Loch Shiel

Loch Shiel is a deep freshwater loch in Lochaber, in the Scottish Highlands, about 20 km west of Fort William. It stretches between mountains in the north-east and open bog in the south-west, and it ranks among the longest lochs in Scotland. At its northern tip lies Glenfinnan, a place that matters greatly in Scottish history.

What kind of loch is it?

Loch Shiel runs roughly 25 to 28 km, depending on the source, and drops to more than 120 metres at its deepest. It sits only a few metres above sea level. Unusually for a loch this size, its water level is not regulated. The natural outflow is the River Shiel, a 4 km stream that reaches the sea in Loch Moidart near Castle Tioram.

The scenery changes along its length. In the north-east the loch is deep and hemmed in by steep mountainsides. Further south-west it turns shallower, bordered by bog and rough pasture.

What can you see at Glenfinnan?

The best-known stop is the Glenfinnan Monument, run by the National Trust for Scotland. The 18 m tower was built in 1815 to commemorate the 1745 Jacobite Rising. It was here, on 19 August 1745, that Prince Charles Edward Stuart raised the royal standard and set the rising in motion.

A narrow spiral staircase leads to the top, and only one person can pass at a time. The reward is a view over the loch, the surrounding mountains and the railway viaduct. The visitor centre has an exhibition on the Prince and the events of the rising.

How do you get there?

Glenfinnan lies on the Fort William to Mallaig railway line, so you can arrive by train. By road, head west from Fort William through Lochaber. The visitor centre next to the monument is the starting point for a visit. Check current opening times with the National Trust for Scotland before you travel.

When should you visit?

The monument and visitor centre operate mainly in the season, and access is easiest from spring to autumn. Scotland's west coast is wet, so bring a waterproof whatever the month. In clear weather the view from the top of the monument takes in the whole northern end of the loch.

What else is worth knowing?

The loch makes a good base for following the Jacobite trail. The northern end is about 20 km from Fort William, while the far shores remain wild and lightly developed. From the south-western end, the ruins of Castle Tioram on Loch Moidart are a short distance away.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Loch Shiel? In western Scotland, in Lochaber, about 20 km west of Fort William. Glenfinnan marks its northern shore.

How deep is it? More than 120 metres, which makes it one of the deepest lochs in Scotland.

What does the Glenfinnan Monument commemorate? The 1745 Jacobite Rising. The tower was built in 1815 and stands 18 m tall.

Can you climb the monument? Yes, by a narrow spiral staircase. Only one person can pass at a time, so queues can form in peak season.