Milo Boyd, a Digital Travel journalist, specializes in reporting on aviation updates, environmental issues, the cruise sector, travel advice, budget-friendly vacation ideas, and inspiring global journeys.
It’s quite revealing that when looking for the ‘top five activities in Fort William,’ only one of them is actually within the town itself, according to search results.
During my time in Reading, Berkshire, I found it amusing that the highest-rated attraction on Tripadvisor was the train station. This situation often led to jokes about enjoying the place more by leaving it.
Fort William, recently named the best staycation destination in the UK, faces a similar scenario. One of the recommended activities for visitors in the Loch Linnhe area is exploring Steall Waterfall & Glen Nevis, located at least seven miles away from Fort William.
The renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct is also on the list, situated 16 miles from the town. While Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain, looms over the town of 15,000 residents, it is actually not within the town.
Supporters of Fort William argue that it’s close enough, serving more as a gateway to the Highlands than a standalone destination.
Despite the location nuances, I disagree with Fort William being labeled the top autumn staycation spot in the UK, as awarded by Sykes Holiday Cottages. Having visited multiple times, I find it lacking compared to the stunning landscapes further north in the Highlands and the charming villages like Glenelg, Mallaig, and Ullapool.
Fort William shares a somewhat dreary architectural style with Aberdeen, nicknamed ‘the City of Granite.’ Both cities exude a somber vibe, akin to a perpetual Sunday feeling.
For me, the standout attractions in Fort William are Morrisons, a notable supermarket offering regional pastries, and Grog and Gruel, a cozy alehouse known for its delicious food and pig-themed merchandise.
However, I maintain that these highlights are insufficient for Fort William to hold the title of the best autumn staycation spot, especially in a country that boasts cities like York, Edinburgh, and Bath.
Previous surveys have also reflected mixed sentiments about Fort William. In May 2024, it was rated among the least favored holiday destinations in the UK, scoring poorly in various categories such as food, accommodation, shopping, and ease of navigation.
Although Fort William has well-regarded restaurants, some establishments have been criticized for being overpriced and subpar. The town’s main road has drawn complaints for being noisy, and certain publications have described it as unattractive.
Scotland Off the Beaten Track’s description of Fort William’s center highlights its lack of visual appeal, mentioning an unsightly shopping arcade and a noisy road hindering access to the esplanade and Old Fort.
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