Ben Nevis Bar

Restaurant | Fort William | Scotland | United Kingdom

Traditional Scottish pub Fort William

The Ben Nevis Bar in Fort William, Scotland, is a traditional establishment that has made a name for itself as one of the oldest pubs in the city. Located in the heart of the Highlands, it offers an inviting blend of historic charm and modern Scottish hospitality. Originally built in 1806 as an inn for the drivers of the nearby castle, the bar has evolved over time into a popular meeting place for locals and visitors looking to explore the beauty of the region surrounding Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Great Britain.

Ben Nevis Bar culinary highlights

The ambiance of the Ben Nevis Bar is characterized by a successful combination of traditional Scottish flair and contemporary decor. After a comprehensive renovation, the establishment presents a fresh yet cozy look that echoes the rugged beauty of the Highlands. Particularly noteworthy is the welcoming atmosphere created by warm wood, subtle lighting, and friendly service. For nice weather, there is a terrace that offers a splendid view of the nearby Loch Linnhe—ideal for relaxing after a day in the mountains.

Whisky bar in the Highlands

Culinary offerings at the Ben Nevis Bar emphasize regional ingredients and freshly prepared dishes. Highlights include haggis, a Scottish classic served here in a particularly flavorful version, often accompanied by a spicy whisky sauce. Fresh salmon, sourced directly from the waters of the Highlands, is also popular, delicately cooked and served on the plate. For meat lovers, the Highland Burger is a must-try—a juicy burger made with locally sourced beef, complemented by hearty sides and homemade sauces. Seafood fans can indulge in freshly caught mussels, served in a light white wine sauce that perfectly captures the taste of the sea.

Live music events Fort William

In addition to the food, the Ben Nevis Bar is particularly known for its extensive drink selection. The whisky bar is a paradise for lovers of Scotland’s national drink, featuring an impressive collection of malts from various regions of Scotland. The staff is not only friendly but also knowledgeable—guests can receive recommendations on which whisky best suits their taste or pairs well with their meal. For those who prefer lighter options, there is a selection of local beers and ales to complete the offering.

Dog friendly restaurant Scotland

Another hallmark of the establishment is the regular live music, which creates a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. From traditional Scottish tunes to modern interpretations, the Ben Nevis Bar provides a stage for local talents, fostering a vibrant setting that is perfect for unwinding after a day full of outdoor activities. Fort William is known as the gateway to the Highlands and for adventures such as hikes up Ben Nevis, and the bar leverages this location to delight guests with a mix of hospitality and culture.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
103 High St
PH33 6DG Fort William

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday12:00 - 23:00
Monday12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 1:00
Saturday12:00 - 1:00

Reviews

2750 Reviews

Cristian Rossi
09.03.2025

Ci siamo fermati a pranzo nel ritorno verso Edimburgo. Gamberi impanati fatti in casa eccezionali!
Rich Bromley
06.03.2025

Great Restaurant/Bar with fantastic views of the water. Only stopped for a quick alcoholic refreshment. Good selection of beers and may well come back for food at some point.
Connie Culmer
03.03.2025

Absolutely beautiful service, beautiful food and really good value for money! We had a stunning time here on our holiday to Scotland and would definitely recommend to everyone visiting Fort William, whether you are climbing the mountain or just here for the beautiful views and people. 🩷
Joshua Turrell
03.03.2025

Amazing staff, amazing atmosphere, food was unreal and cooked ti perfection. loved every moment of my dining experience
Jonny
01.03.2025

Best place in Fort William for a vegan evening meal
John Stuart
20.02.2025

I've been in Scotland for two trips now accumulating 17 days. This is by far the greatest dining and bar experience I have had. Leslie & Guy have created an excellent atmosphere. The food was the best I have had in my life, no exaggeration. The friendliness of the staff and owners was beyond comprehensible. I cannot speak highly enough of my experience. Good people in the owners, be sure to meet them.
Nicolas Dagoneau
24.02.2025

Very good restaurant. We went two times. We tried the pie, the Lochaber chicken and the venison lasagna. It was delicious. They also have a very complete list of whiskies. The atmosphere is very cosy and the staff is really nice.
Niall Palmer
21.02.2025

Dropped in for a drink, or four, after dinner and had the best time. Bar staff are absolutely brilliant. Good prices. Excellent atmosphere and really enjoyed talking Whisky. We will absolutely be returning and making sure we eat here too as the food smelt incredible. If you visit FW you MUST visit the Ben Nevis Bar.
Lucas Teixeira
17.02.2025

Amazing pub, food and the staff were very kind.
Thomas von Frommannshausen
15.02.2025

Great place. Felt like a 'Home away from home' . Both the barkeeps as well as the patrons were simply nice to a stranger. Thanks!
Manish Mehra
15.02.2025

Beautiful place
Rebecca Simmons
13.02.2025

Great vibes, cosy fire and delicious beer
Sally Graham
13.02.2025

A lovely pub with a real fire and massive windows looking out to see. Well established and dog friendly crowd. The food was superb - venison lasagne delicious - the staff were terrific. We had a great time and recommend it highly.
Virginia Martinig
08.02.2025

Ambiance chaleureuse, service impeccable
Hiram Dunn
06.02.2025

Had the venison ragu lasagne, was amazing, the food and service is top class, well worth going.
Kaitlyn Kline
02.02.2025

We sadly only wandered down here after already having dinner, or else we would have loved eating here! We still got drinks and dessert and loved spending a relaxing evening by the fire!
Laura Donaldson
31.01.2025

Staff all friendly and very helpful. Food options great and gluten free options available
Norman Ekins-Bell
25.01.2025

Came in on burns night and the tall gent who seated us was very nice and friendly also the waitresses. Once the food came i was in heaven with my Haggis neaps and tatties one of the best meals iv ever had. Bloody good food and good atmosphere can't wait to come back.
Samantha N
25.01.2025

Went here for dinner on a weekend break in fort William. Food was very nice and absolutely no complaints. Pie was delicious and mash and veg were also very good. Staff were lovely and friendly Would definitely recommend a visit if your in fort William
ALFREDO JOSE MALAVE DIAZ
24.01.2025

Momento memorable que recordaré toda mi vida, pasé allí la noche vieja de 2024 con mi pareja y amigos y la pasamos increíble.
Nick Simpson
23.01.2025

Lovely place nice selection of food and drink and very friendly hosts. Take a coat when it cold unless you can get by the fire but can't wait to be back in Fort William so call in for dinner again soon
Greg Greer
22.01.2025

The worst fish and chips I’ve ever had in a pub!!! Sooooo poor
Karethra Bex
20.01.2025

The atmosphere is a bit tense. There are tables placed directly in the pathway of the entrance so I'm order to move further into the restaurant, if anyone is sitting at those tables (there were when we arrived) you cannot get passed without bumping. It seems they reserve the front of the restaurant near the door and very tight crowded area for tourists which is understandable, but doesn't make a very good first impression when you can't get to the seat without bumping others on the way due to the extreme closeness of the tables and chairs. The food was served hot, which was nice. The garlic bread was tasty. However, the Mac and cheese should have been named mash and cheese as the noodles were so very over cooked they were simply mush. The taste was rather bland as well. Service could be helped by having more than one person serving and taking orders. They did have the person at the bar eventually start to help as it appeared the server couldn't keep up. The tile flooring also has breaks which could cause trouble if someone is using a cane and doesn't see them whilst moving about.

 

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