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Written by Robert Clarke - 09 Sep 2007
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Location notes
The capital of the West Highlands, Fort William nestles below Ben Nevis, on the West Highland Line. The station dates from 1975, when the line was cut back about a 1/4 mile, to its present location, to relieve the cramped conditions of the original lochside station. The space thus gained, allowed for the building of a bypass round the town centre, eradicating all evidence of the old station. The new location is still within easy reach of the town centre, and offers 4 tracks (inclding two sidings), a presently disused motorail ramp, and a small bus station.
For a look at the original Fort Wiliam Station, including pictures after closure, please go to the Fort William entry on the disused stations website.
Railway type and traffic
The West Highland Line produces First Scotrail trains, working from Glasgow Queen Street - Mallaig. These are operated by class 156 Sprinter units. There is also the Fort William - London Euston sleeper, hauled by an DB Schenker class 67s. This will usually, consist of 2 sleeping cars, a seated car, and a lounge car.
Some freight trains may also come into the station, usually platform 1, to run round there trains, as the line to Glasgow can only be accessed by going via Fort William station. Usual traction is an DB Schenker 66.
During the summer, the Jacobite steam train, operated by West Coast Railway Company, provides a vintage service.
Environment
The West Highlands can produce all weathers, so do be prepared. Fort William is, otherwise, a pretty safe place, but always take the necessary precautions, with regards to security.
The West Highlands are also Midge territory, so be warned.
Road directions
Fort William is well signposted off the A82 road. Once in the outskirts, follow signs for 'Town Centre', and then for station. Once near there, go round the roundabout, and head into Morrisons Car Park. From there, walk to the end of the car park, and cross the bus lane carefully, to reach the station.

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Fort William Station map co-ordinates
Parking
There is a station car park (chargable), but you can leave your car in Morrisons car park, for a maximum of three hours for free.
Public transport
Bus services are provided by Citylink and Rapsons. For Rapsons bus times, contact traveline on 0870 608 2 608.
First Scotrail provides all passenger trains, where you can also get details of the sleeper.

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Amenities
The station has toilets, and a cafe, though these are only open when the station is open. There are plenty of other facilities in the town centre. Morrisons do a good breakfast in their cafe.
Accommodation
Fort William is a tourist resort, so there should be a good supply of accommodation. There is a travel inn located a short walk from the station.

Fort William plays host to a round of the UCI Mountain biking world cup every year. The dates can vary, and during this event, roads may be restricted, or accommodation could be harder to find. For exact dates, best to contact tourist information, or to visit the website of cycling world governing body, the UCI.
Sun Compass
Sun Compass using Suncalc by brought to you by Vladimir Agafonkin:
It might be necessary to adjust the time to suit your visit, this link should open with the current day.
Fort William Station

Googly map
Streetmap links
Fort William Station general view map
Fort William Station close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Fort William Station



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Railway Gen Group
scot-rail.co.uk
Photographic notes
The weather is changeable, so be prepared for all types of weather! The station has a canopy, covering part of the platform, and this may affect shots.
There is some noise, but this should not interfere with videos.


General views - All photographs © Robert Clarke unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking east


Fig 1 - Looking east


Fig 2 - Looking north


Fig 2 - Looking north


Fig 3 - Looking west


Fig 3 - Looking west


Fig 4 - Looking west


Fig 4 - Looking west

The rear of the stabled sleeper from the Morrisons Car Park

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