Fort William: Gateway to the West Highlands

Contents: Top Attractions | Accommodation | More Impressions

“An Gearasdan”, “the garrison” – that is the Gaelic name for Fort William. Every name here points to a military past. Yet the town actually began life as a small fishing village at the mouth of the River Lochy, which flows here from the Great Glen.

But it did not stay peaceful: in the 13th century, Clan Comyn built a castle here, Inverlochy Castle. Over the following centuries, at least two major battles took place here. Later, the British government wanted to control this strategically important entrance to the Great Glen and built a fort.

Today, nothing remains of the original fortification. But Fort William kept its strategic position: as a hub and gateway to the West Highlands. Outdoor enthusiasts in particular hike and bike from here into the massif around Scotland’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. And this is also where the famous West Highland Way comes to an end.

And of course, the “Harry Potter train” also departs from Fort William – or The Jacobite Steam Train, to give it its proper name. That is why hundreds of tourists regularly flock to the local station.

The town’s actual centre is the pedestrianised shopping street, the High Street. This is where you will find the shops, pubs and museums.

Fort William: The Most Important Attractions

The town itself is not exactly blessed with attractions, so I have cast the net a little wider. Here is a map with all the sights, followed below by longer descriptions of each.

West Highland Museum

The West Highland Museum gives visitors an ideal starting point for exploring Fort William and the surrounding area. Here you learn the history of both ordinary residents and powerful rulers around Fort William – everything from everyday school life to major battles.

And naturally it also covers the ever-present Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Jacobite Rising, which met its end on the battlefield of Culloden. The impact of both World Wars on the local population is also brought to life.

Across several floors, the West Highland Museum showcases the history and stories of and around Fort William. The display cases hold beautiful pieces – glassware, clothing, weapons and much more. It makes for a genuinely enjoyable visit, especially on a rainy day. Admission is free, but I would encourage everyone to support this unique museum with a small donation.

Info West Highland Museum
Address: Cameron Square, Fort William, Scotland, PH33 6AJ
Admission: free
Website: www.westhighlandmuseum.org.uk

Jacobite Steam Train

Ever since the Harry Potter films, the Jacobite Steam Train, or “The Jacobite”, has been world-famous. It runs through enchanting scenery along the Road to the Isles, across the Glenfinnan Viaduct (the arched bridge from the film), past the beaches of Morar, all the way to Mallaig. The Jacobite is based in Fort William, departing from here up to twice a day during the season.

I have written up what to expect on the journey here, by the way:

Please note: Since the operator repeatedly ends up in court battles over its operating licence, you should always check the website to see whether it is currently taking one of its occasional breaks.

Info Jacobite Steam Train
Address: Cameron Square, Fort William PH33 6AJ (right by the pedestrian zone)
Timetable:
Morning departure 10:15am, runs late March to late October (seven days a week)
Afternoon departure 12:50pm, runs early May to late September (seven days a week)
Cost: Adults 1st class approx. £98, 2nd class approx. £65, children 1st class approx. £64, 2nd class approx. £36 (2024)
Website: westcoastrailways.co.uk

Ben Nevis Distillery

At the foot of Ben Nevis, a whisky of the same name is made. The distillery also offers tours.

Info Ben Nevis Distillery
Address: Lochy Bridge, Fort William PH33 6TJ
Opening hours:
Year-round Mon-Fri 9:30am-5:00pm
June to August also Sat 10:00am-6:00pm, Sun 12:00pm-6:00pm
Website: www.bennevisdistillery.com

Old Inverlochy Castle

The Comyns’ old castle dates from the 13th century. It commands a strategic view over the mouth of the River Lochy, on which Fort William itself is also built. The old stronghold is now just a ruin, but a remarkable one nonetheless.

Two battles were fought at the castle. In the second, two Highland armies clashed: the Campbells of the Duke of Argyll on one side, Clan Donald and other clans on the other. The commander Alasdair MacColla dealt the Campbells a bloody defeat here.

❗️Please note: Inverlochy Castle is one of many sites currently undergoing renovation, so it may not be freely accessible. It is best to check the Historic Environment Scotland website beforehand.

👉 Tip: The short path behind it, along the river, is also very pretty, offering views of the ruins, the River Lochy and the old railway bridge. Right next door is the large Highland Soap Company, which makes and sells soaps, oils and much more. The Jacobite Steam Train’s sidings are also just nearby.

More information and photos of Inverlochy Castle in my full write-up:

Info Inverlochy Castle
Address: Fort William PH33 6TF
Website: www.historicenvironment.scot

Neptune’s Staircase

A little way outside Fort William, on the other side of Loch Linnhe, lies the village of Banavie. This is where the Caledonian Canal begins, linking Fort William via the lochs of the Great Glen to Inverness.

Along its route, the canal repeatedly has to overcome changes in height. Right here, near the very start, ships must first pass through eight locks and their gates before they can continue on. Locals call this spot Neptune’s Staircase, and it is a wonderful place for a walk while watching the boats go by, with Ben Nevis towering in the background.

👉Tip: Time it right, and you will see the Jacobite Steam Train cross the bridge at the end of the locks.

You will find more information on Neptune’s Staircase in my full article here:

Accommodation in Fort William

On the map below you will find a selection of places to stay in Fort William. The links and the map are affiliate links – if you book through them, I receive a small share. (Advertisement)

More Impressions from Fort William