Essential Hotels > Scotland > Scottish Highlands > Fort William

Fort William takes up a dramatic position next to the lochs of west Scotland and in the shadow of the United Kingdom’s tallest mountain Ben Nevis. Fort Bill, as it is sometimes referred to, is at the heart of the Lochaber part of the Highlands and is a major resort in the region, as the largest town in this vast part of the country. The Fort proves a great base from which to explore the west Scotland glens, mountains, lakes and islands.

With the Nevis mountain range in close proximity and lochs Eil and Linnhe within view, there is plenty in the way of peace and tranquillity near to Fort William. The views are naturally spectacular, particularly from the tops of the mountains and hills. Sport is also a highlight in the region, with water sports, angling, golf, riding, trekking, climbing and walking opportunities in abundance. Biking is also a popular activity; Fort William holds the mountain bike world cup each year and features an array of downhill tracks. The town markets itself as the outdoor capital of the UK, and it is not hard to see why, given this impressive array of activities and natural attraction.

Although the town is very much a destination in and of itself, Fort William also serves as a connecting point between Glasgow to the south and Inverness to the north. It provides access to the rest of the Highlands and the western Scottish Islands such as Skye and Mull. In addition, the town forms part of the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way.

Fort WilliamFort William is based in what was formerly strong Clan Cameron country and there were a number of settlements in the area. Inverlochy was the main settlement and a fort was built there. It was also the site of the Battle of Inverlochy. The settlement was initially developed to control the population after the invasion during the English Civil War and then the Jacobite uprisings in the 18th century. The town was named after the nearby fort and William of Orange who ruled the country from the late-17th century. Today, Fort William centres around a High Street and a series of squares; there is also a large aluminium plant just outside the town which is poweed by the Lochaber Hydroelectric scheme.

The beauty and scenic nature of Fort William and its surroundings have led to its use in a number of films; it has featured in parts of Harry Potter, Braveheart and Highlander. Further, places to visit while in the area include the West Highland Museum, the Ben Nevis Distillery, the Inverlochy Castle and the Fort William Mountain Festival.