Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, towering at 1,345 metres (4,413 feet). Located just outside Fort William, it attracts hikers, climbers, and nature lovers from around the world. The mountain offers two main routes: the Mountain Track (also known as the Tourist Route), suitable for fit beginners, and the more challenging Carn Mor Dearg Arête for experienced climbers.
The summit, often snow-capped, provides spectacular views across the Highlands, especially on a clear day. Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic landscapes, rugged terrain, and diverse wildlife. While the climb can take 7-9 hours round-trip, the sense of achievement at the top is well worth it.
Ben Nevis is also famous for its North Face, a mecca for rock and ice climbers. In winter, it becomes one of the UK’s top destinations for ice climbing and winter mountaineering. The mountain’s geological features—remnants of an ancient volcano—add to its allure.
Nearby, the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre offers information about routes, safety advice, and local ecology. Visitors not planning to hike can enjoy the beautiful Glen Nevis valley at the foot of the mountain, ideal for gentler walks and scenic picnics.
A trip to Fort William wouldn’t be complete without at least seeing Ben Nevis. Whether you conquer its peak or admire it from below, this iconic mountain defines the landscape and spirit of the area.
Neptune’s Staircase is a remarkable feat of 19th-century engineering located on the Caledonian Canal near Fort William. This impressive staircase lock system comprises eight locks and raises boats a total of 19 metres (62 feet) over a quarter of a mile. Built by famed engineer Thomas Telford in the early 1800s, it remains the longest staircase lock in the United Kingdom.
Watching boats pass through the locks is a fascinating experience. It can take over 90 minutes for a boat to navigate the full staircase, and visitors can stroll alongside to witness the intricate mechanism in action. The site is popular with photographers, walkers, and families.
Surrounded by the beautiful backdrop of Ben Nevis and the surrounding hills, Neptune’s Staircase also offers excellent views and photo opportunities. There’s a towpath suitable for walking and cycling, with benches along the route to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Nearby, you’ll find a café and visitor information boards that delve into the canal’s history.
Neptune’s Staircase is part of the Caledonian Canal, which links the east and west coasts of Scotland. This waterway was originally designed to help ships avoid the treacherous waters around the north coast. Today, it's a scenic route for leisure boats and kayakers.
For a tranquil and historically rich excursion near Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase is a must-visit. It perfectly blends industrial heritage with natural beauty, and its peaceful surroundings make it a great place to unwind.
The West Highland Museum in Fort William offers a captivating look into the history and culture of the Scottish Highlands. Founded in 1922, this small but rich museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts, documents, and displays covering local heritage from ancient times to the present.
One of the museum’s key strengths is its collection related to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rebellion. Visitors can view personal items, weapons, and clothing from this pivotal period in Scottish history. The museum also showcases exhibits on clan life, military history, traditional Highland dress, and local archaeology.
Housed in a historic building in the town centre, the museum has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Entry is free, making it accessible for all, though donations are appreciated. Informative displays and artefacts are presented in an engaging and often hands-on manner, making it suitable for families and school groups.
Another highlight includes items related to the Commandos, who trained in the area during World War II. The museum honours their bravery and offers insights into Fort William’s strategic importance during wartime.
The West Highland Museum is run by volunteers who are passionate about preserving and sharing Highland heritage. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, often happy to answer questions or offer further historical context.
For anyone visiting Fort William, this museum offers a deeper understanding of the region’s complex and fascinating past. It’s a perfect rainy-day activity and a great complement to the area’s outdoor attractions.
Often referred to as the “Harry Potter train,” the Jacobite Steam Train is one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. Operating from Fort William to Mallaig, the train passes through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Scottish Highlands, including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films.
The journey lasts about two hours each way and travels 84 miles round trip. Along the route, passengers are treated to stunning views of lochs, mountains, and remote Highland villages. Key sights include Loch Eil, Arisaig, and the silver sands of Morar. The highlight for many is crossing the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct, with a stop at Glenfinnan Station where you can explore a small museum.
The train itself is a vintage marvel, featuring restored carriages and a classic steam engine. Inside, the atmosphere is nostalgic and cosy, with options for standard or first-class seating. First-class passengers can enjoy afternoon tea as the Highlands roll by outside the window.
Running from April to October, the Jacobite Steam Train is extremely popular, and advance booking is highly recommended. Even for those not riding the train, watching it pass by—especially at Glenfinnan—is a memorable experience.
This attraction appeals to train enthusiasts, families, and Harry Potter fans alike. It’s a magical way to explore the Highland landscape and a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern comfort and hospitality.
Glen Nevis is a breathtaking valley located at the foot of Ben Nevis, offering some of the most scenic and accessible hiking in the Scottish Highlands. One of its crown jewels is Steall Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Scotland, cascading 120 metres (393 feet) down a dramatic rock face.
The walk to Steall Falls is an adventure in itself. It begins from a small car park at the end of Glen Nevis road and follows a rocky but manageable trail through a narrow gorge known as Nevis Gorge. The path winds through ancient woodland and opens up to a lush meadow, where the falls come into view.
A highlight for many is the wire bridge crossing the river just before the falls—a fun challenge for the brave. Even without crossing, the views of the waterfall and surrounding mountains are spectacular. Photographers and nature lovers will find plenty to admire, from moss-covered boulders to Highland flora and fauna.
Glen Nevis is also a popular filming location, with scenes from Braveheart and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire shot in the area. The surrounding peaks, waterfalls, and rivers create a cinematic setting that feels far from the bustle of everyday life.
With options for both short walks and more challenging hikes, Glen Nevis suits visitors of all abilities. Whether you're there for a gentle stroll or an ambitious trek, the valley delivers unforgettable views and a peaceful connection with nature.
