Battle of Inverlochy Memorial

The memorial stands quietly on the outskirts of Fort William, marking the site where one of Scotland's most brutal clan battles unfolded in 1645. It's not much to look at - a stone monument in an open field - but the history attached to it is weighty. The Battle of Inverlochy saw the Marquess of Montrose's forces clash with the Covenanters in a decisive encounter that shaped the course of the Scottish Civil War. Worth a stop if you're heading through the area, though don't expect interpretive boards or facilities.

History buffs will find it genuinely absorbing, particularly if you've read up on the period beforehand. Families passing through on the way to Ben Nevis won't be held up long - it's a quick visit, fifteen minutes at most. The surrounding landscape is proper Highland, with views towards the loch, which adds something to standing where thousands once fought.

The memorial is free to access and sits conveniently between the town and the nearby holiday parks. Ben Nevis Holiday Park is barely a mile away, making it an easy detour on foot if you're staying there. Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park, closer to the actual mountain, gives you quick access to the memorial before heading up the glen. If you're spending time in the Fort William area - and most visitors are, chasing Ben Nevis - this is worth the short walk. Go early in the day if you want decent light for photographs. The Highland weather moves fast, so check conditions first.