There are so many things that you can see and do in Fort William. The cultural heritage sites, the gorgeous historical attractions, and the breathtaking landscapes full of rare wildlife, and the exciting outdoor activities are just some of the options you have to create a fully packed itinerary. Since there are so many things to consider, it is easy to get confused in locking down the specific ones to prioritize. To help you get going, scroll down below for our recommendations of the best things to do in Fort William, UK. This is going to save you a lot of time when considering the must-visit and must-have experiences.
1. Experience a one-of-a-kind train adventure at The Jacobite Steam Train
Book your seats on The Jacobite Steam Train / Hogwarts Express now! https://www.jacobitetrail.co.uk/the-jacobite-train
Posted by The Jacobite Trail on Friday, October 22, 2021
The Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Harry Potter Steam Train and Hogwarts Express, is the perfect way to add a touch of enchantment to your next vacation. Due to the fact that the journey will go around the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you will have the opportunity to experience one of the most memorable scenes from Harry Potter. Since 1984, it has been operating during the summer season, covering a 84 miles (135.18 kilometers) round trip, going from Fort William to Mallaig with a stop of 1.5 hours before returning.
You will be able to view stunning landscapes such as Loch Eil, River Morar, Loch Nevis, and Arisaig while relaxing in the comfort and luxury of your transportation, which will undoubtedly contribute to the overall impact of this being a lifetime event.
The Jacobite Steam Train / Hogwarts Express
Address: Fort William Travel Centre, MacFarlane Way, Fort William PH33 6EN, United Kingdom
Website: The Jacobite Steam Train / Hogwarts Express
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: From 39.78 USD
2. Explore the breathtaking natural features at Lochaber Geopark
Spend an enjoyable getaway in the great outdoors at Lochaber Geopark, where you can watch some of the world’s most impressive natural features, including some of the highest peaks and shallowest lochs such as Loch Morar. Rock Routes and Lochaber Geotrails provide a fun and educational way to discover the area’s natural beauty, with informational boards and a leaflet to help you along the way.
Due to many geologists regularly involved in Geopark activities, this excursion is not just for fun and adventure but also offers academic knowledge. Head to the Visitor Centre on High Street in Fort William to unwind after a long journey; it houses fascinating displays of rocks and minerals and fun activities for kids, including puzzles and coloring pages, ensuring everyone will have a great time here.
Lochaber Geopark
Address: 55A High St, Fort William PH33 6DH, United Kingdom
Website: Lochaber Geopark
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free entry
3. Marvel at the Jacobite exhibits at West Highland Museum
West Highland Museum is known worldwide for its Jacobite exhibits. It is a great place to visit for a unique chance to see these exhibits and also learn about the marvelous local history collection that dates back to the archeological times. Additionally, you will find incredible collections that tell the rough past West Highlands had to endure including some fascinating artifacts from a treasure Spanish ship that wrecked centuries ago.
West Highland Museum
Address: Cameron Square, Fort William PH33 6AJ, United Kingdom
Website: West Highland Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 2pm (closed from Sat - Mon)
Price: Free
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4. Appreciate the engineering prowess at Neptune’s Staircase
Neptune’s Staircase is a magnificent display of engineering in a very small village called Banavie. It features a series of locks that go over a quarter of a mile before raising the canal by an altitude of 19 meters (62 feet) to pave way for boats to travel up and down the canal. Even though the structure was constructed during the early 19th century, it still holds the record for being the longest staircase lock in Britain. It is a fascinating system that you will love watching over and over again.
Neptune's Staircase
Address: Banavie, Fort William PH33 7NG, United Kingdom
Opening hours: 24 hours
Price: Free
5. Walk down memory lane at Old Inverlochy Castle
A visit to Scotland will never be complete without a tour of the numerous castles dotting its landscapes. When in Fort William, one castle that you must visit is Old Inverlochy Castle. It currently stands as a mere ruin but it is still possible to see the unimaginable scale of grandeur it had during its heydays. The castle was constructed in the late 13th century and currently serves as a melting pot of history and culture that you will discover as you go through the informative boards stationed in several sections throughout the castle.
Old Inverlochy Castle
Address: Fort William PH33 6TF, United Kingdom
Website: Old Inverlochy Castle
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Tour one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland
Scotland has its name on the world map when it comes to the production of some of the world’s finest whiskeys and other alcoholic drinks. Ben Nevis Distillery happens to be among the oldest licensed distilleries in the country. It was established in 1825 and sits majestically at the imposing foothills of Ben Nevis. You will appreciate its rich history and majesty through a guided tour of the entire facility, a video experience, and a tasting session for interested visitors aged 18 years or older.
Ben Nevis Distillery
Address: Lochy Bridge, Fort William PH33 6TJ, United Kingdom
Website: Ben Nevis Distillery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed Sat & Sun)
7. Get exciting history lessons at Old Fort
Old Fort was a strategic stronghold constructed in 1654 by General George Monck. It is located at the confluence of two lakes and along the main supply route that was used by both the military and civilians. Though little now remains of the fort in terms of structure, it is still rich in history and culture, especially the role it played during the infamous Glen Coe Massacre of 1692. If you love military history, then a visit to this fort is one you must never miss when you travel to Fort William.
Old Fort
Address: 19 Middle St, Fort William PH33 6GD, United Kingdom
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Appreciate the diversity in geology at Treasures of the Earth Museum
If you love geology, then you will find Treasures of the Earth Museum to be among the most fascinating museums you have ever been to. This is where you find numerous private collections of fossils, gemstones, and crystals that are not only rare but also worth fortunes. It is also one of the few places on earth where you will find fossilized dinosaur skull. Once you are done with your exploration of the museum, you can pass by the gift shop and sample a wide array of gemstones, fossils, and jewelry to carry back home as souvenirs.
Treasures of the Earth
Address: Corpach, Fort William PH33 7JL, United Kingdom
Website: Treasures of the Earth
Opening hours: 10am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 6 GBP (8 USD per adult); 4 GBP (5 USD per child)
9. Conquer your fear of heights at Three Wise Monkeys Climbing Center
This is for the brave and adrenalin junkies. It is basically an indoor rock climbing center where you get to test your rock climbing skills in a safe and controlled environment. If you think you may possess the skills of a monkey when it comes to climbing, then this is an adventure you must never miss. To complement your climbing experience, the center also offers sports massage, yoga classes, a café, and much more!
3 Wise Monkeys Climbing Centre
Address: Fassifern Rd, Fort William PH33 6QX, United Kingdom
Website: 3 Wise Monkeys Climbing Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 8pm
10. Hike your way to the majestic Steall Waterfall
Steall Waterfall is regarded as one of the best short walks in the entire country. It is a majestic walk that will take you through a gorge and narrow rocky paths as you make your way to the second-highest waterfall in Scotland. During the short walk, your ears will be pleasantly treated to the calming sounds of the mountain breeze and the rushing waters, while your eyes will not have enough of the gorgeous landscapes around. If you are planning for this, then be sure to have the proper hiking attire, especially hiking boots.
Steall Waterfall
Address: Old Military Rd, Fort William PH33 6SY, United Kingdom
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
11. Visit the quaint St. Andrew’s Church
This is one you can easily miss due to its location on the backstreets, and it is surrounded by a myriad of stores. The historic building may look simple compared to other establishments here, but it has details that will leave you in awe. So take time and look at the elaborate ceiling bosses as well as the detailing present on the organ’s pipes. While here, don’t miss the Caen stone altar, an impressive structure that stands out in the entire church.
Saint Andrew's Church
Address: 6 High St, Fort William PH33 6AS, United Kingdom
Website: Saint Andrew’s Church
Price: Free
12. Enjoy a refreshing ale at Grog & Gruel Bar
This is a traditional alehouse and restaurant with a warm and friendly atmosphere to make you enjoy every minute you spend inside. It is a great place to grab a drink after a day of hopping from one attraction to another. Also, it is a great spot for sampling a wide range of ales, malt whiskies, and some of the local delicacies.
The Grog & Gruel
Address: 66 High St, Fort William PH33 6AD, United Kingdom
Website: The Grog & Gruel
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 12am; Sun: 12:30pm - 12am
Make beautiful memories in Fort Williams
Choose some of these best things to do in Fort William, UK as part of your itinerary and have the chance to create beautiful and lasting memories of your trip. Scotland is a great country, so don’t hold back when checking out Fort William’s top attractions.
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