Fort William Holiday Lodge
Planning Your Highland Adventure
Fort William Weather, Daylight Hours, and When to VisitChoosing the best time to visit Fort William depends on your priorities, whether you’re seeking the warmest temperatures for hiking Ben Nevis, the longest daylight hours for exploring, fewer crowds for a tranquil experience, or specific events.
This comprehensive month-by-month guide to the typical weather, daylight hours, visitor patterns, and vegetation will help you decide when to visit Fort William for your ideal holiday.
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When to Visit Fort William, Scotland
Spring
Spring in the West Highlands offers a period of gradual awakening after the quieter winter months. The weather transitions from cooler temperatures and potential lingering snow on higher ground to milder conditions, although it can still be changeable with a mix of sunshine and showers.
Daylight hours increase significantly, offering more time for exploration. Visitor numbers begin to rise from the low winter levels, creating a more vibrant atmosphere without the peak summer crowds.
Key events during spring often revolve around the natural environment coming back to life, with early Highland Games or outdoor activity festivals potentially starting towards the end of the season.
Daylight hours increase significantly, offering more time for exploration. Visitor numbers begin to rise from the low winter levels, creating a more vibrant atmosphere without the peak summer crowds.
Key events during spring often revolve around the natural environment coming back to life, with early Highland Games or outdoor activity festivals potentially starting towards the end of the season.
March in Fort William
March signals the beginning of spring’s arrival in Fort William, although winter’s grip can still be felt, especially earlier in the month. Temperatures slowly start to rise, and the days continue to lengthen, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities.
Average Temperature: Around 5°C (41°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 5-6 sunny days as spring approaches.
Rainy Days: There are typically around 12-14 rainy days, with a mix of rain and potential for some lingering snow, especially on higher elevations.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 07:00, Sunset around 18:00.
Vegetation: Early signs of spring may appear, with some buds starting to show on trees and the first hints of green on lower-lying vegetation. Snow will gradually recede from lower altitudes but will likely remain on the Munros.
How Busy: Visitor numbers start to slightly increase as the days get longer and the weather begins to improve.
What’s going on:
MacAvalanche: This event can fall on this month. Check the Nevis Range for more information
Average Temperature: Around 5°C (41°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 5-6 sunny days as spring approaches.
Rainy Days: There are typically around 12-14 rainy days, with a mix of rain and potential for some lingering snow, especially on higher elevations.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 07:00, Sunset around 18:00.
Vegetation: Early signs of spring may appear, with some buds starting to show on trees and the first hints of green on lower-lying vegetation. Snow will gradually recede from lower altitudes but will likely remain on the Munros.
How Busy: Visitor numbers start to slightly increase as the days get longer and the weather begins to improve.
What’s going on:
MacAvalanche: This event can fall on this month. Check the Nevis Range for more information
April in Fort William
April marks a more noticeable transition to spring in the Highlands. While the weather can still be changeable, you can expect longer days and the gradual return of more vibrant colours to the landscape.
Average Temperature: Around 7°C (45°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 7-8 sunny days.
Rainy Days: An average of 12-13 wet days.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 06:00, Sunset around 20:00.
Vegetation: You’ll see the early signs of spring with fresh green shoots appearing on trees and the first wildflowers beginning to bloom. However, higher elevations, particularly the tops of Munros like Ben Nevis, are likely to retain some snow cover. Night frosts can still occur.
How Busy: Visitor numbers tend to be moderate in April. It’s a shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
What’s going on:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in May.
Keep an eye on when UK schools break up for Easter as these dates will be much busier in Fort William.
Average Temperature: Around 7°C (45°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 7-8 sunny days.
Rainy Days: An average of 12-13 wet days.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 06:00, Sunset around 20:00.
Vegetation: You’ll see the early signs of spring with fresh green shoots appearing on trees and the first wildflowers beginning to bloom. However, higher elevations, particularly the tops of Munros like Ben Nevis, are likely to retain some snow cover. Night frosts can still occur.
How Busy: Visitor numbers tend to be moderate in April. It’s a shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
What’s going on:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in May.
Keep an eye on when UK schools break up for Easter as these dates will be much busier in Fort William.
May in Fort William
May is a beautiful time to visit Fort William as spring is in full swing. The weather generally improves, with warmer temperatures and significantly longer daylight hours, perfect for exploring the stunning scenery.
Average Temperature: Around 10°C (50°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 9-10 sunny days as the weather becomes more settled.
Rainy Days: The number of rainy days typically decreases to around 10-12.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 05:00, Sunset around 21:00.
Vegetation: Spring is in full bloom, with trees in full leaf, wildflowers carpeting the meadows, and the hillsides turning lush green. Snow will be largely confined to the very highest peaks.
How Busy: Visitor numbers start to increase as the weather improves and daylight extends, but it’s still generally less crowded than June, July, and August.
What’s going on:
Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT): This is a major international motorcycle event that typically takes place in the first full week of May, centered around Fort William and Kinlochleven. It brings riders and spectators from all over the world, making the area quite busy with motorcycle enthusiasts.
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in May.
Loch Shiel Spring Festival: This is a regular event in Glenfinnan that often features traditional Scottish music concerts.
Average Temperature: Around 10°C (50°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 9-10 sunny days as the weather becomes more settled.
Rainy Days: The number of rainy days typically decreases to around 10-12.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 05:00, Sunset around 21:00.
Vegetation: Spring is in full bloom, with trees in full leaf, wildflowers carpeting the meadows, and the hillsides turning lush green. Snow will be largely confined to the very highest peaks.
How Busy: Visitor numbers start to increase as the weather improves and daylight extends, but it’s still generally less crowded than June, July, and August.
What’s going on:
Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT): This is a major international motorcycle event that typically takes place in the first full week of May, centered around Fort William and Kinlochleven. It brings riders and spectators from all over the world, making the area quite busy with motorcycle enthusiasts.
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in May.
Loch Shiel Spring Festival: This is a regular event in Glenfinnan that often features traditional Scottish music concerts.
Summer
Summer in the West Highlands marks the peak tourist season, characterized by the warmest temperatures of the year and the longest daylight hours, creating ample time for exploring the stunning landscapes.
While sunshine can be plentiful, the weather remains changeable, and occasional rain showers are still common. The region experiences its highest visitor numbers during these months, resulting in a bustling atmosphere at popular attractions and along trails.
Key events during the summer are plentiful, with numerous Highland Games and Gatherings showcasing traditional Scottish culture, alongside various music festivals, outdoor sporting competitions, and local agricultural shows.
While sunshine can be plentiful, the weather remains changeable, and occasional rain showers are still common. The region experiences its highest visitor numbers during these months, resulting in a bustling atmosphere at popular attractions and along trails.
Key events during the summer are plentiful, with numerous Highland Games and Gatherings showcasing traditional Scottish culture, alongside various music festivals, outdoor sporting competitions, and local agricultural shows.
June in Fort William
June offers some of the longest daylight hours of the year in Fort William, making it ideal for extended hikes and outdoor adventures. The weather is generally pleasant, and the landscape is at its peak of summer greenery.
Average Temperature: Around 13°C (55°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 10-12 sunny days. While rain is still possible, it often comes in shorter spells.
Rainy Days: The average number of rainy days is around 10-11.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 04:30, Sunset around 22:00 (and even later towards the summer solstice).
Vegetation: The vegetation is lush and vibrant, with summer flowers in bloom across the region. The hills are a rich tapestry of green.
How Busy: June marks the start of the peak tourist season, so expect higher visitor numbers, especially around popular attractions and on hiking trails.
What’s going on:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in June.
West Highland Way Race: The West Highland Way Challenge, a 4-day trek, also starts on June 19th, 2025, concluding in Fort William
Average Temperature: Around 13°C (55°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 10-12 sunny days. While rain is still possible, it often comes in shorter spells.
Rainy Days: The average number of rainy days is around 10-11.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 04:30, Sunset around 22:00 (and even later towards the summer solstice).
Vegetation: The vegetation is lush and vibrant, with summer flowers in bloom across the region. The hills are a rich tapestry of green.
How Busy: June marks the start of the peak tourist season, so expect higher visitor numbers, especially around popular attractions and on hiking trails.
What’s going on:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in June.
West Highland Way Race: The West Highland Way Challenge, a 4-day trek, also starts on June 19th, 2025, concluding in Fort William
July in Fort William
July is typically the warmest month in Fort William and also one of the busiest. The days are long, and the conditions are often ideal for exploring the stunning Highland landscapes, although the weather can still be unpredictable.
Average Temperature: Around 15°C (59°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 11-13 sunny days. However, be prepared for changeable weather and occasional showers.
Rainy Days: The average number of rainy days is around 11-12.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 04:45, Sunset around 21:45.
Vegetation: The summer foliage is at its peak, with vibrant colours across the landscape. Heather may start to bloom towards the end of the month.
How Busy: July is the height of the tourist season, so expect large crowds at attractions and on trails. Accommodation and services will be in high demand.
What’s Going On:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in July.
Highland Games: July is a peak month for Highland Games across Scotland
Average Temperature: Around 15°C (59°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 11-13 sunny days. However, be prepared for changeable weather and occasional showers.
Rainy Days: The average number of rainy days is around 11-12.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 04:45, Sunset around 21:45.
Vegetation: The summer foliage is at its peak, with vibrant colours across the landscape. Heather may start to bloom towards the end of the month.
How Busy: July is the height of the tourist season, so expect large crowds at attractions and on trails. Accommodation and services will be in high demand.
What’s Going On:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in July.
Highland Games: July is a peak month for Highland Games across Scotland
August in Fort William
August remains a popular time to visit Fort William, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. The landscape takes on a slightly different hue as summer progresses, and the weather is generally favourable for outdoor activities.
Average Temperature: Around 14°C (57°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 10-12 sunny days, similar to July.
Rainy Days: The average number of rainy days is around 12-13.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 05:30, Sunset around 21:00.
Vegetation: The heather will typically be in full bloom, painting the hillsides in stunning shades of purple. Other summer wildflowers will still be present.
How Busy: August is another peak tourist month, so expect high visitor numbers and busy attractions.
What’s Going On:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in August.
Highland Games: August remains a peak month for Highland Games across the region.
Torlundy Agricultural Show: Takes place on a field very close by to the house, showcasing local livestock, arts, and crafts.
Average Temperature: Around 14°C (57°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 10-12 sunny days, similar to July.
Rainy Days: The average number of rainy days is around 12-13.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 05:30, Sunset around 21:00.
Vegetation: The heather will typically be in full bloom, painting the hillsides in stunning shades of purple. Other summer wildflowers will still be present.
How Busy: August is another peak tourist month, so expect high visitor numbers and busy attractions.
What’s Going On:
Mountain Biking Events: Check the Nevis Range for the events in August.
Highland Games: August remains a peak month for Highland Games across the region.
Torlundy Agricultural Show: Takes place on a field very close by to the house, showcasing local livestock, arts, and crafts.
Autumn
Autumn in the West Highlands brings a dramatic shift in the landscape, with vibrant hues of red, gold, and brown painting the hillsides. The weather transitions to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, with an increasing chance of rain and stronger winds as the season progresses. Visitor numbers gradually decrease after the summer peak, offering a more tranquil experience. Key events during autumn often include walking festivals that take advantage of the stunning foliage, smaller local agricultural shows, and a growing number of indoor cultural events as the weather becomes less predictable.
September in Fort William
September marks the beginning of autumn in the Highlands, with cooler temperatures and a change in the colours of the vegetation. The crowds start to thin out after the summer peak, offering a more tranquil experience of the weather and scenery.
Average Temperature: Around 11°C (52°F)
Sunny Days: The number of sunny days gradually decreases to around 8-9.
Rainy Days: Rainfall amounts may start to increase slightly, with around 12-14 rainy days expected.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 06:30, Sunset around 19:45.
Vegetation: The landscape begins its autumnal transformation, with leaves on trees turning yellow, orange, and brown. The heather will have largely finished blooming.
How Busy: Visitor numbers decrease significantly after the school holidays, offering a quieter experience.
What’s Going On:
Lochaber Live: Expect a lineup of talented musicians with connections to the region, playing to a lively audience. Friday and Saturday will feature ticketed events, with a free family day planned for the Sunday.
Skyline Scotland: For trail running enthusiasts, this significant event returns to Nevis Range, Fort William, on Saturday, September 20th, 2025. It features a variety of races catering to different abilities, from 5km to 100km, including skyrunning and ultra distances.
The Glencoe Half and Full Marathon
The Rat Race Coast to Coast, a 100-mile run, cycle, and kayak event from Glen Nevis and Glen Coe.
Average Temperature: Around 11°C (52°F)
Sunny Days: The number of sunny days gradually decreases to around 8-9.
Rainy Days: Rainfall amounts may start to increase slightly, with around 12-14 rainy days expected.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 06:30, Sunset around 19:45.
Vegetation: The landscape begins its autumnal transformation, with leaves on trees turning yellow, orange, and brown. The heather will have largely finished blooming.
How Busy: Visitor numbers decrease significantly after the school holidays, offering a quieter experience.
What’s Going On:
Lochaber Live: Expect a lineup of talented musicians with connections to the region, playing to a lively audience. Friday and Saturday will feature ticketed events, with a free family day planned for the Sunday.
Skyline Scotland: For trail running enthusiasts, this significant event returns to Nevis Range, Fort William, on Saturday, September 20th, 2025. It features a variety of races catering to different abilities, from 5km to 100km, including skyrunning and ultra distances.
The Glencoe Half and Full Marathon
The Rat Race Coast to Coast, a 100-mile run, cycle, and kayak event from Glen Nevis and Glen Coe.
October in Fort William
October brings more distinct autumnal colours to the Highlands around Fort William, with crisp air and shorter days. It’s a beautiful time for walking and enjoying the scenery in a quieter setting, although the weather can become more unpredictable.
Average Temperature: Around 8°C (46°F)
Sunny Days: Sunny days become less frequent, with around 6-7 expected.
Rainy Days: Rainfall amounts tend to increase, and the weather can become more unsettled, with around 14-16 rainy days.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 07:30, Sunset around 18:30.
Vegetation: Autumn colours are typically at their peak, creating stunning vistas. Deciduous trees display a range of reds, golds, and browns.
How Busy: October sees a further decrease in tourist numbers, offering a more tranquil experience.
Events in October:
The Royal National Mòd, Scotland’s premier Gaelic cultural festival in Oban
Average Temperature: Around 8°C (46°F)
Sunny Days: Sunny days become less frequent, with around 6-7 expected.
Rainy Days: Rainfall amounts tend to increase, and the weather can become more unsettled, with around 14-16 rainy days.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 07:30, Sunset around 18:30.
Vegetation: Autumn colours are typically at their peak, creating stunning vistas. Deciduous trees display a range of reds, golds, and browns.
How Busy: October sees a further decrease in tourist numbers, offering a more tranquil experience.
Events in October:
The Royal National Mòd, Scotland’s premier Gaelic cultural festival in Oban
November in Fort William
November marks the start of late autumn/early winter in the Highlands. Temperatures drop, and the weather can be more challenging, with increased chances of rain, wind, and even early snow, especially on higher ground. Daylight hours are also significantly reduced.
Average Temperature: Around 5°C (41°F)
Sunny Days: Sunny days are less common, with around 3-4 expected, and the days are noticeably shorter.
Rainy Days: Expect a higher number of wet days, around 15-18, and potentially stronger winds. Precipitation may fall as rain, sleet, or snow.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:30, Sunset around 16:30.
Vegetation: Most deciduous trees will have lost their leaves, and the landscape takes on a more stark appearance. Higher elevations may see the first significant snowfall.
How Busy: November is one of the quietest months for tourism in Fort William.
Events in November: Look for potential early Christmas markets or festive events starting towards the end of the month. Some local craft fairs or indoor exhibitions might also take place.
Average Temperature: Around 5°C (41°F)
Sunny Days: Sunny days are less common, with around 3-4 expected, and the days are noticeably shorter.
Rainy Days: Expect a higher number of wet days, around 15-18, and potentially stronger winds. Precipitation may fall as rain, sleet, or snow.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:30, Sunset around 16:30.
Vegetation: Most deciduous trees will have lost their leaves, and the landscape takes on a more stark appearance. Higher elevations may see the first significant snowfall.
How Busy: November is one of the quietest months for tourism in Fort William.
Events in November: Look for potential early Christmas markets or festive events starting towards the end of the month. Some local craft fairs or indoor exhibitions might also take place.
Winter
Winter in the West Highlands presents a stark and often dramatic landscape, characterized by the coldest temperatures of the year, short daylight hours, and a high likelihood of snow and ice, particularly on higher ground. The weather can be challenging and unpredictable, requiring careful preparation for any outdoor activities.
Visitor numbers are at their lowest during this season, offering a very quiet and often solitary experience of the region.
Key events in winter typically revolve around festive celebrations for Christmas and New Year (Hogmanay), with some local winter sports activities potentially taking place if snow conditions are suitable..
Visitor numbers are at their lowest during this season, offering a very quiet and often solitary experience of the region.
Key events in winter typically revolve around festive celebrations for Christmas and New Year (Hogmanay), with some local winter sports activities potentially taking place if snow conditions are suitable..
December in Fort William
December brings winter to the Highlands, with cold temperatures, short days, and a higher likelihood of snow, particularly on the mountains. The festive atmosphere can be appealing, though outdoor activities may be limited by the weather and short daylight hours.
Average Temperature: Around 3°C (37°F)
Sunny Days: Sunny days are rare, with around 2-3 expected, and daylight hours are at their shortest.
Rainy Days: Expect frequent wet days, around 16-19, with precipitation potentially falling as rain, sleet, or snow.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:45, Sunset around 16:00.
Vegetation: The landscape is generally bare, with snow often covering higher ground and sometimes lower elevations. Evergreen trees provide some colour.
How Busy: While generally quiet, Fort William may see a slight increase in visitors around the Christmas and New Year period.
Events in December: Expect Christmas markets, festive celebrations, and New Year’s Eve events (“Hogmanay”) in and around Fort William. Local churches and community halls will likely host Christmas events.
Average Temperature: Around 3°C (37°F)
Sunny Days: Sunny days are rare, with around 2-3 expected, and daylight hours are at their shortest.
Rainy Days: Expect frequent wet days, around 16-19, with precipitation potentially falling as rain, sleet, or snow.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:45, Sunset around 16:00.
Vegetation: The landscape is generally bare, with snow often covering higher ground and sometimes lower elevations. Evergreen trees provide some colour.
How Busy: While generally quiet, Fort William may see a slight increase in visitors around the Christmas and New Year period.
Events in December: Expect Christmas markets, festive celebrations, and New Year’s Eve events (“Hogmanay”) in and around Fort William. Local churches and community halls will likely host Christmas events.
January in Fort William
January is typically the coldest month in Fort William, with short days and a high chance of snow, particularly on higher ground. It’s a time for winter sports enthusiasts prepared for challenging conditions and limited daylight.
Average Temperature: Around 2°C (36°F)
Sunny Days: Approximately 2-3 sunny days on average.
Rainy Days: Expect around 15-18 rainy days, often with precipitation falling as snow or sleet, especially at higher elevations.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:45, Sunset around 16:00.
Vegetation: The landscape is predominantly covered in snow, especially on the mountains. Lower areas may experience periods of frost and ice, with deciduous trees bare.
How Busy: January is generally the quietest month for tourism in Fort William.
Events in January: Keep an eye out for local New Year celebrations potentially extending into early January. Winter mountaineering courses and activities may be available.
Average Temperature: Around 2°C (36°F)
Sunny Days: Approximately 2-3 sunny days on average.
Rainy Days: Expect around 15-18 rainy days, often with precipitation falling as snow or sleet, especially at higher elevations.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:45, Sunset around 16:00.
Vegetation: The landscape is predominantly covered in snow, especially on the mountains. Lower areas may experience periods of frost and ice, with deciduous trees bare.
How Busy: January is generally the quietest month for tourism in Fort William.
Events in January: Keep an eye out for local New Year celebrations potentially extending into early January. Winter mountaineering courses and activities may be available.
February in Fort William
February remains a cold winter month in Fort William, with the potential for snow and icy conditions. Days start to get noticeably longer, offering a bit more daylight for exploring, weather permitting.
Average Temperature: Around 3°C (37°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 3-4 sunny days as daylight hours gradually increase.
Rainy Days: There are typically around 12-15 rainy days, with snow still likely, especially on the hills and mountains.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:00, Sunset around 17:00.
Vegetation: Snow cover may persist, particularly on higher ground. Lower areas will still have a wintery appearance with dormant vegetation.
How Busy: February remains a quiet month for tourism in Fort William, although you might see some visitors interested in winter sports.
Events in February: Look for potential winter festivals or outdoor adventure events that might take place in the region.
What’s Going On: Fort William Mountain Festival
Average Temperature: Around 3°C (37°F)
Sunny Days: Expect around 3-4 sunny days as daylight hours gradually increase.
Rainy Days: There are typically around 12-15 rainy days, with snow still likely, especially on the hills and mountains.
Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise around 08:00, Sunset around 17:00.
Vegetation: Snow cover may persist, particularly on higher ground. Lower areas will still have a wintery appearance with dormant vegetation.
How Busy: February remains a quiet month for tourism in Fort William, although you might see some visitors interested in winter sports.
Events in February: Look for potential winter festivals or outdoor adventure events that might take place in the region.
What’s Going On: Fort William Mountain Festival