Home to the highest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis, Fort William is a magnet for adventurers. Beyond its rugged peaks, it is also one of the largest towns in the Scottish Highlands and the perfect base for exploring this dramatic region. Whether you are here for the challenge of a mountain climb, to ride the legendary steam train, or to enjoy the culture, food and scenery, Fort William has plenty to offer.
I first visited Fort William in October 2018 with the sole purpose of climbing Ben Nevis. That short trip left little time for sightseeing, but I still managed to fit in a few highlights. On my most recent trip, we flew into Glasgow, picked up a hire car, and stayed overnight before heading north the next morning. The drive from Glasgow to Fort William takes just under three hours, but we made a lovely stop at Loch Lomond, in the village of Luss about 40 minutes out of Glasgow, for coffee and a chance to take in the scenery.
Here’s everything we managed to fit in.
Where to stay in Fort William
We stayed in this cosy little cottage called The Old Byre, situated near the foot of Ben Nevis. It had access to several walking routes, Nevis Range and Fort William itself. With parking on site, it was perfectly located for local shops and amenities while still feeling like a tranquil Highland getaway. Little Harry Potter touches and generous welcome gifts made it extra special.
1. Climb Ben Nevis
Standing at 1,345 metres above sea level, Ben Nevis is Britain’s tallest mountain. Its summit is the collapsed dome of an ancient volcano, and you can still find the ruins of a weather observatory that was staffed between 1883 and 1904. The climb is both mentally and physically demanding, but the views from the top, when the clouds clear, are unforgettable. Temperatures at the summit can plunge even in summer, so it is essential to bring warm clothing, waterproofs, and plenty of water.
If you want something easier, a shorter one-hour route begins at the Ben Nevis Inn, a welcoming spot with hearty food, live music, and sweeping views right at the base of the mountain. Even if you are not climbing, it is worth visiting for lunch or to soak up the atmosphere.
Click here for some top tips to climb Britain’s highest mountain.
Ben Nevis Summit, Fort William, Scotland
2. Ride the Nevis Range Gondola
For a more relaxed way to experience Highland views, the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola offers a memorable ride. Located about 15 minutes north of Fort William on the A82, the gondola carries you from the base station at 100 metres to 650 metres on the slopes of Aonach Mòr. The ride takes around 15 minutes each way in a closed six-seat cabin and is open daily, though always subject to weather.
At the top you will find short walking routes such as the Sgurr Finnisg-aig trail (about 45 minutes return) and Meall Beag (about an hour return), along with a café, gift shop and panoramic viewpoints over Loch Linnhe, the Great Glen and even the Hebrides on a clear day.
Tickets cost about £27.50 for adults and £14.95 for children, with family passes and multi-day tickets available. Parking at the base station is £5 per day. Dogs are allowed if kept on a lead, and the gondolas are wheelchair accessible.
3. Tour Ben Nevis Distillery
Founded in 1825, the Ben Nevis Distillery is one of the oldest in Scotland. Its water source comes directly from the mountain, and while it is now owned by Japanese company, whisky is still produced in Fort William using traditional methods.
Tours must be booked in advance via email and finish with a whisky tasting. There are two options: the standard, which includes two whiskies, and the classic, which includes four. If you are driving, miniature bottles are provided to take away. When we visited, the distillery was celebrating its 200th birthday, and we were given a complimentary whisky glass as a souvenir. The tour involves an outdoor section, so dress accordingly. Gift packs of four miniatures are also sold on the Jacobite Steam Train.
4. Pop into the Highland Soap Company
Just a short drive from the distillery is the Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre. Here you can watch the soap being made, browse the shop and enjoy the café. Workshops are also available where you can make your own soap using natural ingredients. It is a relaxing stop and a good contrast to the more adventurous activities in the area.
5. Visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks. Its sweeping arches were made world-famous by the Harry Potter films, where it carried the Hogwarts Express across the Highlands. The viaduct is a short drive from Fort William and worth seeing even if you are not a Harry Potter fan.
If you want to see the Jacobite Steam Train cross the viaduct, time your visit for around 10.45 in the morning or 15.00 in the afternoon, though schedules can vary. The sound of the engine and the sight of the carriages curving over the arches is unforgettable. There is a well marked path to a viewpoint above the viaduct, reached via the main car park, which costs about £5 and can be paid with card.
6. The Jacobite Steam Train (The Hogwarts Express)
Fort William is the starting point for the Jacobite Steam Train, often called the Hogwarts Express thanks to its role in the Harry Potter films. The journey runs to Mallaig and is considered one of the most scenic railway rides in the world. We had tickets during our most recent trip, though our first attempt was cancelled due to Storm Amy. Fortunately we managed to travel the following day and it was a true highlight.
You can read about my full Jacobite experience here.
7. Corpach Wreck
The Corpach Wreck, officially named The Golden Harvest and later MV Dayspring, was driven ashore in 2011 during a storm. It remains beached on the shore of Loch Linnhe, slowly decaying, and has become one of the most photographed spots in the area thanks to its dramatic setting with Ben Nevis in the background. It can be reached from the Corpach Canal car park with a short walk.
8. Glen Coe and the Three Sisters
A short drive south of Fort William lies Glen Coe, a valley famous for its history and scenery. The Three Sisters viewpoint is one of the most photographed in Scotland, with three towering ridges rising steeply from the valley floor. Glen Coe also featured in James Bond: Skyfall, when Bond drives through the glen with M, and several Harry Potter scenes were filmed here too.
9. Glen Etive
Branching off from the main A82 road through Glen Coe is the narrow single-track road into Glen Etive, a valley of wild beauty that feels untouched by time. The road winds for about 12 miles alongside the River Etive before reaching the head of Loch Etive.
The drive itself is stunning, with waterfalls, forested slopes and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. It is also famous as the location used in James Bond’s Skyfall (2012). The moody scenes where Bond and M stand beside the Aston Martin DB5 looking down the valley were filmed here, and ever since the spot has been known as the “Skyfall Road.”
The road is single track with passing places and can be busy in summer, so take your time. At the end there are no facilities, just the still waters of the loch and some of the best wild Highland scenery you will find anywhere. Deer are often seen grazing near the roadside, adding to the atmosphere.
10. Eilean na Moine
Further west on the A830 towards Mallaig lies Eilean na Moine, a small wooded island on Loch Eilt. It is best known to film fans as the location of Dumbledore’s grave in the Harry Potter series. The island can be seen from the Jacobite Steam Train as it passes, but you can also stop by car. From Fort William it is about 30 miles, or a 50 minute drive. Parking is limited to roadside lay-bys and the ground is often boggy, so boots are advised if you want to walk closer to the water’s edge.
11. Meet the Highland Cows
While exploring the area you may want to meet Scotland’s most iconic residents, the shaggy Highland cows or “coos.” Glen Nevis, just outside Fort William, is one of the best places to see them. Glen Nevis Holidays run guided walks to their fold of Highland cattle where you can learn about the breed and see them up close. The walk starts a short distance past the cattle grid on Glen Nevis Road and takes you through meadows with the cows grazing against the backdrop of Ben Nevis.
If you prefer something more informal, you can often spot Highland cows in fields along the road into Glen Nevis, or near the Ben Nevis Distillery where there is sometimes a small herd. A little further afield, Drumbuie Farm offers a “Highland Coo Afternoon Tea” experience which combines meeting the animals with a traditional Scottish treat. Wherever you see them, remember that these are large animals with horns, so keep a safe distance unless on an organised tour.<
Gretna Green
In the middle of the 18th-century, strict English laws around marriage led to the elopement of many English couples to Scotland – where marriage laws were more relaxed – to marry in haste and often in hot pursuit. On the main route from London into Scotland, Gretna Green was the first village, and The Blacksmith’s Shop the first building, that couples reached on entering. Scotland, and therefore became the venue for many a runaway wedding.
A visit to the famed Blacksmith’s Shop today will reward you with some fabulous shopping opportunities. And, you can still get married there today. (Hopefully, with less scandal). So if you’re making the drive to Scotland from England, you absolutely can’t miss a visit to Gretna Green’s Blacksmith Shop.
A (very) small snapshot of The Famous Blacksmith Shop at Gretna Green.
Final Thoughts
Between my 2018 and 2025 visits I have experienced both the adventure and the charm of Fort William. From climbing Ben Nevis and walking in Glen Coe to whisky tasting, soap making, shipwreck hunting and following Harry Potter filming locations, there is no shortage of things to do. Whether you want the challenge of a mountain, the thrill of the Jacobite Steam Train or the comfort of a cosy cottage in the Highlands, Fort William will leave you with memories that last. And do not forget to try the haggis, Irn Bru and tablet while you are there.
Fort William Travel Guide – FAQs
Where is Fort William located?
Fort William is in the western Scottish Highlands on the shores of Loch Linnhe. It lies at the foot of Ben Nevis and is surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.
How far is Fort William from Inverness?
Fort William is about 65 miles or 105 kilometres from Inverness. The drive takes around two hours along the A82.
How far is Fort William from Edinburgh?
Fort William is about 134 miles or 215 kilometres from Edinburgh. By car it takes around three and a half to four hours, depending on traffic. Train services are also available via Glasgow.
How far is Fort William from Glasgow?
Fort William is about 108 miles or 174 kilometres from Glasgow. The drive takes just over three hours.
What is Fort William known for?
Fort William is often called the outdoor capital of the UK. It is most famous as the gateway to Ben Nevis, but is also popular for hiking, mountain biking, whisky distilleries, the Jacobite Steam Train, and dramatic Highland scenery.
