Fort William

With its stunning position on Loch Linnhe, tucked in below the snow-streaked bulk of Ben Nevis, the important regional centre of Fort William (often known as “Fort Bill”), should be a gem.

Sadly, the same lack of taste that nearly saw the town renamed “Abernevis” in the 1950s is evident in the ribbon bungalow development and dual carriageway – complete with grubby pedestrian underpass – which have wrecked the waterfront. The main street and the little squares off it are more appealing, though occupied by some decidedly tacky tourist gift shops.

Still, Fort William is a great base for accessing more interesting places such as Ben Nevis and Glen Coe, as well as a convenient stop on the way to the Scottish Highlands or the Isle of Skye. If you are planning to stay the night, find your accommodation in Fort William here.