Fort William: A Town Divided by Love and Neglect

The town of Fort William, located in the Scottish Highlands, has become a focal point of contrasting opinions. While some visitors describe it as “one of my favourite places in the world,” others criticize it as “neglected,” leading to a significant divide in perception. This stark contrast has sparked debates among locals and tourists alike, with many expressing strong feelings about the town’s appeal and shortcomings.

Exploring the views of residents and visitors reveals a complex picture. Sarah Campbell, a local from Banavie, stated, “The best place is the road out of it. It is so neglected it’s a disgrace.” Another anonymous resident echoed this sentiment, noting that while the high street has improved with new shops and cafes, much of the town’s architecture, primarily from the 1960s and 1970s, lacks charm. “The main street has no outlook at all to the loch,” they added, highlighting a sense of dissatisfaction with the town’s overall aesthetic.

In contrast, many others celebrate Fort William’s offerings. Carmen Beale, who has lived in the area for over a decade, expressed her appreciation for the town, stating, “The fresh air, the scenery, and the local people make it a very pleasant place to live.” Mark Brady, a frequent visitor from Birmingham, also praised the community, saying, “The locals are absolutely the best people I’ve encountered on a holiday; many have become forever friends.”

Despite the mixed reviews, recent surveys provide further insights into Fort William’s standing as a holiday destination. In May 2024, a survey conducted by Which? ranked Fort William among the UK’s least impressive holiday spots, scoring only two out of five for food, accommodation, and shopping. Some visitors described local eateries as “overpriced” and criticized the town’s aesthetics.

Yet, not all assessments are negative. A more recent survey by Sykes Holiday Cottages crowned Fort William as the UK’s best autumn staycation destination for 2025, citing its reputation as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK.” James Shaw, Chief Commercial Officer at Sykes, remarked, “It’s no wonder that Fort William is so popular with travellers from Edinburgh thanks to its rich attractions and stunning scenery.”

Mary Philip, project manager for the Fort William Business Improvement District (BID), emphasized the town’s diverse offerings. “Fort William is one of the most exciting destinations in the UK,” she remarked. Families can explore the Nevis Centre and the West Highland Museum, while adventure seekers can tackle Ben Nevis or enjoy activities at Loch Linnhe. Philip also highlighted the town’s vibrant events, including the Six Day Trials and the Ben Nevis Race, which draw visitors from far and wide.

Local businesses are benefiting from ongoing support through initiatives like Property Improvement Grants, aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and boosting the local economy. Angus MacDonald, the Liberal Democrat MP for Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shire, defended Fort William’s appeal, stating, “The bones of Fort William high street are really good. There are some really nice shops and good pubs. The Highland Cinema was voted best cinema in Britain in 2023.”

Despite its strengths, challenges remain. Some visitors note that many of Fort William’s most famous attractions, such as Steall Waterfall and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, are located several miles away. Critics argue that while Ben Nevis is a major draw, it “towers over the town” rather than being directly associated with it.

With a population of around 15,000, Fort William is the second-largest settlement in the Highlands, following Inverness. As a hub for outdoor activities and cultural experiences, it continues to attract both admiration and criticism. Whether viewed as a “neglected” town or a “true gem,” Fort William remains a captivating subject of discussion, reflecting the diverse perceptions of those who visit or reside there.

The debate surrounding Fort William is far from resolved, and perhaps this ongoing dialogue is what makes the town so intriguing to both locals and tourists alike.