, and the views over the loch add to the experience. If the weather’s good, you can enjoy your meal outside, soaking in the scenic beauty that Fort William is known for.

Afternoon

The West Highland Museum and shopping on the high street

After lunch, dive into some Highland history at the West Highland Museum on Cameron Square. This small but well-curated museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history of the Highlands, including Jacobite memorabilia, clan history, and even an entire section dedicated to Bonnie Prince Charlie. Highlights include the death mask of Bonnie Prince Charlie and artefacts from the 1745 Jacobite uprising. It’s a great way to understand the region's history and cultural heritage, and admission is free, which makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.

Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll down High Street, the main shopping area in Fort William. Here, you’ll find a variety of stores selling everything from local crafts and souvenirs to outdoor gear and Scottish whisky. The Highland Soap Company is a great stop for unique, handmade soaps and lotions crafted from natural ingredients. For whisky lovers, Ben Nevis Distillery has a shop here where you can sample and purchase their local single malt, a true taste of the Highlands.

Late afternoon

The Jacobite Steam Train (The Hogwarts Express)

If you’re visiting between April and October, don’t miss the chance to ride the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films. Departing from Fort William, the train journey takes you on one of the world’s most scenic railway routes, passing through the Highlands to the coastal village of Mallaig. Highlights of the journey include crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct (as seen in the Harry Potter films) and breathtaking views of lochs, mountains, and coastlines.

The round trip takes about 2 hours each way, so plan accordingly if you’re doing the full route. For those with a tight schedule, it’s possible to book a one-way ticket and return by bus. Tickets sell out fast, so booking in advance is highly recommended. (Please note, this only runs seasonally.)

Evening

Sunset views over Loch Linnhe

As the day winds down, make your way to Loch Linnhe to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the water. The loch stretches along the western coast, and the views are nothing short of stunning, with mountains and islands dotting the horizon. Corpach Sea Lock is a particularly good spot for evening views, with Ben Nevis in the background creating a picturesque setting.

If you’re in the mood for a leisurely dinner, The Lime Tree An Ealdhain offers a cosy dining experience with an emphasis on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a warm, intimate atmosphere and serves dishes that celebrate Highland flavours with a contemporary twist. It’s a perfect place to reflect on your day in Fort William, enjoying fine food and Highland hospitality.

Night

Overnight stay options

If you’re staying overnight, Fort William offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels. The Alexandra Hotel and The Nevis Bank Inn are both centrally located and offer comfortable, welcoming stays. For a unique experience, consider staying in a traditional Highland guesthouse, where you’ll often be treated to stories about the area and maybe even a homemade Scottish breakfast.

For those with camping in mind, the Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park offers excellent facilities and a chance to sleep under the stars with Ben Nevis as your backdrop. Just be sure to book ahead, especially during peak hiking season, as spots can fill up quickly.

Final thoughts on Fort William

Spending a day in Fort William is like stepping into a Highland postcard. From the dramatic landscapes to the rich historical sites, the town and its surroundings offer something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the engineering marvel of Neptune’s Staircase, hiking to Steall Falls, uncovering Highland history at the West Highland Museum, or catching a ride on the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, Fort William has a unique way of capturing your heart and making you want to return for more.
For first-time visitors, this guide provides a well-rounded experience of what Fort William has to offer. Embrace the beauty, savour the local flavours, and let the breathtaking scenery be your backdrop as you explore the true spirit of the Scottish Highlands.