Best Things to Do in Fort William & the Scottish Highlands

Local Guide

Fort William is known as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK”, sitting at the foot of Ben Nevis and surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the Scottish Highlands.

From climbing Britain’s highest mountain to exploring Glenfinnan, Glencoe and the Road to the Isles, there’s an incredible range of things to do within easy reach of the town.

Here’s our local guide to the best things to do during your stay at Guisachan Guesthouse.

Glencoe in June
  • Climb Ben Nevis
  • Walk Glen Nevis / Steall Falls
  • Great Glen Way

Without doubt, the most well known hike is the route up and down Ben Nevis.  Britain’s highest mountain is a challenge, even if taking the most well used path to the top as it’s around 8km of relentless uphill (especially after the half-way point), and even in summer there can still be snow at the top which presents more of a challenge under foot.

For the adventurous explorer there is also the CMD Arrete, which is more challenging due to the precarious nature of the final route to the summit, the “path” being a virtual knife edge requiring nerves of steel!

For something less challenging, but equally beautiful in its own way is the hike to Steall Falls along the Nevis gorge.  The path leads you through some stunning scenery, and then as you clear the last section of boulder strewn gorge the vista opens before you with the waterfall in the distance tumbling some 120m from the rocky mountains.

Dare to try the steel rope bridge across the river!

Steall Falls across the glen
The walk up Ben Nevis 16

Great ideas for things to do in Fort William

Are you wondering what things to do there are in Fort William? There are many incredible things to see and do in and around Fort William and the stunning region of Lochaber. If you’re an outdoorsy sort of person who enjoys nature and adventure, Fort William truly is the ideal base for having a fantastic time in this magnificent country, offering endless opportunities for exploration and unforgettable experiences in its beautiful landscapes.

Grey Mares waterfall

Grey Mares Waterfall

Grey Mare’s Waterfall, Kinlochleven If you’re looking for a lovely and accessible waterfall in the Highlands, you can’t miss the Grey Mare’s waterfall (or Grey...

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✅ Iconic Attractions

  • Jacobite Steam Train
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct
  • Nevis Range gondola
  • Glencoe Mountain

✅ Easy & Scenic Options

  • Caledonian Canal walks
  • Loch Linnhe cruises
  • Short forest walks

✅ Day Trips from Fort William

  • Glencoe
  • Road to the Isles
  • Ardnamurchan / West Coast

✅ Rainy Day / Relaxed Ideas

  • West Highland Museum
  • Local distillery visit
  • Cafés / cinema

Museum of the West Highlands

Are you on the lookout for some enjoyable activities to try in Fort William that won’t leave you feeling overly fatigued?

Why not take a leisurely visit to our charming local museum, conveniently located in Cameron Square?

The West Highland Museum is overflowing with a diverse range of fascinating exhibits that vividly convey the remarkable stories and rich history of our region.

Best of all, entry is absolutely free, making it easy for you to spend an entire afternoon delighting in the various displays as you explore the many aspects of local culture and heritage!

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the past while enjoying a relaxed day out.

How about a leisurely stroll to Corpach (about 5km) along the River Nevis taking in some stunning views of Ben Nevis and out across Loch Linnhe.

On the way you can take a look at Old Inverlochy Castle, stop for a coffee at the Highland Soap Company shop and then across Soldiers Bridge on on to Corpach along the newly built riverside footpath via Caol village.

At the end, you will be able to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and have lunch at An Cafaidh Mara.

Leisurely stroll to Corpach basin and the end of the Caledonian Canal

Test your climbing skills!

For indoor adventure there’s always Three Wise Monkeys climbing wall to test your climbing skills.

Welcome aboard Loch Linnhe Cruises – your ticket to an amazing adventure around the stunning Loch Linnhe!

Our journey begins at the lovely pier by the southern end of the High Street and will take you north to Corpach, then back south past the charming town and onwards to Corran. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating stories about the geology and history of this beautiful area. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for adorable local wildlife like porpoises and seals – they just might join us on our adventure!

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Loch Linnhe

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