trips from fort william

8 of the best day trips from Fort William, Scotland

Posted on Last updated: July 24, 2023

Eight great day trips from Fort William in the Scottish Highlands – from historic castles and canals to scenic trains and seaside towns – with details of how to get there by car or public transport.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

The town of Fort William is known as the adventure capital of the Scottish Highlands. You can climb Ben Nevis, hike the West Highland Way or take a boat trip on Loch Linnhe. But as well as exploring the town itself, Fort William’s transport links and selection of places to stay and eat also make it a good base for exploring the Scottish Highlands.

You can easily base yourself in Fort William and take trips out to places like Glencoe, Loch Ness or even the Isle of Skye. So here are eight of the top day trips from Fort William, with details of how to visit each place by car, by public transport or on a tour.

Map of day trips from Fort William

How to get around

The easiest way to explore the area around Fort William is by car, as it gives you the most flexibility to adjust your itinerary or stop off on the way if you see something interesting. But if you don’t have a car then it is still possible to take day trips from Fort William by public transport, using a combination or trains, buses and tours.

You can pick up a hire car from the nearest airports, which are Inverness (75 miles) or Glasgow (99 miles). Or you can hire a car when you get to Fort William, though supplies are limited (particularly if you want an automatic) so book well in advance.

Travelling by public transport takes a bit more planning, as although buses or trains link the main towns and villages, they don’t always run very frequently – and sometimes not at all on Sundays. Details of how to do each day trip are listed below. And you can double check timetables with Scotrail (trains) or CityLink and Shiel Buses (buses).

Glencoe’s dramatic landscapes are a favourite with film-makers and photographers. But the glen was also the site of one of Scottish history’s darker moments – the Glencoe Massacre. On 13 February 1692, 30 men, women and children from the MacDonald clan were murdered by government soldiers who they’d let stay in their homes.

You can find out about the Jacobites and the massacre at Glencoe Visitor Centre, where they’ve recreated a traditional house to show how the MacDonalds would’ve lived. There’s also a monument to the massacre in Glencoe village and the Glencoe Folk Museum.

If you have a car don’t miss the drive down the Glen Etive Road , as seen in James Bond film Skyfall . And Glencoe is great for walking, with plenty of short scenic routes like the 1.5-mile An Torr walk to Signal Rock, where it’s said the signal was sounded to start the massacre, and the 5-mile climb to the top of the Pap of Glencoe for panoramic views.

Read more: 13 things to do in Fort William and Glencoe

How to get there

By car : Glencoe village is 16 miles (25 minutes’ drive) south of Fort William along the A82, with views of Loch Linnhe and Loch Leven. The visitor centre is about another mile down the road from the village, and has a pay and display car park.

By public transport : Two bus routes link Fort William with Glencoe. CityLink 914/915/916 and Shiel Buses N44 services both stop at Glencoe Junction (for the village) and take 30 minutes. The CityLink service also stops at Glencoe Visitor Centre.

2. The Jacobite steam train

One of the most popular day trips from Fort William is the rail journey along the West Highland Line to Mallaig on board the Jacobite steam train – which Harry Potter fans might know better as the Hogwarts Express after it featured in the films.

The train uses vintage carriages, with a choice of First or Standard Class seats, and is hauled by an original steam locomotive. The journey is only 42 miles each way but takes its time to soak up the beautiful views along the way. From Fort William the train crosses the Caledonian Canal and curves around the arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

It then runs past lochs, mountain and forests, passing Arisaig – the most westerly railway station in Britain – and along the coast with views of the Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Skye. You then have a couple of hours to explore the port town of Mallaig, where you can take a wildlife-spotting boat tour, before heading back to Fort William.

Read more: A guide to Scotland’s Jacobite steam train

The Jacobite does a round trip from Fort William train station to Mallaig every day from April to October. There’s a morning service which departs at 10.15am, and an additional afternoon service between May and September which departs at 12.50 (14.40 on Saturdays). Both take around six hours, with 1 hour 45 minutes in Mallaig.

If you’re visiting in winter when the Jacobite isn’t running, you can also take a not-so-glamorous but just as scenic regular Scotrail train. It runs along the same stretch of the West Highland Line three to four times a day and takes 90 minutes.

3. Glenfinnan

The most famous view of the Jacobite steaming around the Glenfinnan Viaduct isn’t from the train but from the hillside above it. The viaduct was built at the end of the 20th century and has 21 arches stretching for 1000 feet above the River Finnan.

The train crosses over the viaduct around 11.00 and 15.15 for the morning service and 13.25 and 18.00 (15.15 and 19.45 on Saturdays) for the afternoon. Get there at least half an hour early to bag a spot on the hillside. Afterwards you can visit the Highland Railway Museum at Glenfinnan station or have a cup of tea in their dining carriage café.

Glenfinnan is also where you’ll find the Glenfinnan Monument, which was built in 1815 as a tribute to Bonnie Prince Charlie and those who died fighting for the Jacobite cause. You can climb up to the top of the monument where a statue of a lone Highlander looks out over Loch Shiel. Or visit the pretty waterside Church of St Mary and St Finnan.

By car : Glenfinnan is 17 miles (30 minutes’ drive) west of Fort William along the A830. Paid car parking is available at the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument Car Park (PH37 4LT), which is a short walk to the viaduct and monument.

By public transport : Trains from Fort William run to Glenfinnan in around 35 minutes. Or you can catch the Shiel Buses 500 service from Fort William, which stops at the end of the road to Glenfinnan train station, a 20-minute walk to the monument.

4. The Caledonian Canal

The Caledonian Canal runs for 60 miles between Fort William and Inverness. It follows a natural fault line and combines lochs with stretches of man-made canal, and was created by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford in 1822 as a trade route across the country.

Just outside Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase is canal’s most impressive landmark. It’s the longest staircase lock in the UK, with eight interconnected locks which allow ships to travel 19.5 metres up or down in just 450 metres. It’s all operated by hydraulics and is fascinating to watch, with each ship taking 90 minutes to travel through.

A boat trip along the canal takes longer than one day, but you can get a taste of the scenery by walking or cycling along the towpath while you watch the boats pass by.

By car : Neptune’s Staircase is in the village of Banavie, 3 miles (10 minutes’ drive) north of Fort William along the A830. Free parking is available at Banavie Locks Car Park.

By public transport : Banavie is 7 minutes by train from Fort William, or it’s on the route of Shiel Buses 500 service. You can also walk between the two along a 4-mile stretch of the Great Glen Way, a long-distance walk between Fort William and Inverness.

5. Loch Ness

At 22.5 miles long, a mile wide and 240 metres deep, Scotland’s best-known loch contains more water than all other lakes in England and Wales combined – and who knows what else lurks in the deep? A 1933 sighting started a monster obsession, but despite over 1000 sightings and a series of expeditions, the Loch Ness Monster is still a mystery.

The road to Loch Ness passes through Spean Bridge, where you can see the Commando Monument. Then once you reach Fort Augustus at the southern end of the loch you can take a boat trip with Cruise Loch Ness. You can also learn about clan life and weaponry at the Clansman Centre or visit the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre.

Or travel further up the west side of the loch to Drumnadrochit where you’ll find the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, with everything you could want to know about the loch and its resident monster, as well as the picturesque ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Read more: 12 great things to do in Loch Ness, Scotland

By car : Fort Augustus at the south end of Loch Ness is 32 miles (45 minutes’ drive) from Fort William. Or it’s around 50 miles to Drumnadrochit.

By public transport : The CityLink 919 bus service runs from Fort William to Fort Augustus (1 hour), Urquhart Castle and Drumnadrochit (1.5 hours).

The seaside town of Oban sits on a horseshoe bay on the Firth of Lorn, to the south of Fort William. It’s known as the ‘seafood capital of Scotland’ and is a great place to come for a feast of scallops, mussels, oysters, lobster, crab and langoustines.

Check out the view from McCaig’s Tower, built by wealthy banker John Stuart McCaig as a memorial to his family and to give work to local stonemasons. The planned tower and museum were never finished, leaving only the outer walls which look like a mini Scottish version of the Colosseum. But there are some lovely views from the gardens.

Oban is also home to the Oban Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest and smallest whisky distilleries, where you can do tours and tastings. Or if you have more than a day, you could use Oban as a jumping-off point to the Isles of Kerrera, Staffa, Iona and Mull.

By car : Oban is 44 miles (1 hour 10 minutes’ drive) south of Fort William via the A828, which runs along the shores of Loch Linnhe almost all the way.

By public transport : Oban is a bit of a challenge to reach by public transport from Fort William. The train takes 3.5 hours (with a change at Crianlarich).

The West Coast Motors 918 bus is quicker at just 90 minutes. But there are only two services a day, which are awkwardly timed so you’d get to Oban at 2pm and have to leave at 4pm – meaning you’d spend more time on the bus than you would in Oban! So it might be better suited to an overnight visit rather than a day trip from Fort William.

7. Eilean Donan Castle

A real Scottish icon, Eilean Donan Castle is said to be the most photographed castle in the country, and has featured on many postcards (and shortbread tins). It’s a popular stop-off on the way to the Isle of Skye but you can also visit on a day trip from Fort William.

Eilean Donan is located on a tiny island in a strategic position where three sea lochs come together. The first castle was built in the 13th century on the site of a Pictish fort. After years of damage and rebuilding, it was left in ruins by government forces after the Jacobite uprising. But in 1912 John MacRae-Gilstrap bought and spent 20 years restoring it.

The family still use the castle but part of it is open to the public. The stone bridge makes an imposing entrance, and inside you can visit rooms like the grand Banqueting Hall and see period furniture and artworks, Jacobite artefacts and weapons.

By car : Eilean Donan is 65 miles (1.5 hours’ drive) north of Fort William along the A82 and A87. There’s plenty of free parking around the visitor centre.

By public transport : CityLink 915/916 buses run from Fort William to Dornie, a few minutes’ walk from the castle, and take around 1 hour 45 minutes.

8. The Isle of Skye

Our final day trip is to the Isle of Skye. It’s the furthest away from Fort William and there’s a lot to see on the island. So you’ll only get a taste of it on a day trip and would ideally have a few days to spend exploring. But even a short trip to Skye is worth it to soak up some of its spectacular scenery of mountains, cliffs, waterfalls and moorland.

At the heart of the island is Skye’s compact capital Portree, a pastel-painted harbour town. From there you can take a popular 50-mile circular road trip to the north around the Trotternish Loop. Along the way you pass some of Skye’s major landmarks like the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, the Quiraing mountain range and magical Fairy Glen.

You could also explore the centre of the island where you’ll find the Fairy Pools waterfalls, Cuillin Mountains and Talisker Distillery. Or head south to visit Armadale Castle Gardens and the Museum of the Isles, which tells the story of Clan Donald.

Read more: Isle of Skye itinerary: The best of the island in 3 days

By car : You can reach Skye from Fort William either by ferry or across the Skye Bridge. The ferry runs from Mallaig, which is a 42-mile (1-hour) drive west of Fort William. The crossing to Armadale takes 30 minutes then it’s another hour’s drive to Portree.

Or you can drive north and across the bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh. It’s 108 miles to Portree from Fort William (2.5 hours’ drive). The bridge is slightly quicker as you don’t have to wait for the ferry. Or you could do one in each direction to get different views.

By public transport : CityLink 915/916 buses connect Fort William with Portree and take around 3 hours. But you wouldn’t be able to see much of the island from Portree if you only had one day as the local bus services are pretty limited.

A better option is to take a guided tour, which lets you see Skye’s main sights in a short time. There’s a day tour available from Invermoriston and another from Kyle of Lochals h , both of which you can get to using buses from Fort William.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Fort William?*

Save for later

You might also like

Highland highlights: 13 things to do in Fort William and Glencoe

Visiting the Isle of Raasay: A great day trip from the Isle of Skye

A weekend in Inverness, Scotland: 2-day Inverness itinerary

Kathryn Burrington

Monday 21st of November 2022

So many magical places! I've yet to explore Scotland but I dream of taking a campervan around this area one day. I'm not sure it will be next year but hopefully the year after! I'll be straight back here when I start planning. Your guides are fabulous.

Lucy Dodsworth

Tuesday 22nd of November 2022

Thank you! It would be a great place for a campervan trip, so much to see and lots of hidden-away spots to explore.

Your Ultimate Guide to Day Trips from Fort William

Looking for day trips from Fort William, Scotland?

We used Fort William as the base for our Scottish highlands adventure and took several day trips, which we will share with you.

We typically plan our trips so we move every three to five days. So when we plan our travel we look for our “base.” 

We chose Fort William as our Scottish Highlands base for its access to the Isle of Skye and the Jacobite Steam Train (the Harry Potter train). The town is also close to Inverness and Oban.

Read on for day trips from Fort William, and why the small town can make a great Scottish Highland hub for your family.

Is Fort William Worth Visiting

On the shores of Loch Linne, Fort William is the outdoor capital of the Highlands. Second only in size to Inverness, Fort William is an ideal base for those wanting to explore the area.

While it is more typical that people choose Fort William to hike Ben Nevis or explore Glencoe, we chose it because of its proximity to the Jacobite Steam Train. 

However, in addition to the train, we knew we wanted to spend a day exploring the Isle of Skye. And getting to Skye is tricky. Most people who come to this part of the Highlands have a car. But not us.

Travel by public transit is our thing. So we knew we needed to stay where we could also get a day tour to Skye. And that is why we chose Fort William.

Other Options in the Scottish Highlands than Fort William 

If Fort William is not your home, maybe because you are not taking the train or prefer to be closer to Skye. You can also stay in Mallaig, Inverness or Oban. Let’s first talk about the advantages of Mallaig.

Is Fort William Better Than Mallaig

Mallaig is the mainland town closest to Skye. It is also the end of the Jacobite Train. It takes about an hour to drive or 1.5 hours by train from Fort William to Skye. Ferries go daily from Mallaig to Skye.

From the ferry stop on Skye, there are public buses that pick you up at the ferry station and take you into Portree, the largest town on the Isle.

So in essence, both of the day trips that we were interested in centered on Skye: the Jacobite train done in reverse from Mallaig to Fort William and a day trip to Skye would have been possible out of Mallaig.

So why didn’t we choose it?

Mallaig is a lovely, little port town. However with only 600 people and limited accommodations, Mallaig did not have many options for apartment-style accommodations. It was also more expensive than Fort William.

Additionally, we stay in apartment-style accommodations so we can eat the majority of our meals out of home. And Mallaig just doesn’t have much in terms of groceries, just one small store. 

So Mallaig wasn’t for us. But I could see it working if we stayed in hotels and were comfortable eating out.

Mallaig is a quaint seaside town and for that, it would do nicely. 

Is Fort William Better Than Inverness

Another good option to stay in the Highlands is Inverness, especially if the Jacobite train is not on your list of things to do.

In addition to the ferry, Skye is connected to mainland Scotland through a large bridge. On our tour, we went by bridge to arrive and by ferry to come back to Fort William. 

There is daily service by bus from Inverness to Skye. However, it is important to note that while it only takes 2 hours to drive from Inverness, the bus takes closer to 4 hours.

So while the bus is an option if you are planning to stay on Skye, it is not very practical for a day trip. 

It is also important to note that the sites you want to see on Skye: Kilt Rock, the Fairy Glen and the Fairy Pools are spread out across the island.

So even if you can get to Skye by bus, you aren’t going to be able to see much in a few hours using their public bus system. Another reason why we hired a private tour. 

Is Fort William Better Than Oban

Choosing between fort william and oban for your stay.

Fort William is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re into hiking, climbing, or simply immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Fort William is your spot.

The town offers a range of accommodation options, from B&Bs to hotels, catering to various budgets. You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere with pubs and restaurants, perfect for winding down after a day of adventure.

On the other hand, if you crave a coastal experience with a side of maritime charm, Oban might be the better fit. Overlooking the Firth of Lorn, Oban is famous for its seafood, vibrant harbor, and proximity to the Western Isles.

Oban is a more lively town than Fort William with seafood restaurants, shops, and attractions like McCaig’s Tower. Choose Oban for a lively atmosphere and easy access to island-hopping adventures.

However, for us, Oban was too far from the Isle of Skye and the Jacobite train. If you want to do more island jumping to Mull and Iona then Oban is a better choice.

Your Guide to Day Trip from Fort William to The Isle of Skye

First of all, let me say that a tour from Fort William around the Isle of Skye is a full-day event. For us, it was around 12 hours. A few companies offer day tours to Skye from Fort William. 

Isle of Skye Tours from Fort William

We started by investigating Wow Scotland Tours. But they required us to navigate a separate bus to get to their pick-up spot. And in the end, the price was just slightly less than hiring a private driver for the three of us. If you are staying in Inverness, this could be a great company as they pick up and drop off in Inverness. 

Next, we reached out to Highlands Mini Tours , but Alastair was booked. So he directed us to a colleague of his, Christo Alonso of Looking4Taxi.

Now, it may sound a bit unusual to basically charter a taxi all day. But in addition to running a small taxi service in Fort William, Christo takes small groups on private tours of Skye. 

Originally from Spain, Christo has lived in Fort William for over a decade and was trained by Highlands Mini Tour to be a tour guide. We found him to be knowledgeable, accommodating, and lovely.

We recommend using Looking4Taxi. And the company has a video of what their tour to the Isle of Skye entails . 

Day Trip to the Isle of Skye: A Stop at Eilean Donan Castle

Any tour to Skye should take you first to Eilean Donan Castle. One of Scotland’s most iconic castles, Eilean Donan is situated on an island where three lochs meet, and the castle was used during the Jacobite rebellion. The castle’s role in the uprising led to its downfall.

The castle spent 200 years in ruin before it was refurbished in the 1930s. Fans of the 1986 film Highlander will also recognize Eilean Donan as the home seat of Clan MacLeod.

Day Trip to the Isle of Skye: Portree

After the castle, you will cross the bridge onto the Isle. The first stop is the town of Portree, the largest on the island.

In Portree, you can grab lunch or walk around to the many little shops. True to our travel style, we brought lunch with us. So we didn’t stay long in Portree but rather headed out to experience more of the island.

Other Beautiful Stops on Your Day Trip from Fort William to Skye

Island of Skye tours will take you around the island. From the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the Quiraig, depending on the amount of time, tours will take you to all the iconic places that make up Skye. 

There were so many reasons why we were glad we had a driver. The first was how insane the narrow roads on the island are. 

There is a ring road around the island, but to get to many of the locations, especially the Fairy Glen and the Quiraing, you have to traverse single-track roads.

And not only are there super narrow roads, but lots of people are attempting to navigate those roads with RVs, that they don’t typically drive. We came across an accident where two RVs had sideswiped each other. Yikes.

We also absolutely appreciated that at each of the stops, you have to pay for parking. You will find these pay stations throughout the Isle. The least time you can pay for is 3 hours, but most people just need 20 minutes. They definitely got you.

But with a tour, our driver was able to wait in the car saving that expense. We also didn’t need to worry about finding these locations. We just sat back and let him do the driving.

Best Stop on the Isle of Skye

While Kilt Rock was perhaps the most gorgeous, our favorite stop was the Fairy Glen.

Several of the places on the tour, the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing in particular, can and probably should be experienced by taking a longer hike. A day tour doesn’t allow for that if you want to see the whole of the island.

However, at the Fairy Glen, we got out for a short scramble through the Glen to experience the Castle Ewan, a very cool outcropping, and the stone circle.

We learned that there are a lot of myths and stories–from wizards to tourists, and of course, fairies– about who made the circles, but no one knows.

We love a good mystery. 

The Ferry from the Isle of Skye to Mallaig

After a very, very full day driving around the island with beautiful stops and short hikes, we ended the day taking the ferry from Skye to Mallaig. The wind was insane the day we were on the Isle so they canceled all but the last ferry. 

Tip: If you are navigating Skye by yourself, be sure to check the ferry feed throughout the day. Our tour guide said it cancels quite often. So be prepared.

In the summer, you also need to book your tickets in advance.

The Cost of the Private Tour from Fort William to the Isle of Skye

In June of 2022, The cost of the tour for all three of us was £330, which included the private transport, our tour guide’s expertise, and the ferry tickets.

We paid for tickets to Eilean Donan Castle separately.

One Last Stop When Returning to Fort William: The Glenfinnan Viaduct

On the way back from Mallaig to Fort William, our tour stopped so we could see the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. Featured in the Harry Potter movies, the viaduct is its own tourist stop.

We went by late in the evening after all the trains had passed by for the day so it was empty. If you want to get a good spot, you have to get to the stop several hours before the train passes. 

Speaking of the train….Our second-day trip was riding The Jacobite Train.

Your Guide to Day Trip from Fort William on The Jacobite Train

If you have some Harry Potter fans in your family, then this is a must-do experience. And even if you are not super fans (like us), the Jacobite Train is still an amazing experience. At 84 miles, the journey is through some of the most beautiful scenery of the Highlands. 

All Aboard the Jacobite Train

When we first arrived at the station, there was an announcement that due to a problem with the engine, we would not be going under steam and would be using a diesel engine instead. West Coast, the company that runs the Jacobite train, said it would be giving a 50% refund. But even at that clearly, there was some disappointment. 

However, about 20 minutes after we were set to go, the conductor announced we would instead wait for the morning steam train to return and use it to power us up to Mallaig. But we had to wait an hour or so for the engine to return.

In the end, we ran over to the grocery store got some snacks and drinks, and absolutely made the best of it. 

But the delay meant that our trip on the Harry Potter Steam train might be different than yours. First, the train was supposed to stop at the town of Glenfinnan but due to time, it did not. 

The journey is also supposed to include about 1.5 hours in Mallaig. However, given that we left Fort William nearly 1.5 late, it also just stopped briefly in Mallaig–about 30 minutes in total–and then headed back to Fort William.

We had seen Mallaig the day before as we came in from Skye so we were fine with the changes. 

We got the sense that what happened to us was pretty rare. I am sure you won’t run into the same issues. On the flip side, the extra hour allowed us to get some drinks and snacks at the grocery. We hadn’t realized you could bring your own treats before. And that was absolutely worth it.

So, pro tip if you do book a trip on the Jacobite train: pack a picnic (even beer and wine is allowed, if that’s your thing).

However, if you don’t have time to get snacks, there is a bar cart on the train. And we still got to cross that ever-famous viaduct.

The train also goes by the small island of Eilean Na Moine, which is Dumbledore’s final resting place. The island is digitally imposed on Loch Arkaig, another loch in the Highlands, but the trees are so completely distinct.

The Cost of the Jacobite Train

Standard return tickets for adults on The Jacobite are £65 for adults and £36 for children, 16 or under. In essence, our afternoon on the train was roughly half of our day tour to Skye.

While we enjoyed both trips, if budget were a constraint, we would recommend the day tour to Skye. Of everything we experienced in our two weeks in Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, Skye continued to be O’s favorite.

Even though it was a lot of driving and a long day, the scenery was spectacular. And we would now argue that no trip to the Scottish Highlands is complete without time on Skye.

Your Guide to Day Trip from Fort William to Inverness

Getting there.

Heading from Fort William to Inverness is a breeze, and you’ve got a couple of good options to get there.

By Car: If you’re up for a scenic drive, hop in your car, and you’ll reach Inverness in about 1.5 hours. The journey takes you through the stunning Highlands, where the landscapes switch from mountains to peaceful lochs.

By Bus: Do you prefer to let someone else do the driving? We do. Buses connect Fort William and Inverness in around 2 hours. It might take a bit longer than driving, but you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views without worrying about traffic.

However you choose to travel, the journey itself is a treat, offering glimpses of the beautiful Scottish countryside.

Exploring Inverness

Loch Ness: A trip to Inverness wouldn’t be complete without some time at Loch Ness. It’s just a 30-minute drive or bus ride south from Inverness. Once you get to the lake, you must take a boat tour to do your own Nessie spotting.

Loch Ness is famous for its mysterious depths and, of course, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Consider hopping on a boat tour to explore the loch and maybe catch a glimpse of Nessie.

Culloden Battlefield: If you’re into history or love Outlander , check out the Culloden Battlefield. It’s not far from Inverness and marks the final showdown of the Jacobite Risings in 1746. Walk the field, visit the visitor center, and get a feel for the historical weight of the place.

Inverness Castle: You can’t miss Inverness Castle towering over the city. It’s been around since 11 AD and has seen its fair share of history. Once turned into an 18th-century citadel (Fort George), and later transformed into the neo-Norman style structure you see today, the castle is a blend of architectural styles. Take a stroll around the castle grounds for panoramic views of the city and the River Ness.

Inverness is a cool mix of history, nature, and culture, making it a perfect day trip from Fort William. Whether you’re into the mysteries of Loch Ness, fascinated by historical battles, or just love exploring old castles, Inverness has something for everyone.

Where to Eat in Fort Williams After a Busy Day Traveling the Scottish Highlands

As budget travelers, we are always going to promote our philosophy of not eating out while traveling . But after a long day of tripping, you may need a night out.

If you are a fan of craft beer and pizza, there is no better place in Fort William than Black Isle Brewing Co. Centrally located in a renovated church, the brewpub is a great place to have some good food, good drink and good vibes.

How Far is Fort William from Edinburgh

Fort William is roughly 140 miles from Edinburgh. You can travel by car, train or bus.

We privilege travel by public transit for it economic and environmental impacts, so we traveled by train to Fort William from Edinburgh. And we traveled by bus from Fort William to our next stop in Glasgow.

It you are going by train, there are around 4 trains daily from Edinburgh to Fort William. Travel time is roughly 5 hours.

There is also a daily bus on Citylink from Edinburgh to Fort William. The travel time is 4.5 hours.

Need more advice on what to see and how to travel around Scotland using public transit. Read more of our Scotland content….including 24 Hours in Edinburgh and Scotland Without a Car .

Or Watch our YouTube Video to see why Fort William is the Best Scottish Highland Base.

Faith, along with her husband and her son make up 3TicketsPlease. We have adventured to over 25 countries together. Budget travel allows us to live our philosophy of "why wait to travel," and we'd love to help you and your family see the world now.

Similar Posts

Scotland Without A Car: Planning Made Easy

Planning a trip to Scotland, but hoping to visit Scotland without a car? As we were planning our 2-week itinerary across Scotland, Wales and Ireland, nearly every post was about driving here and driving there. We get it. Driving can make things easier. But can you visit Scotland without a car. Yes, you can. You definitely…

7 Free Things to Do in Cobh, Ireland

A picturesque coastal town, Cobh is a great base, not only in its own right but for its closeness to Cork. Cobh is not only quaint and historic, it also offers the budget minded traveler experiences that are free or very low cost. Read on for our five favorite free things to do in Cobh,…

Best Things to Do With One Day in Edinburgh

It only takes one day in Edinburgh, Scotland to fall in love. Our suggestions for how to make the best of your short time in this magical, medieval city. As always, our itineraries are budget- and family-friendly, because that is who we are.

Best Bike Rental in Cork

With miles of greenway and an accessible and inexpensive bike rental, Cork, Ireland is a great city to explore on two wheels.

Why the Snowdonia Sherpa Bus is Best

Traveling using the Snowdonia Sherpa bus is inexpensive and easy. Read for all the details of how we used the Snowdonia Sherpa bus as our only mode of transit in the park.

THE 10 BEST Fort William Tours & Excursions

Fort william tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Movie & TV Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

2. Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

3. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh

4. Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh

5. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

6. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Inc Accommodation from Edinburgh

7. Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

8. Full-Day Trip: Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Highlands from Edinburgh

9. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh

10. Luxury Private Tour of The Highlands & Loch Ness from Edinburgh

11. Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

12. Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands - 2 Day Tour from Edinburgh

13. Isle of Skye, The Highlands and Loch Ness - 3 Day Tour from Glasgow

14. Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure - Winter Edition from Glasgow

15. Seal Island Cruise Tour

16. 3-Day Isle of Skye, 'Hogwarts Express' Train and Highlands Tour

17. Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure from Glasgow

18. Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands - 2 Day Tour from Glasgow

19. 5-Day Best of Scotland Tour from Edinburgh

20. Loch Ness, Glencoe and Scottish Highlands Tour with Scenic Walk from Edinburgh

21. 2-Day Loch Lomond, West Highlands, Glencoe & Oban Tour

22. Ultimate Day tour: Edinburgh, Loch Lomond, Glencoe & Fort William

23. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh

24. Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan - 2 Day Tour from Edinburgh

25. Loch Ness, Highlands Tour, Glencoe & Pitlochry 1 Day Tour

26. 2-Day Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh

27. Loch Ness, Glen Coe & The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

28. Group Walk up Ben Nevis from Fort William

29. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour from Glasgow

30. Private Day trip to Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands via Glencoe

What travelers are saying.

• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh
• Glenfinnan, Glencoe and Fort William Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh
• Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow
• Full-Day Trip to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh
• West Coast Mountain Guides
• Abacus Mountain Guides
• The Highland Mountain Company
• Cruise Loch Linnhe
• LandD Adventures
• Highland Scenic Tours
• Highland Wildlife Tours
• Fort William Sea Tours
• River to Sea Scotland
• Crannog Cruises
• Active Highs
• Rockhopper Sea Kayaking - Day Tours
• Lochaber Guides - Private Day Tours
• 1 Day Tours Scotland - Private Tour
• Atlas Mountaineering
• Vertical Descents Scotland

Fort William Holiday Lodge

explore a little further

Day Trips from Fort William

Here are a few truly great day trips from fort william that can be enjoyed  in a full day.  i’ve aimed to keep these within a three-hour drive (one way) so they are just about manageable in a day. if you’re looking for things a little closer to fort william there’s plenty of options from our ‘ things to do ‘ page..

Skye has to be my favourite day trips from Fort William (although it is a long day), there’s so much to see from the Cuillin to the Quiraing, here we’ll explore the latter. The Quiraing on Skye is simply stunning and well worth the trip. It’s been used as a film location many times and for good reason. I would recommend doing the full four- mile circuit which passes the Prison, Needle and Old Man of Storr.

• 2 Hours 50 Min Drive

Oban ‘seafood capital of Scotland’. From the north, you will glimpse this bustling port from the top of the ‘Bealach-an-Righ’. As you sweep down the hill towards the expanse of the bay, the view opens up before you, and one begins to appreciate why Oban has developed into Scotland’s most popular west-coast holiday town.

• 1 Hour 15 Mins

Isle of Mull

If you fancy an adventure to the isle of Mull your best bet is to drive or get the train to Oban, then get the ferry across. If you fancy exploring Mull it’s worth planning in advance.  It’s a great day out!

• Sea Eagle Adventure Trip

The Cairngorms are a natural playground. The area offers watersports, snow sports, some incredible walking, cycling routes, and has 12 golf courses. It’s even home to the only sled dog centre, and the first permanent bridge-based bungee jump, in the UK’. One of the best trips in the UK and definitely one of the best day trips from Fort William.

• 1 Hour 30 Mins

Loch Ness Cruise

The largest Lake in the United Kingdom by volume, the cruise is ‘The perfect way to experience the sights, wildlife and history of the famous loch’. Incredible scenery, hunting for Nessie and being out on the water makes this one of the best day trips from Fort William.

If you want to explore more about being out on the water in the Highlands check out our water sport s page

• 40 Min Drive

Fairy Pools

At the foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle are the Fairy Pools – beautiful crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle. These famous pools entice visitors from all over the world.   For those brave enough to enter the cold waters, they are great for ‘Wild Swimming’. For the less adventurous these magical Fairy Pools will provide some fantastic photos.

• 2 Hours 30 Min Drive

On the West side of Trotternish at Balnacnoc (which means – the village or township in the hills) and above Uig, is the Fairy Glen – a Quirang-like landslip in miniature. The road winds around small round-topped grassy hills with lochans (ponds) in between, which give the Glen an otherworldly feel.

• 2 Hours 40 Min Drive

‘You’ll be surprised where a day out in the Highland capital might take you. You could retrace the footsteps of fallen soldiers on a battlefield or stand in the heart of a Bronze Age chambered tomb.’

• 1 Hour 34 Mins

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle, located in Stirling, is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, both historically and architecturally. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation. It is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs, giving it a strong defensive position. While you’re in Stirling it’s also worth visiting The National Wallace Monument.

• 2 Hours 27 Min Drive
• £16.50 Online

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Fort William

Basking on Loch Linnhe's shores amid magnificent mountain scenery, Fort William has one of the most enviable settings in all of Scotland. If it weren't for the busy dual carriageway crammed between the less-than-attractive town centre and the loch, and one of the highest rainfall records in the country, it would be almost idyllic. Even so, the Fort has carved out a reputation as the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK' (www.outdoorcapital.co.uk), and easy access by rail and bus makes it a good base for exploring the surrounding mountains and glens.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Fort William. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Jacobite Steam Train

The Jacobite Steam Train, hauled by a former LNER K1 or LMS Class 5MT locomotive, travels the scenic two-hour run between Fort William and Mallaig…

West Highland Museum

This small but fascinating museum is packed with all manner of Highland memorabilia. Look out for the secret portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie – after the…

Ben Nevis Distillery

A tour of this distillery makes for a warming rainy day alternative to exploring the hills.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Scotland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Fort William

Sustainable Travel

Apr 11, 2018 • 2 min read

A unique new property aimed at environmentally-conscious travellers has been unveiled in the Scottish Highlands that sees guests staying in a stunning…

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Fort William with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• ABOUT THIS TOUR
• ITINERARY & MAP

Tour Highlights

• The only Skye tour offering free Invermoriston pick up and drop off
• Experience all of the highlights of Skye in just one day
• The only day tour to visit both the Fairy Pools and the Trotternish Peninsula
• Leave your car behind and see Skye with locals who know it (and love it!)

Itinerary and Map +

Itinerary & map, your ultimate isle of skye tour starts in invermoriston.

The Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour departs Inverness at 8.15am and will pick you up from the Invermoriston (in the small carpark opposite The Clog & Craft Shop) at 9.15am . From here the tour is as detailed from number 3 – 9 on our Ultimate Skye Tour page. At the end of the day we will drop you off back in Invermoriston at approximately 7.15pm , before returning to Inverness at 8.15pm.

If you are staying in Fort Augustus or Fort William please check out our FAQ tab above for details of how to get to the meeting point in Invermoriston.

There are so many wonderful sights on the Isle of Skye and we have carefully crafted our itinerary to enable you to see as much as possible in one day, without feeling rushed. Even if you have your own transport we would highly recommend leaving the driving to our highly experienced driver guide; we are adept at safely manoeuvring the single track roads and tourist traffic, letting you concentrate on enjoying the world-class scenery on Skye.

Book a Tour

How can I join the tour from Fort William? +

Travel by car

If you are staying in Fort William you can drive to join the tour in Invermoriston.

If you plan to drive the journey is approximately 40 miles and will take a minimum of one hour. Please leave plenty time for your journey as the road can be busy and it can be tricky to overtake large vehicles, so it may well take longer than you expect.   Upon arrival you can park at the Invermoriston Falls car park in the village (postcode for your satnav is IV63 7YA) which is just down the road from our pick up point.  There are public toilets here.    

Make your way to the small carpark across the road from The Clog & Craft Shop, where the tour will collect you at 9.15am.  You will be dropped off back in Invermoriston at around 7.15 – 7.30pm.

Travel by Citylink bus (one way only)

If you do not have a car you can take the Citylink bus in the morning to meet the tour, but please note that there is no longer a late return service from Invermoriston (as of 2023).  Consequently, if you take the bus in the morning you will need to make alternative plans in the evening i.e. either return to Inverness with the tour or book a taxi to return from Invermoriston to Fort William (approx. £90 one way, must be booked in advance).

In the morning you need to take the 7.30am Citylink bus from Fort William Bus Station. This bus arrives in Invermoriston (outside the village hall) at 8.41am. From here it is a very short walk (approx. 1 minute, public toilets on the way) to the small carpark across the road from The Clog & Craft Shop, where the tour will collect you at 9.15am. 

At the end of the day the tour will drop you off in Invermoriston at around 7.15-7.30pm, or you can return to Inverness.

You can purchase your tickets from the Citylink website in advance.

How can I join the tour from Fort Augustus? +

To join the tour from Fort Augustus you can either take a bus (one way only) or drive to join the tour in Invermoriston.

You need to catch the Citylink bus at 8.29am in Fort Augustus. This bus arrives in Invermoriston (outside the village hall) at 8.41am. From here it is a very short walk (approx. 1 minute, public toilets on the way) to the small carpark opposite The Clog & Craft Shop, where the tour will collect you at 9.15am.  Please note that there is no late bus returning to Fort Augustus after the tour returns at 7.15-7.30pm.   Consequently, you would need to pre-book a taxi, or return with the tour to Inverness at the end of the day.

You can purchase a single ticket from the Citylink website in advance (£3 approx.)

If you plan to drive the journey is approximately 7 miles and will take around 15 minutes.  Upon arrival you can park at the Invermoriston Falls car park in the village (postcode for your satnav is IV63 7YA) which is just around the corner from our pick up point. There are public toilets here.

What time will you pick me up in Invermoriston? +

The tour will pick you up at 9.15am in Invermoriston. Note that, when you start to book the tour, you will see that there is only an option to book the 8.15am tour.  Please rest assured that this is the correct tour – it departs from Inverness at 8.15am and will pick you up at 9.15am.  As you progress through the booking you will be able to select the pick up time and place (Invermoriston, 9.15am) and your booking confirmation email will also contain this information.  

Please note that the pick up time is approximate and we may collect you a little later than this, depending on road conditions etc. If we are going to be late we will do our best to inform you.  In order that we can do this please ensure that you include a working cell/mobile phone number on your booking.

View More FAQs

Discover the Factor

Meet your guides, gordon pearson.

Founder & Tour Guide

  730 Reviews

Gordon founded WOW Scotland in 2010 and hasn’t looked back since. He is passionate about showcasing his homeland, and is continually striving to create the best possible experiences for every guest.

Robert Carr

  137 Reviews

Prior to being a tour guide, Rob ran successful food and tourism businesses in Edinburgh and Perthshire. He has now been in the Highlands for 16 years, where he loves to indulge in his joint passions of golf and hiking.

Andrew Jones

  210 Reviews

With over 10 years of experience as a tour director and guide, Andrew prefers to consider himself as a storyteller, amateur historian and, above all, an ambassador for Scotland

Meet the Team

Tours you may also like...

Share the moment

Join us on our award-winning tours.

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Fort William Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Fort William. We've got 121 adventures going to Fort William, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 29 days. The most popular month to go is July, which has the largest number of tour departures.

Filters applied

121 fort william tour packages with 6,451 reviews.

• Coach / Bus

3 Day Isle of Skye

🇫🇷Ce tour avec notre guide, Branka, était absolument génial ! Elle nous a raconté toutes sortes d'histoires sur l'Écosse, des mythes aux légendes, et c'était vraiment captivant. Et vous savez quoi ? Branka a une sorte de magie : si vous imaginez vos rêves dans votre tête, elle les rend réalité ! Nous avons manifesté du beau temps, et nous l'avons eu tout le long du voyage. Et c'est fou, mais Branka connaît bien Steve le chercheur du Loch Ness ! Notre rencontre avec lui était vraiment incroyable ! On s'est vraiment pris au jeu et on a passé trois jours de pur bonheur et de joie. Je recommande vivement cette expérience à tous ceux qui veulent découvrir l'Écosse de manière authentique et magique ! Et les paysages en valent vraiment le coup : à peine une heure après Édimbourg, vous ne cessez plus de sortir votre appareil photo et de photographier tout ce que vos yeux admirent. 🇬🇧This tour with our guide, Branka, was absolutely amazing! She told us all stories about Scotland, from myths to legends, and it was really captivating. And you know what? Branka has a kind of magic: if you imagine your dreams in your head, she makes them come true! We manifested the good weather, and we had it throughout the trip. And it's crazy, but Branka knows Steve the hunter from Loch Ness! Our encounter with him was truly incredible! We really got into the game and spent three days of pure happiness and joy. I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to discover Scotland in an authentic and magical way! And the landscapes are really worth it: just an hour after Edinburgh, you can't stop taking out your camera and photographing everything your eyes admire.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands - from Edinburgh

We got to see breathtaking sights, the bus was clean and comfortable, and every seat has charging port access. Our guides, Tom and Brian, were fantastic, funny, and personable. Loved the kilts and the fabulous Scottish accents! Would highly recommend!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

It was a good trip seeing a lot of Scotland and the tour guide was very good. However a few things to improve are: There were too many people in the group so didn't really interact with the rest of them and the language difference didn't help either as I didn't realise that most of them spoke Spanish so the guide had to say everything in 2 languages. There was confusion on the trip as in the main Itinerary, it only mentioned breakfast included but when you looked into individual days it said dinner included, so didn't match. I feel that at least 1 dinner would have been nice to help with interacting with the group. I was a bit disappointed that the distillery changed days instead of the 1st day as I would have liked a bit more time to see Edinburgh especially as it was nice that day. Also the day in Edinburgh shouldn't be on a Saturday as it was too busy. A few places I felt rushed like Fort William as we only had time to get out, see it a bit, have a hot drink and toilet and then go but to be honest there wasn't much there so could have gone anywhere really. It was nice to see the castles except it would have good if Edinburgh castle had been included, but also maybe see something else for a variety like a mine or cave, or we did pass a cable car and that would have been nice. But overall it was a nice trip seeing places around Scotland in the time.

Highlights of Scotland

This was my second G Adventures tour and it proved to be as enjoyable as the first one, which was the main reason my wife and I booked it. The small size of the tour group and the variety of people made it all the better. The tour offered a good balance between structured visits of major attractions and free time to explore on our own. I would not hesitate to recommend a G Adventures tour to anyone seeking a guided travel experience in the company of other like-minded travelers.

2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & the Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Gail was a fabulous tour guide. She introduced us to beautiful places, lovely Scottish music, and lots of interesting stories. Love the trip, but felt a little rushed at a couple of our stops. I understand it may have been because of the Sun setting earlier during the fall.

Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & The North West Highlands - Departing Edinburgh

The tour guide was witty & funny!He did a good job of giving us details & educating the group on the area.Best trip I have had ever! It was worth every penny!Id do it over 10X

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

An absolute blast from start to finish! The schedule was well paced, every location is stunning, the hostels are decent, the Loch Ness one in particular has some lovely hosts. Neil, our guide, is very knowledgable and constantly dropped awesome lore on top of some banging jokes. I got lucky with the timing as the weather was unusually clear except for the last day, while still cold enough to see snow (lost my snow virginity!!) and avoid the midgies. Oh I got to see the highland coos up close too. Can’t recommend this tour enough as your first experience with Scotland!

• Hiking & Trekking

Classic Walks of Scotland

The classic Walks of Scotland was my husband’s and my first experience with a group trip, We felt that everything went well, from the booking of the trip with Tourradar to the rest of the trip, hikes and bookings though Intrepid. The Intrepid group we hiked with was great and our guide, Kate, was very professional, attentive and fun. Thanks to Carmen and Phil from Guisachan Guest house for the comfortable and homey accommodations.

4-Day Outlander Trail Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh Including Admissions

It was fantastic. We had a Scottish tour guide who wore a kilt named Ross who was very knowledgeable about Outlander and the history of Scotland. He made the tour easy and the accommodation was superb, especially Fort William they made us a roast as we said we fancied one, so very kind. We'll worth the journey up to Scotland

Bonnie Scotland

More sight seeing will be good.

Isle Of Skye And The Highlands

A very good organised route & service! Great tour leader Sophie did her best to make the group happy all the time!

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highland Experience's Scottish Choice

Chris was an excellent guide and driver of a small (12) group tour. He creatively overcame several weather-based obstacles like closed roads from landslides and no ferry due to wind. He was charming and funny. The coach was comfortable and so were accommodations. The group was 5 seniors and the rest about 25 to 35 years old. The tour hit all the highlights of Scotland's highlands. I highly recommend this tour.

Ultimate Skye Experience

Good tour, amazing landscapes and lots of history in Scotland

Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides

Gillian was fantastic! Her passion for Scotland and her love of her homeland was so evident from the very start. She taught us so much about the history of Scotland and showed us so many beautiful places. Her sense of humour is wonderful, as is her storytelling ability and her music. She kept us enthralled and entertained every day! Thank you, Gillian, so very much! We will never forget you or Scotland!!

Taste of Scotland

What people love about fort william tours.

This trip was a great experience. Great sceneries, great vibes, we had a great tour guide Mark who made it very special with his energy and humour. Met some great people and I would definitely recommend. Loved Scotland!

Excellent driver/tour guide in Garry. Very knowledgeabke

It was a good trip seeing a lot of Scotland and the tour guide was very good. However a few things to improve are: There were too many people in the group so didn't really interact with the rest of them and the language difference didn't help either as I didn't realise that most of them spoke Spanish so the guide had to say everything in 2 languages. There was confusion on the trip as in the main Itinerary, it only mentioned breakfast included but when you looked into individual days it said dinner included, so didn't match. I feel that at least 1 dinner would have been nice to help with interacting with the group. I was a bit disappointed that the distillery changed days instead of the 1st day as I would have liked a bit more time to see Edinburgh especially as it was nice that day. Also the day in Edinburgh shouldn't be on a Saturday as it was too busy. A few places I felt rushed like Fort William as we only had time to get out, see it a bit, have a hot drink and toilet and then go but to be honest there wasn't much there so could have gone anywhere really. It was nice to see the castles except it would have good if Edinburgh castle had been included, but also maybe see something else for a variety like a mine or cave, or we did pass a cable car and that would have been nice. But overall it was a nice trip seeing places around Scotland in the time.

• to Europe (2)
• Scotland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Scotland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Top Tours in Fort William, Scotland

Fort william tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Film & TV Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

2. Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

3. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh

4. Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh

5. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

6. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Inc Accommodation from Edinburgh

7. Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

8. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh

9. Luxury Private Tour of The Highlands & Loch Ness from Edinburgh

10. Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

11. Loch Linnhe Rib Adventures in Aurora

12. Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands - 2 Day Tour from Edinburgh

13. Isle of Skye, The Highlands and Loch Ness - 3 Day Tour from Glasgow

14. Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure - Winter Edition from Glasgow

15. Full-Day Trip: Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Highlands from Edinburgh

16. Seal Island Cruise Tour

17. 3-Day Isle of Skye, 'Hogwarts Express' Train and Highlands Tour

18. Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure from Glasgow

19. Evening Cruise in Scotland

20. Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands - 2 Day Tour from Glasgow

21. 5-Day Best of Scotland Tour from Edinburgh

22. Loch Ness, Glencoe and Scottish Highlands Tour with Scenic Walk from Edinburgh

23. Ultimate Day tour: Edinburgh, Loch Lomond, Glencoe & Fort William

24. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh

25. Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan - 2 Day Tour from Edinburgh

26. Loch Ness, Highlands Tour, Glencoe & Pitlochry 1 Day Tour

27. 2-Day Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh

28. Loch Ness, Glen Coe & The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

29. Group Walk up Ben Nevis from Fort William

30. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour from Glasgow

What travellers are saying.

• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh
• Glenfinnan, Glencoe and Fort William Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh
• Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow
• Full-Day Trip to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh
• West Coast Mountain Guides
• Abacus Mountain Guides
• The Highland Mountain Company
• Cruise Loch Linnhe
• LandD Adventures
• Highland Scenic Tours
• Highland Wildlife Tours
• Fort William Sea Tours
• River to Sea Scotland
• Crannog Cruises
• Active Highs
• Rockhopper Sea Kayaking - Day Tours
• Lochaber Guides - Private Day Tours
• 1 Day Tours Scotland - Private Tour
• Atlas Mountaineering
• Vertical Descents Scotland

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

Glenfinnan Monument

© Shutterstock

Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure (Edinburgh)

This is of one of most popular tours. This tour takes you up through dramatic and atmospheric Glencoe, before reaching Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis. Then, it's on to Glenfinnan to see the famous Viaduct and Monument.

Our Glenfinnan, Glencoe and Fort William Adventure begins in the heart of Edinburgh city centre, at our departure point on the Royal Mile. Departing Edinburgh's bustling streets, passing some of its most iconic sights like Edinburgh Castle on your way out, and begin your journey north into the rugged Scottish Highlands.

We pause for refreshments at Callander, the gateway to the Highlands, before continuing to Glencoe. The well-known, dramatic Glen features in many films, such as James Bonds' Skyfall, and is the backdrop to some scenes from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, perfect to get you in the mood to visit the famous "Harry Potter Bridge" that you will see later in the tour. We pause here for photos and to learn all about the history of Glencoe, including the massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692.

From the atmospheric Glencoe, we travel further along the banks of Loch Linnhe to the Highland town of Fort William, which sits at the foot of Britain's tallest mountain - Ben Nevis. We stop here to allow you to stretch your legs and have an early lunch break, before we journey onwards to the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct was arguably made most famous from its scenes in Harry Potter and is surrounded by mountains on the stunning shores of Loch Shiel. Not only is this location famous for the Jacobite Steam Train* (not to be confused with the Hogwarts' Express), Loch Sheil was the location of the "Black Lake". See if you can spot a "grindylow" causing trouble under the surface! It's also the setting for Buckbeak's beautiful flight, scenes from the Triwizard Tournament, and also the stunning loch on which Hogwarts sits.

We take in the viaduct and a photo opportunity before a visit to the nearby Glenfinnan Monument, which symbolises one of the most important events in Scottish history; the 1745 Jacobite uprising.

Departing Glenfinnan, we begin our return journey to Edinburgh, stopping along the way for refreshments at the small village of Pitlochry. Enjoy time to stretch your legs and grab a quick bite to eat before we return to Edinburgh where our Glenfinnan, Glencoe and Fort William Adventure will end. 

*This tour will visit the Glenfinnan area and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Due to an ongoing service interruption, the Jacobite Steam Train will not pass over the viaduct until further notice. Timberbush will continue to monitor the situation and communicate any updates on the service.

From £57 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0131) 2266066
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Edinburgh - City Centre
• Small coach
• Large Group (31+)
• Medium Group (17-30)
• Small Group (1-16)

Tour prices

From £57 Per Adult £55 Per Child £55 Concession

Prices are subject to change depending on season

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Tour gallery

Tour company information

Timberbush tours ltd.

With over 25 years experience, we are one of Scotland’s longest running tour operators who offer a wide range of 1, 2 & 3 day tours of the Scottish Highlands and Islands, running daily from our Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. We will take you on a journey of discovery around Scotland’s best tourist attractions and historical sites as well as off-the-beaten-track beauty spots. We love nothing more than showing our adventurers around our beloved Scotland, taking in sights such as Skye, Loch Ness, Stirling Castle, Glencoe, the Harry Potter Train and many others.

Social Channels

Visit Timberbush Tours Ltd

Opening times

Daily: 07:00 - 22:00

Other tours from this company

Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands (Edinburgh)

Departs: Edinburgh - City Centre

Spend a full day taking in some of the most dramatic scenery of the Scottish Hig...

Price from:

£57pp

Rosslyn Chapel, Scottish Borders & Glenkinchie Distille...

Our one day tour from Edinburgh takes you on a visit to the intriguing Rosslyn C...

£41pp

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and The Kelpies

Our tour will introduce you to the land and legends of Scottish heroes William W...

£52pp

West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles

On this fascinating journey through a beautiful part of the Highlands you will e...

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Scotland's Big Five

Wildlife safaris

Scenery & History

Trip Advisor

The Perfect 1 or 2 Days in Fort William & Glencoe Itinerary

Last Updated on January 12, 2024

by Daniella Lynn Theis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

One of the towns to visit in the Scottish Highlands that makes a perfect pit-stop is Fort William. Serving as a gateway to the inimitable Glencoe, planning a 1 or 2 days in Fort William itinerary is an excellent way to see some of the highlights of this area of Scotland.

There are many things to do in Fort William as its prime location is the beginning or end of the West Highland Way and it sits in the shadow of Ben Nevis – the UK’s tallest mountain.

Just outside the town, you will find the beautiful mountain range of Glencoe. It is hands down one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. I am still in awe at the mountains every time I see them.

There are plenty of options for things to do in the area all year round, and you will not struggle to fill a day with exploring.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Fort William & Glencoe

Figuring out the best time to visit Fort William and Glencoe is really more dependent on what your preferences are. Overall, the Scottish weather will be best between May and October. If you are hoping for some sun and fewer chances of rain, then these are the best months to go visit Fort William and Glencoe.

However, the Scottish weather is not known to be predictable. While there are higher chances of dry and sunny weather during that time, it is not a guarantee. The best thing for your trip will be to be prepared. Pack a good jacket and a good pair of shoes no matter what time of year you go!

Also, it is worth noting that temperatures hardly ever skyrocket in Scotland, not even in summer. Expect something between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius between May and October.

In terms of beauty, both are beautiful all year round, and I am sure you will marvel at the snow-filled mountains just as much as when they were green. Fort William, in particular, is actually a great place to visit in winter if you are into snow sports.

Nevis range is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders alike. A thing worth mentioning that if you are planning to partake in hillwalking – especially Ben Nevis – you should only aim to do so in winter if you are an experienced hillwalker. The ice and snow make the climb far more challenging, and it is not recommended to attempt the hill without the necessary equipment and experience.

Getting to Fort William & Glencoe

Fort William is easily accessible by train, bus or car from Inverness , Edinburgh or Glasgow. Please note: If you are going by public transport from Edinburgh , you will have to make your way to Glasgow by bus or train and then take the bus or train towards Fort William.

CityLink buses drive straight through the Glencoe mountain bus and stop at several points along the way, including Glencoe Visitor Centre. 

Best is to speak to the driver before you board to ensure the bus stops where you are planning to get off. The bus taking you to Glencoe is the same that also runs to Fort William, and the overall journey takes about three hours.

Sometimes you can snap up a good deal if you book in advance, so it is always worth doing the research before your trip.

Several buses run from Inverness throughout the day. While you can get a direct bus from Inverness to Fort William, you will have to change buses in Fort William itself to get to Glencoe. Click here to view schedules.

Fort William’s bus station is right in the town centre, and with only a few bus stops, it is straightforward to navigate. It is also right beside a big supermarket so that if you want to quickly buy some snacks for your Glencoe day trip, you can do so.

If you are coming from Glasgow, The West Highland railway runs through parts of Glencoe, and you can even listen to an audio tour on a free app created by Scottish Natural Heritage which is available on several scenic train routes in Scotland.

The train ride is said to be one of the most scenic routes in Europe, and I am sure you will not be disappointed. You will be able to see the area in all its beauty, go past the Rannoch moors, and likely see some stags!

In terms of getting off at Glencoe, that aspect will be harder unless you have some other form of transport organised when you embark. The train line loops around some of the main tourist sites of Glencoe so getting to the visitor centre or Glencoe village by train is not entirely possible. However, the train line does go straight to Fort William train station.

The overall journey takes a little under four hours. Again, if you book in advance, you can sometimes snap up tickets for half this price. Click here to view schedules.

Going from Inverness to Fort William by train is something I would not recommend. The two cities do not have a train line connecting them. Therefore, it would be necessary to go from Inverness down to Glasgow and then from there towards Fort William.

It is reasonably easy to get to the area by car and is a popular stop if driving from Edinburgh to Inverness . The A82 gets you from Glasgow, past Loch Lomond and all the way up to Fort William.

It will go past the banks of Loch Lomond and offers several other stops along the way. The road takes you right through the Glencoe mountain pass and should you not wish to stop, it is totally possible to enjoy Glencoe’s scenery from your car. The journey altogether should take you about three hours depending on traffic.

From Edinburgh, you can either make your way to Glasgow and follow the route mentioned above, or you can take the A84 via Stirling/Callander.

The journey takes you through parts of Cairngorms National Park, and you might be able to avoid the queues that sometimes build up along the A82 while it goes past Loch Lomond. It is still a very scenic route.

You will join up with the A82 eventually, meaning you still get the incredible bit of road that stretches through the Glencoe mountain pass. The journey again will be about three hours from Edinburgh, depending on traffic.

From Inverness, you can take the A82 as well, which should get you to Fort William within about two hours depending on traffic.

If you’re planning on renting a car in Scotland, browsing on Rentalcars.com is the best way to find a good deal as they aggregate results across all the major car hire companies.

It’s also worth considering iCarHireInsurance for excess insurance if you want to have peace of mind in knowing you won’t need to pay any deductibles if making a claim.

By Organised Tour

If you prefer to explore Fort William & Glencoe by organised tour then there are several options. One of the best-rated options is this full-day tour from Edinburgh that includes stops in Fort William & Glencoe as well as Loch Ness .

There are also two-day tours options from both Edinburgh and also from Glasgow that allow you to see more of the attractions in Fort William & Glencoe as well as other parts of the Highlands.

1 to 2-Day Glencoe & Fort William Itinerary

As mentioned, outdoor activities are a must-do when visiting Fort William. Of course, you will want to try and maximise the things you can see and do while you are there. It is, however, essential to keep in mind that some sights are further apart geographically.

Others are more time-consuming, and you should not be rushing through sights and miss the beauty of it all.  I have therefore compiled some of my highlights into a one- or two-day itinerary to hopefully make the decision easier for you!

Day 1 – Glencoe Highlights

If you only have one day, I would say to firstly focus on visiting Glencoe, which is absolutely breathtaking. If you are looking for things to do in Fort William itself, then go straight to day two of the itinerary.

Loch Atriochtan & Signal Rock Walk

If you are feeling tired and not ready for a day of walking, then this view will wake you up. Make your way to Loch Atriochtan car park, and you will not be disappointed.

You will be able to see the extent of the Glencoe Mountain pass and likely see some nearby waterfalls. It is probably one of the most photographed views, and you might not be the only person there, but it is worth it. You’ll believe me when you see it!

If you are coming by bus, you can speak to your driver and see if they can stop at the car park to let you off. If you are coming by car, the car park is just off of the A82.

If you are up for a walk, then you can embark on a walk towards Signal Rock and An Torr which will also lead you along the river Coe and past the Clachaig Falls. Signal Rock is said to have been a central point of communication during the Massacre of Glencoe back in 1692.

If you are hungry or thirsty after your walk, the Clachaig Inn is conveniently located near there and offers food throughout the day.

There are several excellent walks to choose from for any level of fitness. Some do take longer than others though, so bear in mind that in winter it can start getting dark again in the early afternoon.

Glencoe Visitor Centre

The National Trust for Scotland visitor centre has recently gone through a transformation and was only opened a few years ago. It offers a great way to learn about Glencoe’s history, walks, weather, wildlife and things to do in Glencoe. They regularly host children’s activities, exhibitions, as well as art and photographic displays.

If you are looking to find an adrenaline-filled option to explore Glencoe’s surroundings, the centre also offers Land Rover safaris.

However, the car park does have an entry fee, which directly supports the National Trust for Scotland and the work they do around the glen.

Glencoe Village

Have a stop-over for lunch in the village of Glencoe. Buses usually stop here, and the village is also easily accessible by car if you follow the A82 back towards Fort William or take the old road from the Clachaig Inn.

Within the village, you can find out more about the history of local Highland life at the Glencoe Folk Museum and also visit the memorial that commemorates the lives lost during the Glencoe massacre.

If you feel like another walk, you could embark on the Glencoe Lochan trail from here.

Enjoy Fort William’s Bars & Pubs

End your day in Fort William, which has a lot to offer visitors in the way of food, drink and interesting shops. Enjoy wandering along Fort William High Street and taking in views of Loch Linnhe. Of course, unwind after a long day in one of the city’s many pubs.

A great option is Black Isle Bar , which offers a wide selection of craft beer, organic wine and whiskies as well as wood-fired pizzas and salads.

However, there are plenty of other choices of restaurants and smaller pubs. Sometimes you will be lucky enough to find some great local musical talent, too!

Day 2 – Fort William & Surrounding Area

On day two of the itinerary – or should you instead want to focus on things to do within Fort William and only have one day – can be filled with visiting Fort William attractions.

Explore Fort William

Take the morning to explore Fort William’s town centre. It is not very big, so walking along is not too much of a struggle. On Fort William’s High Street, you will find local amenities to grab a coffee or tea to start your day as well as some local shops.

While exploring the town centre, be sure not to miss the West Highland Museum to learn about the story of the region and its history.

Inverlochy & Banavie

Situated just north of the town of Fort William, you will find the towns of Inverlochy and Banavie. The former is home to the Old Inverlochy Castle, a wonderful place to visit for those who love to delve into Scotland’s old royal heritage.

Dating back to the 13th Century, it is mostly ruined now, but it served as a backdrop to a number of important battles in the area.

Making your way a little bit north to the town of Banavie, you will find the beginning (or end, depending on where you start from!) of the Caledonian Canal. This crosses Scotland, includes the incredible Loch Ness, and ends in the city of Inverness.

Make sure to see one of the famous locks on the canal, known colloquially as Neptune’s Staircase.

Lower Falls of Glen Nevis

Continue your day with a trip to Glen Nevis and go on a walk to see the beautiful waterfalls in the area. Glen Nevis is at the foot of Ben Nevis – the highest mountain in the UK. If you are coming by car, there is a small car park available.

A popular walk will take you along the Steall Falls within about two hours, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Be prepared to see some Highland cows along the way!

Should the weather be that tiny bit to ‘dreich’ to go exploring outdoors,  then you should consider the indoor climbing wall at the 3 Wise Monkey’s climbing centre . It is in the town centre and can easily be reached by foot if you are already exploring local attractions in Fort William.

Nevis Range Gondola

This is a great activity to end your day – taking in an incredible view of the surrounding area. Nevis Range does not only provide access to snow sports, but it also has a restaurant that can be reached through a gondola ride. Sitting at 650m on the mountain of Aonach Mor, you will be sure to be dining with a view.

Nevis Range can be reached by taking the A82 back from Fort William and then continuing on until you see the turn for Nevis Range and Aonach Mor. If you are taking the bus, take the bus back from Glencoe village to Fort William bus station and hop on one of the local buses to get to Nevis Range.

Should you not be able to make the trip up the mountain, you could instead go see Ben Nevis distillery and visitor centre. While the view might be different as it is located at the bottom of the hill, it will certainly still provide a fun way to end your day!

The distillery is one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland. You can do a tour and taste a local dram.

Have More Time ?

If you have more than two days to spare, then it is definitely worth to explore the area of Lochaber. There are several great day trips from Fort William that you can consider.

Climb Ben Nevis or The Three Sisters of Glencoe

Ben Nevis is Britain’s highest peak, and the climb is quite the challenge. It is essential to set a full day aside if you are considering to ascend the mountain. Be sure to check whether the weather conditions permit the climb and that you are bringing the appropriate equipment!

If you choose to spend a day exploring the spectacular peaks of The Three Sisters of Glencoe, you will get some unbeatable views. As above, however, please be mindful of the conditions and the equipment needed!

Take the Jacobite train to Mallaig

If you are looking for something less action-packed after exploring the outdoor capital of the UK, then you should consider taking the Jacobite Steam train to Mallaig. The journey takes about two hours, and the views are out of this world.

This journey is very popular with tourists, and it is highly recommended to book in advance. You can find details of the Jacobite Steam train on the official page.

Harry Potter fans, this is your must-do! Not only will you be riding in the train compartments used to film the Hogwarts Express in the movies, but you will also see several sights from the movie. The train goes over Glenfinnan viaduct – the bridge that was prominently shown in the Chamber of Secrets – as well as going past Dumbledore’s grave.

Visit Glenfinnan

When you visit Glenfinnan, you can see the Glenfinnan viaduct from below rather than riding on it, allowing a different view. Glenfinnan, however, has historical significance that stretches far beyond the making of the Harry Potter movies.

The 18-metre-high Glenfinnan Monument was erected in 1815, in tribute to the Jacobite clansmen who fought and died in 1745 for Prince Charles Edward Stuart – commonly known as ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’.

The Jacobite risings were the last attempt to reinstate the exiled Stuarts on the throne of Great Britain and Ireland. If you want to find out more about this aspect of Scottish history, be sure to visit the Monument Visitor Centre.

Walk the West Highland Way

The 95-mile walking route is done by thousands of people each year. It is said to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding things to do. If you have several days or preferably a week, you could make Fort William your starting point to walk the West Highland Way all the way to Glasgow.

However, it does mean that you will be facing the challenging part of the journey first. Typically, people start the walk in Glasgow, as the lowlands are more comfortable to walk than the Highlands.

If you’re looking for an alternative long-distance walk from Fort William, the Great Glen Way stretches all the way to Inverness and is absolutely spectacular, as well.

Where to Stay in Fort William & Glencoe

Gowan Brae Bed & Breakfast – This comfy B&B is an excellent option for mid-range travellers. Located in the centre of Fort William, they have a handful of clean and comfortable rooms available and a hearty breakfast included in the rate.

The Isles of Glencoe Hotel — This lochside hotel is an absolutely stunning place to stay in Glencoe. They have a number of cosy and comfortable rooms available, great facilities like a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. They are also well-located to explore the area.

Private Rental – There are some fantastic unique properties available such as this cosy traditional stone cottage.

Fort William Backpackers – This is a great choice if you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget. They have both dorm and private rooms available, a cosy atmosphere, good common areas, and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Fort William!

Hopefully, this Fort William & Glencoe itinerary has inspired you to plan your trip to the Highlands and see this incredible part of the world!

Are you visiting Glencoe & Fort William? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

Related Posts:

28 Best Stops on a London to Edinburgh Drive

The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

The Perfect One Day in Inverness Itinerary

About Daniella Lynn Theis

Daniella is a writer for The World Was Here First. Based in in Glasgow, Scotland, she has lived in several different countries and is always on the hunt for adventures, trying to find even the most hidden secrets for any destination. In her spare time, she loves photography and finding new eateries and things to do in or around Glasgow.

Hi Daniella, Great article !! I am visiting Scotland in May this year and am trying to figure out how I can stay in either Glencoe or Ft. William but be able to do some hiking and exploring in Glencoe without a car. Any suggestions for private guides ? Thank you !!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Fort William Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 5, 2024

Our Fort William Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this Scottish Highland city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Fort William!

Plan your visit to Fort William

The town of Fort William is located in the Scottish Highlands at the foot of Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest peak) and on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Fort William is a mecca for hillwalking, climbing, and cycling.

Fort William is also the starting point of one of the world’s most famous train journeys – the Jacobite Express (or the Harry Potter train for wizarding fans!)

What you will find in this Fort William Travel Guide

Map of Fort William

When is the best time of year to visit fort william, what is the best way to explore fort william, what is the best way to travel to fort william from london, the jacobite, glenfinnan viaduct, glenfinnan monument.

• Neptune's Staircase

Related Travel Guides

Accommodation in fort william, fort william travel guide – best tours and day trips, where to eat – fort william, enjoy your visit to fort william.

Fort William travel guide – Visiting Fort William FAQ’s

Fort William is a popular destination at any time of year but there are advantages and disadvantages to each season.

In summer the hours of daylight are longer and the weather should be warmer and drier. This is Scotland however so prepare for all weather conditions.

In winter expect snow and freezing conditions. Hours of daylight are shorter which minimises the time available to explore. But it is also incredibly beautiful in winter too (and of course no risk of the dreaded midges!)

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

The town is compact and is easy to get around on foot. If you want to see more of the area there are a number of ways to get around.

If you are arriving at Fort William by train it is possible to pick up a hire car (arrange to pick up the car from the train station)

Fort William is located on the scenic West Highland line . The section of the line between Fort William and Mallaig runs for 41 miles and is one of the most beautiful journeys in the world to take by train . For an extra special trip on this section of line why not book tickets on the Jacobite. Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct may seem very familiar as this is the route of the Hogwarts Express!

There are local buses available to travel around the area – click here for more information about Shiel bus services.

CLICK TO BUY

🚆 By train

Travel on the scenic West Highland line to Fort William from Glasgow. The journey takes less than 4 hours and traverses some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery including Loch Lomond and Rannoch Moor.

The Caledonian Sleeper train is a fantastic way to travel to Fort William. You can find more about this service including tips to make the most of your journey in our article – guide to the Caledonian Sleeper or podcast episode.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

🚗 By car (road trip option)

Travel to Fort William from Glasgow via the A82 but do plan to stop off along the way. The journey will take you through Glen Coe with its stunning mountainous scenery.

Distance & drive time

• Edinburgh to Fort William – 212 kms (3 hours 30 mins)
• Glasgow to Fort William – 170 kms (2 hours 50 mins)
• Inverness to Fort William – 145 kms (2 hours 17 mins)

🛥 Boat cruise

Explore the beauty of Loch Linnhe on a boat tour. This is the perfect way to learn about the local history, culture, and wildlife of Loch Linnhe.

• Book your boat tour of Loch Linnhe

🌂 On a guided tour

If you prefer to explore the area on a guided tour there are a number available from Scotland’s major cities.

Tours from Edinburgh

• Loch Ness, Highlands and Glen Coe day tour
• Loch Ness and Highland Full day Tour
• Glenfinnan Mallaig and Glen Coe Tour
• Magical Highland Tour

Tours from Glasgow

• Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour

T ours from Inverness

• Jacobite Steam Train and Highlands Tour

Attractions and things to do in Fort William and surrounds

The famous train departs from Fort William and travels 41 miles to Mallaig over the Glenfinnan Viaduct and some of the most spectacular Highland scenery. The train is very popular so do book asap if it is a trip you would like to include in your Scotland itinerary.

Read more – How to travel on the Harry Potter train in Scotland

The magnificent 21 arch viaduct with the Jacobite steam train crossing on its way to Mallaig or back to Fort William is an iconic photo of this beautiful feat of engineering design.

The viaduct was built between 1897 and 1901 by Robert McAlpine and Sons and was a vital link from the fishing port of Mallaig to Glasgow. Today experience this scenic West Highland route on ScotRail services departing Glasgow or for an extra special treat take the Jacobite steam train in the summer months.

The monument is located at the head of Loch Shiel on the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745 and the Jacobite uprising commenced. There is a visitor centre (have change ready for the car park) where you can learn more about the history.

Take a stroll to the monument for beautiful views over the loch.

Neptune’s Staircase

Located just north of Loch Linnhe Neptune’s Staircase is a series of 8 locks on the Caledonian Canal. The locks raise the canal by 29 meters and were built by Thomas Telford between 1803 and 1822.

Read – Ultimate Guide to things to do in Fort William

Inverness Travel Guide

Isle of Skye Travel Guide

Scottish Highland Travel Guide

Scotland road trip Itinerary

There are a variety of accommodation options in Fort William to suit every budget. These are my choices of some of the best hotels, lodges and B&Bs based on location and customer reviews.

Fort William Accommodation Quick Picks

Travelodge Fort William

The Garrison

Shelbeck B&B

➡️ Read our area and accommodation guide to Fort William

More special stays – Accommodation Guide for Scotland

• The Wee Fort William Tour – Half Day Tour

4-hour tour of the main attractions of Fort William including Neptune’s Staircase and Inverlochy castle.

• Glenfinnan and the Harry Potter Bridge

This 4-hour tour includes the Glenfinnan Viaduct and visitor centre, Neptune’s Staircase and the Caledonian Canal.

• Scottish Highlands Mountains and Waterfalls Tour

Enjoy this 6-hour tour which includes a scenic drive along beautiful Glen Nevis, mountain gondola to the slopes of Aonach Mor and lunch at the Snowgoose Restaurant.

Our recommendations from a local for the best places to eat in Fort William include

⭐️ Garrison West – 6 Cameron Square, FW, PH33 6AJ

⭐️ Crannog Seafood Restaurant – Town Centre Pier PH33 6DB

⭐️ Inverlochy Castle Hotel Restaurant

⭐️ Lime Tree – Achintore Road PH33 6RQ

⭐️ Glen Nevis Restaurant and Bar – PH33 6SX

⭐️ Black Isle Bar Fort William – craft beers, organic whisky, pizzas and salads ++

⭐️ Nevis Bakery – fabulous sandwiches

🛍🎁 Local tip – Looking for souvenirs from your visit to Fort William? Pop into the Granite House in Fort William – they have a wide selection of fantastic souvenirs for sale!

This guide will provide inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Fort William . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

Aberdeen Travel Guide

St Andrews Travel Guide

Glasgow Travel Guide

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Things to do in Edinburgh

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Scotland Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

FORT WILLIAM SEA TOURS

Stunning scenery,wonderful wildlife

Welcome to Fort William Sea Tours, where we pride ourselves on getting you close to the local wildlife including seals, dolphins, eagles and sea birds, and on providing you with an awesome adventure set in amazing natural scenery.

Our award winning Seafari tours offer you a superb ride around Loch Linnhe, including a visit to the local seal colony and our famous train chase, where we race the Harry Potter Express along the banks of Loch Eil!

Take in the incredible scenery as we glide over the loch – Ben Nevis looms large above Fort William, and the unspoiled wilderness provides a majestic backdrop – golden eagles, sea eagles, otters, deer, dolphins and seals are frequent visitors to these wild shores!

So whether you are looking to join the fun while making new friends, or seeking a private tour for just your group, we can help create incredible memories that will last you a lifetime!

Click on the menu above, or contact us for more details.

email: [email protected]

phone: 07908931709

Share this: