You will be spoilt for things to do in Fort William. Behind Inverness, it's the second largest settlement in the Scottish Highlands. The town is located in the West Highlands of Scotland, and is often described as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’. Home to some of the most dramatic mountain and loch scenery to be found anywhere in the UK, the area has rugged cliffs, green valleys and ancient historical sites. Here we outline the very best things to do in Fort William.
1. Climb Ben Nevis
Let’s begin with a sure-fire bucket list activity: climbing Ben Nevis. Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in Britain and the mountain path ascent will generally take between 3 to 4 hours to complete. The summit is the collapsed dome of an ancient volcano offering hikers incredible views. The descent is another 3 hour walk down, then you can hit the pub in Fort William.
Ben Nevis above Fort William.
2. The West Highland Museum
The West Highland Museum is found in the centre of Fort William. The museum is home to a number of diverse collections relating to the history of the West Highlands. Its most renowned collection relates to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rebellion. The entry fee is £4 for adults and free for children under 12.
3. Steall Waterfall
No trip to Fort William is complete without getting in touch with nature. Steall Waterfall is a spectacular waterfall found in Glen Nevis. Standing 100 metres high, the falls are quiet a sight. When approaching them you can cross a wire bridge to reach the very base of the waterfalls, or else stay on the other side of the river and admire the views from a distance.
Steal Falls.
4. The Great Glen Way
The Great Glen Way is arguably the most beautiful walk in Scotland. Beginning in Fort William the route takes walkers all the way to Inverness over a distance of 125 kilometres. The Great Glen Way takes you through some of the most magnificent scenery in the Scottish Highlands, and you can either begin or end your journey in the town of Fort William.
Glenfinnan Monument on The Great Glen Way.
5. Ben Nevis Distillery
The Ben Nevis Distillery and Visitor Centre in Fort William is another top attraction. Established in 1825 the distillery is one of oldest licensed distilleries in the UK and distills Ben Nevis 10 Years Old, and Ben Nevis 21 Years Old whisky. The visitor centre was established in 1991 and offers guided tours which explain the complex whisky making process. The distillery is located at Lochy Bridge, Fort William, and is visible from the A82 main road between Glasgow and Inverness. The entrance fee for adults is £5, and the tasting tour costs £18 per person.