West Highland Way endpoint (Sore Feet Statue) - Image 1
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West Highland Way End Sore Feet Statue Fort William

4.8
·49 reviews·Fort William, United Kingdom

The iconic end of the West Highland Way, marking a triumphant journey through Scotland's breathtaking Highlands.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May & September

Fewer crowds, better weather

CrowdLow
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West Highland Way endpoint (Sore Feet Statue) - Image 1

West Highland Way End Sore Feet Statue Fort William

Best Time

May & September

Fewer crowds, better weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The iconic end of the West Highland Way, marking a triumphant journey through Scotland's breathtaking Highlands.

4.8
(49 reviews)

"The West Highland Way is a life-changing long-distance hike through Scotland's stunning landscapes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Celebrate Your Achievement

Grab a meal and drink at a nearby pub to toast your West Highland Way completion.

🦟 Midge repellent is key!

Don't let these tiny insects ruin your experience. Pack strong repellent!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

West Highland Way Finish Line

West Highland Way Finish Line

Fort William

The iconic end point for hikers of the West Highland Way, marking a significant achievement.

Reddit
Ben Nevis Views

Ben Nevis Views

Fort William

Glimpse the UK's highest peak, Ben Nevis, offering dramatic backdrops to your post-hike celebrations.

TikTok
Nevis Range Gondola

Nevis Range Gondola

Near Fort William

Ride the UK's only mountain gondola for stunning panoramic views of the Highlands. Dog-friendly too!

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Finish Line

Fort William marks the end of the West Highland Way, but don't expect a grand fanfare. The 'statue' is more of a marker, and the real celebration often happens at nearby pubs. Pack comfortable shoes for the final stretch and beyond!

Weather & Midges: Be Ready

The Scottish Highlands are beautiful but unpredictable. Pack layers for all conditions, even in summer. Midges can be a nuisance, so bring insect repellent, especially for evenings and damp areas. TikTok

Best Times

When
May & September
Why
Fewer crowds, better weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and midges
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A long long long way up🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Fort William isnt really for me. I absolutely love the Highlands but Fort William is like an island of business within it. #fortwilliam #thehighlands #highlands #Scotland #PlacesToVisit #britishhumour #ukcomedy #satire
@philc84
46.8K likes • 620.3K views

🎯 Celebrate Your Achievement

Grab a meal and drink at a nearby pub to toast your West Highland Way completion. Reddit

🦟 Midge repellent is key!

Don't let these tiny insects ruin your experience. Pack strong repellent! Instagram

Here’s how to spend a weekend up in the Highlands of Scotland. You will want to stay in Inverlochy Castle near Fort William and then head off exploring one of the most beautiful places in Scotland and here’s why and how to do it #Scotland #ScottishHighlands #Travel #FortWilliams #Castle
@handluggageonly
9.2K likes • 103.7K views
Day 8 & DONE! 🥾 WHW I kicked your ass! Kinlochleven ➝ Fort William | ~28 km 154 km down, 0 to go!! 🥹 Today was one of the hardest days! The trail felt like it would never end, but step by step I pushed through…and finally reached the finish line in Fort William! Technically the map said 22km but according to my Garmin I did about 28km today.. and my legs can confirm every single one of them 😅....
teodoracindea
208 likes • 0 views

🥾 Pack for all weather

Layers are essential. Expect sun, rain, and wind, sometimes all in one day. TikTok

📸 Capture the moment

The finish line might be simple, but the journey and surrounding scenery are unforgettable. TikTok

West Highland Way 154km recommended and approved by @chrisofra 🙏🏼 Scotland 2/2 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
nikls_mrtz
156 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Celebrate Your Achievement

Grab a meal and drink at a nearby pub to toast your West Highland Way completion. Reddit

🦟 Midge repellent is key!

Don't let these tiny insects ruin your experience. Pack strong repellent! Instagram

🥾 Pack for all weather

Layers are essential. Expect sun, rain, and wind, sometimes all in one day. TikTok

📸 Capture the moment

The finish line might be simple, but the journey and surrounding scenery are unforgettable. TikTok

⛺ Wild camping options

Scotland's 'right to roam' allows legal wild camping on the West Highland Way. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(49 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The West Highland Way is celebrated for its stunning Highland scenery and the immense sense of accomplishment upon reaching Fort William. While the finish line itself is described as anticlimactic by some, the overall journey is highly praised. Potential downsides include challenging terrain and the infamous Scottish midges.

"Great trail through fantastic scenery. My shins were glad to reach the end though! If you enjoy long distance walking, then give it a go!"

Donna W

"I did the walk back in May, in fantastic weather conditions but never did a review.
So here it is!
I feel that they’ve done a good job creating this start/ending with a great feature of the Line and trail map in the floor.
Once you finish you can grab a great meal and beverage very nearby and talk about your adventures
Good luck or congratulations on your journey"

Paul Tooze (No Journey Too Small)

"It was nice to see the end but very anticlimactic. You still had a little walk to get to the state on Main Street in Ft William though. Just a sign saying you did it and to go inside the store for a certificate."

M H

What People Like

Incredible Highland scenery
Sense of achievement
Wild camping opportunities

What People Dislike

Anticlimactic finish
Midges
Sore feet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fort William is accessible by train and bus. Many hikers arrive via coach after completing the trail. Reddit If driving, there are parking options, but consider logistics for your vehicle if you're hiking the full route.

Yes, Fort William is a popular hub for exploring the Scottish Highlands, offering access to Ben Nevis and Glencoe. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The West Highland Way itself is a public path and free to walk. There's no specific ticket for the finish line marker in Fort William. Reddit

Some local businesses in Fort William offer certificates upon completion of the West Highland Way. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The official end point is marked by a statue and trail map on the street in Fort William. It's a simple marker, with celebrations often continuing in nearby establishments. Reddit

After completing the West Highland Way, relax at a local pub, enjoy views of Ben Nevis, or take the Nevis Range gondola for stunning scenery. TikTok+1

The West Highland Way is typically walked over 5 to 8 days, covering approximately 154 km (96 miles). TikTok+1

Yes, Fort William offers a range of accommodation, including B&Bs, hotels, and hostels, suitable for weary hikers. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Several pubs and restaurants are conveniently located near the finish line, offering hearty meals and drinks to celebrate your accomplishment. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture your triumphant finish at the statue, then seek out views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding dramatic Highland landscapes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the West Highland Way itself is a strenuous trek, Fort William offers family-friendly activities. The Nevis Range gondola provides an accessible way for families to enjoy breathtaking Highland views without a strenuous hike. TikTok Consider shorter walks in the surrounding areas or a scenic boat trip on Loch Linnhe. Fort William also has amenities like cafes and shops where families can relax after a day of exploring. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The West Highland Way is excellent for budget travelers, especially with the option of wild camping, which is legal in Scotland under 'leave no trace' principles. TikTok+1 Hostels and B&Bs in Fort William offer more affordable accommodation options compared to hotels. TikTok+1 Packing your own food and snacks can also significantly reduce costs, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty without breaking the bank.

🚶 Solo Adventurers

The West Highland Way is a popular choice for solo hikers, offering a sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers. TikTokInstagram+1 Scotland's 'right to roam' facilitates solo wild camping, providing a truly immersive experience. TikTokInstagram While the trail is well-marked, it's always wise to be prepared with navigation tools and inform someone of your itinerary. Fort William provides a safe and welcoming environment to rest and resupply before or after your solo adventure. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The West Highland Way Experience

The West Highland Way is Scotland's most famous long-distance trail, stretching approximately 154 km (96 miles) from Milngavie to Fort William. It's renowned for its breathtaking scenery, taking hikers through diverse landscapes including the shores of Loch Lomond, the rugged Rannoch Moor, and the dramatic mountains of Glen Coe. TikTok+1 Many hikers choose to wild camp along the route, taking advantage of Scotland's 'right to roam' laws, while others opt for the comfort of B&Bs and hostels. TikTok+1 The trail is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with many describing it as a life-changing experience. TikTok

The final leg into Fort William can be particularly demanding, with some hikers reporting sore feet and a sense of anticlimax upon reaching the official end marker. InstagramReddit However, the sense of accomplishment is immense, and the surrounding beauty of the Scottish Highlands more than makes up for any perceived lack of fanfare. TikTok The journey is as much about the personal challenge and connection with nature as it is about the destination itself. Instagram

Fort William: Gateway to Adventure

Fort William, situated on the west coast of Scotland, serves as a vital hub for outdoor enthusiasts. It's famously known as the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK' and is the primary gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. TikTok The town itself offers a practical base with amenities for hikers, climbers, and visitors exploring the wider Highland region. While some find Fort William itself to be a functional rather than picturesque town, its strategic location is undeniable. TikTok

Beyond the West Highland Way finish line, Fort William provides access to other attractions like the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola, offering spectacular aerial views of the Great Glen and surrounding munros. TikTok The area is also steeped in history, with nearby sites like Inverlochy Castle offering a glimpse into Scotland's past. TikTok For those seeking adventure, the proximity to Glencoe and Loch Linnhe makes Fort William an ideal starting point for road trips and further exploration of the stunning Scottish Highlands. TikTok+1

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