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.

Rough Guides Editors

written by
Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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