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Welcome to Fort Augustus

Fort Augustus is a small village on the most southern tip of Loch Ness. A picturesque place with lots of see and do, and also the gateway between Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal.

This is a pretty village where you can watch the boats go through the locks, with places to eat and drink, shopping and history. So it’s a wonderful place to stop and relax.

History of Fort Augustus

From the original settlement Kiliwhimin to today's picturesque village

Original Settlement

Originally, this settlement was called Kiliwhimin. In the aftermath of the 1715 Jacobite Rising, Kiliwhimin Barracks was built. Nine years later, General George Wade built a new fort in the village. He renamed it Fort Augustus, after the youngest son of King George II, William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. Today, very little remains of the Kiliwhimin Barracks. However, a small section of the curtain wall still stands, now located behind the Lovat Hotel. The replacement fort was abandoned in 1818 and the land was used to build Fort Augustus Abbey, which is now a luxury holiday rental.

See Fort Augustus Abbey below....

Caledonian Canal

In 1822, Scottish engineer Thomas Telford completed his new project, the Caledonian Canal, connecting up the Scottish east and west coasts. The canal cut right through the village. Featuring the longest staircase lock flight in Scotland, known as Neptune’s Staircase.

Today, the Caledonian Canal is still very much in use, both for sailing vessels and walkers and cyclists. You can find out more about it at the Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus. As well as pick up some souvenirs and enjoy fresh local produce in the café.

Attractions and activities

Discover Fort Augustus attractions and activities, including the Caledonian Canal

Things to do in Fort Augustus

The village has become a popular tourist destination. Its location by Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal, as well as the Great Glen Way walking trail and Great Glen Canoe Trail, makes it an ideal resting point for those exploring the Highlands.

Other attractions include Cruise Loch Ness, which offers daily boat trips on the loch. Also, the Clansman Centre, where you can go back to 17th century Scotland through recreated scenes and interactive experiences. And Fort Augustus Golf Club, a challenging 9-hole course open to visitors.

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Towns & Villages

Caledonian Canal

Loch Ness Monster