Fort William is about to host a UCI World Cup mountain biking championship, one of only 10 in the UCI calendar.
The return of the event for the first time since 2019 underlines the town’s reputation as a mountain bike hot-spot. But it is also a great place to eat.
From traditional pubs to the height of fine dining, there are culinary delights for all tastes.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best cafes and restaurants in the Fort William area to give you a guide to eating. Soap factories and cinemas play a part in a divergent restaurant scene that caters to everyone.
So even if you are not in town to mountain bike, it’s well worth checking out these great places for a meal in Fort William.
Highland Cinema
The independently-owned Highland Cinema in Fort William is one of the most interesting additions to the town’s restaurant scene in the past few years.
Opened by Lochaber man Angus MacDonald, the venue is – as the name suggests – a cinema. But it also contains a first-rate restaurant that seats a large number underneath a cathedral-style ceiling.
Old film clips relating to the area are projected on to a large screen, and the bar mixes special cocktails depending on what film is showing.
Pizzas and platters are the order of the day at this fun, vibrant spot.
Address: Highland Cinema, Cameron Square, Fort William, PH33 6AJ
Inverlochy Castle
If you are looking for fine dining then Inverlochy Castle is THE spot in Fort William.
Its restaurant is overseen by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr, and though the price of a five-course set meal – £125 per person – may make your eyes water, it is the ultimate experience in the area.
Guests start their night off with a glass of Champagne or a custom-designed cocktail in the castle lobby.
They will also be able to watch one of the chefs finish off a variety of canapes before moving on to the five-course meal.
Address: Torlundy, Fort William, PH33 6SN
Crannog Restaurant
This seafood specialist is right on the harbour so has some of the best views in town.
And underneath the distinctive red roof, Crannog Restaurant serves up some of the best Scottish seafood in Fort William.
The restaurant’s famous cruises are not running at the moment, but there’s plenty to look at out of the window to keep you occupied as you dine.
Address: Town Centre Pier, Fort William, PH33 6DB
The Grog & Gruel
Open for more than three decades, The Grog & Gruel has plenty of experience in serving up traditional pub grub to hungry hikers and walkers.
The central alehouse and restaurant is dog-friendly and has a well-stocked whisky bar, so it’s the perfect place to swap travellers’ tales at the end of a long day.
Also, you can choose to eat in the pub, or from 5pm in the restaurant, which makes a range of dishes including fajitas.
Address: 66 High St, Fort William, PH33 6AD
Lochleven Seafood Cafe
Boasting stunning Highland views out of its large windows, Lochleven Seafood Cafe, earned a place in the Michelin guide this year.
The guide rewarded the family-run establishment and deli for the quality of its Scottish seafood, which is caught locally by the team’s own fishing boats.
The catch is then kept in seawater tanks in the adjacent shellfish distribution centre.
Seafood fans are in for a rare treat at this place, which is a short drive from Fort William.
Address: Lochleven, Onich, PH33 6SA
Highland Soap Company Larder Cafe
Owner Emma Parton employs 50 staff in her soap factory. But many visitors are as keen to eat in the restaurant as they are to buy soap.
Out of the windows are fine views of Ben Nevis. And on the menu are a selection of cakes, soups and seafood and charcuterie boards.
Indeed, few of those that eat at the Highland Soap Company will fail to clean their plates.
Address: Inverlochy Mains, North Rd, Fort William, PH33 6TQ
