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We’d love to tell you that when you stay with us you’ll get sunshine and blue skies every single day, but chances are you’ll get the odd rainy day. This is Scotland, after all. Fort William may be the outdoor capital of the UK, jam-packed with amazing hiking and biking locations, but luckily, there’s also loads to do when it’s raining.
Here’s our pick of rainy day activities.
3 Wise Monkeys Indoor Climbing, Fassifern Rd, Fort William
If you’re craving your fix of action, the weather needn’t scupper your plans. Keen climbers will love the varied and quality routes at 3 Wise Monkeys Indoor Climbing, while the whole family can have a go at bouldering together. There’s also a yoga studio where you might just be able to catch a slot on a class. They’re well known for their cracking coffee and good food, so you can refresh and revive at their café, Fort Coffee Collective, afterwards.
Highland Cinema, Cameron Square, Fort William
With two state-of-the-art cinema theatres of different sizes, Highland Cinema is proud to show not only the big Hollywood blockbusters but more interesting independent titles too. Their cosy café bar serves up a broad range of delicious food, ranging from coffee and pastries to gourmet pizza, salads, charcuterie and much more. The bar has a focus on drinks of Scottish origin, be it beer, gin, or, of course, whisky!
Treasures of the Earth, Corpach, Fort William
This atmospheric simulation of caves, caverns and mining scenes is just the thing when it’s pouring down. Treasures of the Earth hosts one of Europe’s finest collections of crystals, gemstones and fossils. The UV cave is loads of fun, making all the crystals glow and change colour. Some of the fossils are over 500 million years old and you can touch amethyst geodes over 7 feet tall.
Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre, North Rd, Fort William
These guys are just a short walk from Ben Nevis Holiday Park so they’re perfect for a short notice plan B if the weather doesn’t go your way. You might think soap doesn’t sound that thrilling but this place is an absolute gem. Set in six acres of grounds, you can get your hands clean making your own bespoke soap, take a tour of their amazing workshop where you can sample their gorgeous botanicals and scents, treat yourself to a little something from their factory shop then refuel in their fabulous Larder Café.
Lochaber Geopark Visitor Centre, High Street, Fort William
No doubt on drier days you’ll be out exploring the incredible local landscapes, and you can’t fail to notice the fascinating colours and formations of the rock and wonder why they are that way. Lochaber Geopark Visitor Centre can help you understand the very long and special geological history of Lochaber, from its mountains to its glens and islands. It’s great for kids, who can dig for fossils and get hands-on with their i-sandbox where they can build volcanoes, rivers, go on a safari or make the land freeze. Book a guided geotour for or pick up one of their geotrail leaflets and do your own when the weather improves.
West Highland Museum, High Street, Fort William
Soak up some Scottish History of another kind at the West Highland Museum. It’s home to an unusual collection of artefacts from the West Highland’s past, including Bonnie Prince Charlie’s silk waistcoat, Rob Roy’s sporran, and the bagpipes played at Bannockburn in 1314. There’s a superb range of Jacobite weapons and medals, and of course a shop too, specialising in Scottish books, Jacobite glassware, silver jewellery and more.
Lochaber Leisure Centre, Belford Rd, Fort William
If you’re keen to burn off some excess energy, head on over to this great little leisure centre conveniently located in Fort William town centre. The pool offers early morning lane swimming, family-friendly sessions and fun hours, plus there’s a smaller hydrotherapy pool. Set to around 33°C, a soak in this can help your muscles to relax and ease any joint pain. In addition, there’re two glass-backed squash courts – call to book.
Cook up some local produce
All of our caravans, glamping pods and lodges are kitted out with great little kitchens, perfect for rustling up some delicious Scottish fayre! We’ve got some fantastic local suppliers nearby, so why not get creative and cook up something delicious as a family, group or couple. Themed nights with lots of dishes to share are always fun, so if you don’t fancy Scottish, how about ‘build your own’ fajitas/ tacos, colourful Spanish tapas-style dishes or maybe a Greek-style mezze. Then everyone can dig in!
Movie Night
When it’s pouring down there’s nothing quite like cosying up for a movie night – or even an all-day marathon! Get the blankets, the hot chocolate and the popcorn and snuggle up together up to enjoy your favourites. Many a film has been shot around the West Highlands, from several key scenes in the Harry Potter series to Mel Gibson’s Braveheart, so why not choose these for your Highland Holidays Film Night?
So there you have it – you’re actually spoilt for choice for fun things to do in Fort Williams – whatever the weather.
All information correct at time of writing. Please check opening hours and booking requirements in advance.