Name
Fort William
Description
Nearby attractions
Neptune's StaircaseBen Nevis Visitor CentreOld Inverlochy CastleTreasures of the EarthBen Nevis DistilleryJacobite Steam TrainWest Highland MuseumThe Original End of the West Highland Way3 Wise Monkeys Climbing CentreSt Andrew's ChurchNearby restaurants
The Great Glen - JD WetherspoonBen Nevis BarThe Grog & GruelThe Crofter Bar and RestaurantThe GeographerThe Tavern RestaurantThe WildcatCrannog at Garrison WestThe LochyCrannog Seafood RestaurantNearby localities
City of EdinburghAberdeen CityDunfermlineCumbernauldSouth QueensferryBurntislandForfarShottsViewparkAnstrutherRelated posts
Keywords
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Basic Info
Fort William
Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom
Ratings & Description
Info
attractions: Neptune's Staircase, Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, Old Inverlochy Castle, Treasures of the Earth, Ben Nevis Distillery, Jacobite Steam Train, West Highland Museum, The Original End of the West Highland Way, 3 Wise Monkeys Climbing Centre, St Andrew's Church, restaurants: The Great Glen - JD Wetherspoon, Ben Nevis Bar, The Grog & Gruel, The Crofter Bar and Restaurant, The Geographer, The Tavern Restaurant, The Wildcat, Crannog at Garrison West, The Lochy, Crannog Seafood Restaurant
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Reviews
Things to Do in Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom - Fort William Attractions & Activities
Attractions of Fort William
Neptune's Staircase
Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
Old Inverlochy Castle
Treasures of the Earth
Ben Nevis Distillery
Jacobite Steam Train
West Highland Museum
The Original End of the West Highland Way
3 Wise Monkeys Climbing Centre
St Andrew's Church
Neptune's Staircase
4.5
(2.3K)
Open until 12:00 AM
Click for details
Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
4.3
(1.5K)
Closed
Click for details
Old Inverlochy Castle
4.1
(970)
Open 24 hours
Click for details
Treasures of the Earth
4.4
(553)
Closed
Click for details
Things to do nearby
Pose in Scottish Highlands for a pro photographer
Fri, Oct 10 • 2:00 PM
Glencoe, PH49 4HY, United Kingdom
View details
Seal Island Cruise Tour
Fri, Oct 10 • 11:30 AM
Fort William, PH33 6DB
View details
Restaurants of Fort William
The Great Glen - JD Wetherspoon
Ben Nevis Bar
The Grog & Gruel
The Crofter Bar and Restaurant
The Geographer
The Tavern Restaurant
The Wildcat
Crannog at Garrison West
The Lochy
Crannog Seafood Restaurant
The Great Glen - JD Wetherspoon
4.0
(2K)
$
Closed
Click for details
Ben Nevis Bar
4.3
(1.5K)
$$
Closed
Click for details
The Grog & Gruel
4.1
(1.4K)
$$
Closed
Click for details
The Crofter Bar and Restaurant
4.4
(1.3K)
$
Closed
Click for details
Neptune's Staircase
Neptune's Staircase
4.5
Sundaresan ViswanathanSundaresan Viswanathan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Neptune’s Staircase – Scotland’s Engineering Gem in Fort William
Neptune’s Staircase is one of the most fascinating engineering sights I’ve seen in the Highlands. Located in Banavie, just outside Fort William, this set of eight lock gates is part of the historic Caledonian Canal and was designed by the famous engineer Thomas Telford in the early 1800s. The locks stretch over a quarter-mile and lift boats nearly 20 meters (64 ft) — it’s the longest staircase lock in Britain and still fully operational!
It’s absolutely worth a stop whether you’re driving, cycling, or staying nearby. Watching boats pass through the locks is surprisingly peaceful and mesmerizing. The process takes around 90 minutes per boat, and it’s amazing to see how smoothly it all runs thanks to the modern hydraulic systems. You can walk the entire stretch of the staircase, and the views of Ben Nevis in the distance are spectacular, especially on a clear day.
The towpath is well-maintained and ideal for a scenic walk or bike ride. You’ll also see the Jacobite Steam Train cross the canal on a nearby swing bridge — a great photo opportunity! There are free parking spots, rest areas, and cafés nearby for a relaxing afternoon.
📸 Photo tip: Stand on the upper side of the lock gates to capture boats and Ben Nevis in the same frame.
Highly recommended for families, photographers, engineers, and history lovers. Free to visit and great for all ages!
martyn noblemartyn noble
Well worth a visit to this master piece of engineering. Grown up's and children will love it. The place is clean and tidy with loads of parking. The surrounding area has the most wonderful scenery you can imagine.
Near by shopping at Fort William with its lovely sea front harbour, and the working fishing port of Mallaig with lovey, shops,cafes and restaurants.
From Mallaig you can take a short ferry over to Inverie this remote section of the west coast has 70 people or so who live in this lovely setting with very few luxuries except the best luxury of them all being surround by it's (Nature).
Photo's show Parts of Neptune's staircase surrounding canal and mountains, also the most remote pub I have seen freshly renovated, the Inverie harbour and boat trip with it's scenery. We also managed to get a photo of the Jacobite steam train on journey back to Fort William from Mallaig. So lots to do and see including the Ben Nevis range of glorious mountains.
Graham KellyGraham Kelly
An interesting bit of engineering history on the Caledonian Canal. The locks are still all operated by lock masters although it has long since been upgraded to hydraulics so they don't physically open the gates as they once did.
It takes over an hour for a boat to navigate through the staircase and you really want to see it in operation to appreciate it. You don't need to watch the whole process obviously.
It's important to say there's not much else here. There was talk of a visitor centre being built but this was either not built yet, not obvious, or not open when I visited. There are a couple of cafes that open around 12pm if you want to sit and watch with a coffee. Also, the aerial views you may have seen online are not available on foot so photos are a little trickier because of the angle of hill. Parking is easy with a large carpark at the bottom of the staircase.
Marie DaviesMarie Davies
A lovely place to walk and to watch boats progressing through the locks with the aid of professional lock keepers, Barnaby and his team. We chatted to the sailors as they were going past. We watched large ocean going yachts passing through the locks and the swing bridge which was opened to let them all pass westward to the sea. We loved the relaxed vibe and the lovely views. Not all of the shops and cafes were open on the days we went which was a shame, it would be even better if they were. It was quite busy at the lower end, but was a lot quieter once you walked uphill to the top of the locks.
Warren BrooksWarren Brooks
A nice, interesting if straightforward walk. I'm used to canal locks from the multitude I've crossed paths with over the years. But these beasts are an impressive sight. If you like long easygoing walks or you have a bike it's an ideal spot to cover some distance and take in the views of Ben Nevis and some wildlife.
If you want a 30 minute powerwalk and to see some interesting engineering or take a photo... then you're in luck again! Because there's a big carpark right next to it and it's about 30 seconds walk from the big business you came here for.
Time it right and you'll see it in action too.
Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
4.3Hiking Area
Damian KurczykDamian Kurczyk
Ben Nevis Visitor Centre is an absolutely fantastic place and a perfect starting point for anyone planning to hike the highest peak in the UK. From the very beginning, you can see that everything is well-organized – there are clear information boards about the trails, weather conditions, and safety tips, as well as friendly staff who are happy to help with any questions.
We were incredibly lucky with the weather – the sky was almost completely clear from early morning, which allowed us to fully enjoy the stunning views all the way to the summit. The trail up Ben Nevis is definitely a challenge, but in such favorable conditions and with proper preparation, it was a real pleasure. The summit itself was breathtaking – the panoramic views were absolutely worth the effort and will stay with us for a long time.
After returning to the Visitor Centre, the biggest surprise was the café – we ordered coffee, and it turned out to be genuinely delicious. Maybe it was the exhaustion after the long hike, but it was honestly one of the best cups of coffee we've had in a while! There’s also a nice outdoor area where you can sit down, relax, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
The whole experience – from setting off at the Visitor Centre, reaching the summit, and ending the day with a great coffee – was truly special. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the mountains and appreciates good facilities and hospitality. Ben Nevis is an unforgettable adventure, and this centre makes it all the more enjoyable 👍💪👌
Michael HagmannMichael Hagmann
An Unmissable Highland Haven - Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
The Ben Nevis Visitor Centre is a crucial stop on the NC500 road trip, providing a deep-dive into the intriguing history, geology, and natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
A standout feature is the stunning viewing platform that offers breathtaking panoramas of Ben Nevis and the surrounding landscape. No matter the weather, the vistas are unforgettable and provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to your visit.
Parking is ample and conveniently located, facilitating an easy start to your exploration. The on-site facilities, including toilets, are clean, well-maintained, and easily accessible.
The staff deserve a special mention for their warm hospitality and extensive knowledge of the area. They were ready to answer any queries and offer insider tips on making the most of our Ben Nevis experience.
In addition, the centre is located at the start of the walking trail, making it an excellent starting point for those who wish to venture further and immerse themselves in the highland scenery.
Overall, the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre offers a rich, immersive experience for anyone journeying along the NC500. It perfectly encapsulates the awe-inspiring beauty and captivating history of the Scottish Highlands.
The facilities are also wheelchair accessible 😀
Waseem AmirWaseem Amir
Loved this place, just a couple of miles from Fort William town, put it into your maps to get to this place. £4 parking all day & you get to climb the highest mountain in the UK with the most amazing views you will ever see in your life, that's a promise.
Oh Ben Nevis, you are so beautiful yet so cruel
My legs are completely obliterated
You allowed me to hike & take in your beauty along the way
How did I know I was slowly having the energy sapped out of me
I drank from your spring, it tasted like heaven
I saw many glens & lakes along the way
Those ravens that followed me up stood majestic on your brow
How can you be so cruel?
I had no energy but wanted to see every inch of your magnificence
My heart rate increased with every gasp of your fresh mountain air
Those steps to heaven almost led to hell with every step I took
How can you be so cruel?
Your summit, is this really heaven?
So serene, peaceful with clouds all around
No time to waste, marching down on a mission
You took every thing out of me Ben Nevis
I had no breath, no energy, no legs yet you forgave me & let me go
What I saw with these eyes is hard to explain
You are just simply the most beautiful thing I have ever seen
If there is a next time Ben Nevis, please dont be so cruel.
Florin SanduFlorin Sandu
I went to Ben nevis on a Sunday 25th Aug, when it was raining, windy and foggy as well... At the top I couldn't see anything, surroundings, but I'll do it again other times in better weather most definitely! The road to the top was very hard and the weather made it even harder, and again, strong, very strong winds ...there are many waterfalls to pass through so make sure you have hiking equipment and waterproof and windproof shoes, socks, trousers and a jacket... hiking sticks will help you more when you come down and you're tired, and will protect your ankles, no matter the age. I made the whole trip to the top and back in 6 hours and 48 minutes exactly, so it's no joke, challenging, especially when the whole day was raining. Take just some protein bars and a bit of water, no heavy food to be eaten before.
Fiaz ShahFiaz Shah
The start of your epic ascent up the Venomous Mountin. Plenty of parking available, however this will quickly fill up.
Current prices as of September 2023 are £2 for 1hr and £8 for the whole day. Contactless is accepted.
The Visitor centre supposedly offers a wealth of information, however this was, for reasons unknown, closed on the day.
Toilets are avaliable, albeit for limited time 08:00 - 16:00. Toilets are clean and well stocked.
As always, you must prepare for the hike. Don't be fooled my murmers of a tourist track. Its a gruelling and arduous climb right the way up. Preparing your body in the weeks before will certainly help, and being properly equipped on the day will make all the difference.
Most important of all, enjoy yourself and take in the magnificent Ben Nevis range.
Old Inverlochy Castle
Old Inverlochy Castle
4.1Castle
highlands2hammockshighlands2hammocks
✨5 Things to do in Fort William ✨
(SAVE for later)
Steall Falls - A very impressive waterfall located in Glen Nevis. It is Scotland's second-highest waterfall, and also the second highest in the UK, with a single drop of 120 metres. If you want to get a closer look at the waterfall, you will need to cross Steall Bridge, which has 3 wires, 1 to walk along and 2 for holding onto. The bridge is roughly about 10ft above the water and roughly 20ft in length.
Glen Nevis - Glen Nevis is one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, which sits at the bottom of Ben Nevis, the highest and most popular mountain in the UK. It is extremely picturesque and peaceful.
Glenfinnan Viaduct - One of Scotland’s most iconic sights attracting thousands of visitors from around the world ever year! The Glenfinnan Viaduct makes an appearance in some of the Harry Potter films and during the peak season the steam train will pass throughout the day so make sure you’ve got your camera at the ready!
Corpach Shipwreck - The Corpach Shipwreck is also known as the Old Boat of Caol. Built in 1975, she was an old fishing vessel that was moored at Kinlochleven Pier in 2001. Unfortunately in 2011, a heavy storm caused a chain to fail and she ran aground and has been there ever since.
Old Inverlochy Castle - Inverlochy Castle was built between 1270–1280. It now sits as a ruin on the banks of River Lochy. You can find it beside the Highland Soap Factory Visitor Centre.
Have you been to any of these sights?
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Domingo ochoDomingo ocho
Old inverlochy is a 13th century castle ruin. It has four towers, a wall, a land gate, as well as a water gate. Though it is a ruin it is currently getting some restoration work. It is mainly visible on the one of the towers and the wall adjacent to it.
Due to the restoration as well as the dangers of falling rocks, the castle is currently fenced off. Even then, it was a nice walk around it.
It was fascinating to think about how it must have looked like at the time it was inhabited. There are lots of small details that may not seem too significant, but could have been very important to the security of the castle.
An example of this are the small doors on the sides of each wall, which would seem impractical in terms of defense. If you look closer you would see small holes lining the walls with the doors. These could have held up a wooden defences gallery, or "hoardings".
I really recommend visiting the castle. I also recommend looking into it's history as well, as every castle has a unique and fascinating story. It's a very peaceful place for one intended to defend against enemy armies, and I really like that, I think you would too!
Tomo 08sweTomo 08swe
A nice small old ruin thats's worth a visit if you're passning by.
Basiclly just a shell left but still nice to wonder around exploring.
One of many nice old ruins that I passed by during my roadtrip, in England, Wales and Scotland back in 2001, that I took time to visit and enjoyed exploring.
For me it was the highlight of the trip when travelling around the UK to see all these old castles and fortifications everywhere in diffrent designs and sizes.
Jim TaylorJim Taylor
A stunning historical spot not far from Fort William. Unfortunately you can't actually walk through the ruins as it's all fenced off. Health & safely problems due to falling masonry. Well worth a walk round the outside, in the lovely rural setting, a stunning view of the river & for those Harry potter fans or steam fanatics like myself. There's a brilliant spot for filming "The Jacobite" crossing the nearby bridge. See photos.
C “Tornadoman” KellyC “Tornadoman” Kelly
Visited while walking the geln way walk sad to see it fenced off but understandable with the fact that there's masonry that's lose and could fall, bike the Scotiabank castle afforities need to speak to the Welsh as the Welsh have it down as a art form,
But overall nice to see that there's effort to try and sort it out and make it safe
Would of been ni e to be able to see more and explore more but at the moment not safe
