Top 10 Things to do in Fort William

Things to do in Fort William

Welcome to Fort William, a picturesque town located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, this charming destination offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and discover its rich history. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture lover, there’s something for everyone here.

1. West Highland Museum

The West Highland Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs who want to learn more about Fort William’s rich past. Located in Cameron Square, this charming museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town’s heritage.

From Jacobite memorabilia to archaeological finds, there’s something here for everyone. One of the highlights of the museum is its display on Bonnie Prince Charlie and his role in the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

Another interesting exhibit is ‘The Story of Lochaber’, which tells the story of how this area has changed over thousands of years from prehistoric times to modern-day. You can also explore local crafts and industries such as weaving, fishing, and agriculture.

A visit to The West Highland Museum is a fascinating insight into Fort William’s unique cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in Scottish history or just looking for something different to do on your trip, don’t miss out on this fantastic gem!

2. Cow Hill

Cow Hill is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. This hill offers stunning views of Fort William and its surrounding areas. The hike to the top is challenging, but the breath-taking view from the summit makes it worth all the effort.

The trail starts near Achintee Road, which takes you through a forested area before opening up to grassy slopes. Along the way, you will come across various wildlife such as deer and red squirrels.

Once you reach the summit of Cow Hill, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Ben Nevis and Loch Linnhe. It’s an ideal spot for photography lovers who want to capture some spectacular shots of Scotland’s natural beauty.

For those looking for more adventure, there are several trails that lead off from Cow Hill towards other destinations like Glen Nevis or Steall Falls. However, make sure that you have enough time and energy if you plan on exploring these additional routes.

Cow Hill is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike in Fort William with breath-taking scenery along the way.

3. Lochaber Geopark

Lochaber Geopark is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast or geology lover visiting Fort William. The park covers an area of over 4,000 square kilometres and boasts diverse landscapes that range from serene lochs to rugged mountains.

One of the highlights of Lochaber Geopark is its abundant geological diversity. Visitors can explore the prehistoric remains of volcanoes, take in breath-taking views at Ben Nevis—the UK’s highest mountain—and discover ancient rocks dating back to more than 2 billion years ago.

For adventure seekers, there are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Lochaber Geopark. Hiking trails pepper the landscape, offering visitors stunning views as they trek through valleys and forests. For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, rock climbing and scrambling are available too.

If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, be sure to check out one of the many guided tours on offer throughout the park. Knowledgeable guides will lead visitors through some of Lochaber’s most beautiful locations while sharing stories about its rich history and geology.

In summary, if you’re interested in exploring Scotland’s natural beauty and geological wonders during your trip to Fort William make sure not to miss out on visiting Lochaber Geopark!

4. The Highland Bookshop

The Highland Bookshop is a must-visit destination for book lovers and those interested in the literary history of Scotland. This charming little bookstore offers an impressive selection of books on almost every topic, including local history, Scottish literature, and travel guides.

Located in the heart of Fort William’s High Street, The Highland Bookshop has a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to lose track of time while browsing through their shelves. The staff are knowledgeable about their stock and always happy to recommend something new or help you find whatever you’re looking for.

In addition to books, The Highland Bookshop also sells unique gifts and souvenirs inspired by Scottish culture and heritage. From tartan scarves to locally-made pottery, there’s plenty to choose from if you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or gift.

One thing that sets this bookstore apart is its commitment to sustainability – they use recycled packaging materials whenever possible and prioritize eco-friendly products wherever they can.

A visit to The Highland Bookshop is an experience not soon forgotten – whether you’re seeking out a new read or simply exploring one of Fort William’s hidden gems.

5. Nevis Range Mountain Resort

The Nevis Range Mountain Resort is one of the most popular attractions in Fort William. Located at the base of Ben Nevis, it offers breath-taking views and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the main draws of the resort is its skiing and snowboarding facilities. With 35 different runs catering to all levels, there’s something here for everyone. The gondola rides up to the slopes also provides stunning panoramic views.

For those who prefer warmer weather activities, there are also mountain biking trails and hiking routes available. There’s even a high ropes course and zipline for thrill-seekers.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, take a trip on the scenic chairlift or grab lunch at the Snow goose restaurant with its panoramic views over Lochaber.

Visiting Nevis Range Mountain Resort is an excellent way to experience Scotland’s natural beauty while enjoying some adventure sports along the way.

6. Highland Cinema

If you’re looking for a cosy and intimate cinema experience, the Highland Cinema in Fort William is definitely worth checking out. Located on the town’s main street, this charming cinema offers a variety of movies for all ages.

One thing that sets the Highland Cinema apart from other movie theatres is its unique seating arrangement – instead of traditional theatre seats, viewers can relax on comfy couches and armchairs while they watch their favourite films. This adds to the overall cosy atmosphere of the place and makes it feel more like a home theatre than a commercial cinema.

Despite its smaller size, the Highland Cinema doesn’t skimp on quality when it comes to movie selection. Whether you’re in the mood for an indie flick or a blockbuster hit, chances are you’ll find something that suits your taste here.

And if you need to grab some snacks before settling in for your movie, don’t worry – there’s a small cafe area where you can purchase popcorn, candy, and drinks.

If you’re looking for a relaxed and enjoyable evening out at the movies during your visit to Fort William, be sure to add the Highland Cinema to your list of things to do!

7. Glen Nevis Lower Falls

Glen Nevis Lower Falls is a hidden gem located just outside of Fort William. It offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscape and an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature up close.

The falls are easily accessible by foot, with a well-maintained path leading visitors through the forest and down to the water’s edge. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breath-taking views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.

Once at the falls themselves, visitors can take in their majesty from one of several viewing platforms or get even closer by crossing over to an island in the middle of the river.

The sound and power of the rushing water is truly awe-inspiring, making Glen Nevis Lower Falls a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Fort William. And with its location just outside town, it’s easy to fit into any itinerary without taking up too much time.

8. Old Inverlochy Castle

Old Inverlochy Castle is a significant historical landmark located in Fort William. The castle was built in the early 13th century as a stronghold for the Comyn family. Over time, it passed through several hands and saw many battles before finally falling into ruin.

Today, visitors can explore the remains of this once-great fortress and get a glimpse into Scotland’s fascinating past. The castle is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers stunning views of Ben Nevis, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

Walking around Old Inverlochy Castle gives you a sense of what life would have been like during medieval times. You can see remnants of walls, towers, and even some underground passages that were used to move supplies during sieges.

One thing that makes Old Inverlochy Castle stand out is its impressive size. It covers over three acres and has seven-meter-high walls that still stand tall despite centuries of wear and tear.

If you’re interested in history or simply looking for something unique to do in Fort William, be sure to add Old Inverlochy Castle to your itinerary. Whether you’re exploring on your own or taking part in one of the guided tours available onsite, there’s plenty to discover at this remarkable landmark.

9. Statue of Donald Cameron

The Statue of Donald Cameron is a striking monument located in Fort William that celebrates the life of an important figure from Scottish history. The statue stands tall and proud, overlooking the town from its prominent position atop a hill.

Donald Cameron was a key member of Clan Cameron, one of Scotland’s most powerful and influential clans. He fought bravely for his country during the Jacobite Rising in 1745, earning him great respect from his fellow Scotsmen.

The monument portrays Cameron holding aloft his sword as if ready for battle, symbolizing both his strength and determination in defending Scotland’s freedom.

Visitors to Fort William can take in this impressive statue while enjoying stunning views over the surrounding landscape. It serves as a reminder of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage and its people’s resilience in times of strife.

Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for an inspiring sight to visit during your stay in Fort William, be sure not to miss this magnificent statue!

10. Steall Waterfall

There you have it, the top 10 things to do in Fort William! From exploring ancient castles and museums to taking in breath-taking views of waterfalls and mountains, there is no shortage of activities for every type of traveller.

As our final recommendation, we highly suggest visiting the stunning Steall Waterfall. The hike to the waterfall can be challenging but once you arrive at its base, you’ll see that it was worth every step. The cascading water surrounded by beautiful scenery will leave you feeling peaceful and rejuvenated.

With so many wonderful attractions to choose from, Fort William is truly a gem in Scotland’s crown. Whether you are looking for adventure or just some peace and quiet among scenic landscapes, this town has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip!