Ben Nevis: The Ultimate Hiking Adventure From London

Ben Nevis is more than the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. It is a landscape of dramatic ridges, shifting clouds, ancient geology, and a challenge that thousands of hikers dream of completing every year. At Hiking in London Club, this journey has become one of our signature adventures — a demanding ascent that rewards every step with the raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

A Short History of Ben Nevis

Rising to 1,345 metres, Ben Nevis was once an active volcano whose collapsed dome forms the massive cliffs visible today. In 1883, the summit became home to a meteorological observatory, operating for 21 years. The ruined stone structure still stands on the top, marking a place where science and wilderness met under some of the harshest weather conditions in the UK.

How to Travel From London

Caledonian Sleeper: The Most Iconic Route

The overnight Caledonian Sleeper departs from London Euston and arrives directly in Fort William — the gateway to Ben Nevis. Expect a 12-hour journey through changing landscapes while you sleep.
Price: £60–£90 (seat), £140–£200 (basic cabin), £250–£350 (premium cabin).

Daytime Train

A more economical option is traveling via Glasgow and connecting to Fort William by regional train.
Total price: £50–£90 (advance booking).
Duration: 9–10 hours.

Where to Stay in Fort William

Budget Hostels

Fort William Backpackers – a friendly, social hostel ideal for groups.
Glen Nevis Youth Hostel – located at the foot of Ben Nevis, perfect for early starts.

Hotels

Alexandra Hotel – classic, central, and reliable.
Nevis Bank Inn – modern, comfortable, and close to the trailhead.

Camping

Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park offers scenic mountain views and quiet surroundings.

The Route: The Mountain Track

The Mountain Track — also known as the Pony Track or Tourist Route — remains the most accessible and popular way to reach the summit of Ben Nevis.

Technical Details

Distance: 16–18 km (round trip)
Time: 7–9 hours
Difficulty: High
Elevation Gain: 1,345 m
Terrain: Well-defined path, stone steps, loose rock at higher levels

What to Expect

The ascent begins at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre before climbing steadily through a sequence of long zigzags. Halfway up, hikers pass Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe, a tranquil mountain lake offering a brief moment of calm before the steeper upper slopes. The final section is a stony, exposed plateau leading to the summit ruins of the old observatory.

Essential Gear

Clothing

Ben Nevis demands preparation. Even in summer, temperatures on the summit can be close to freezing.
Recommended:
– Waterproof shell (Gore-Tex or similar)
– Thermal base layers
– Durable hiking trousers
– Gloves and a warm hat

Footwear

Proper hiking boots are essential. The rocky terrain and long descent put considerable pressure on ankles and knees.

Additional Equipment

– 25–30 L backpack
– 1.5–2 L of water
– Trekking poles
– Headlamp
– High-energy snacks

Local Food & Places to Eat

Traditional Scottish Dishes

After a long hike, Fort William offers excellent local food:
– Haggis with mashed potatoes
– Steak pie
– Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup)
– Fish & chips

Pubs Worth Visiting

The Ben Nevis Inn – the most iconic post-hike meeting place.
The Grog & Gruel – traditional, cosy, and atmospheric.
The Volunteer Arms – popular with hikers and locals alike.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Fort William

Travel from London, check into your accommodation, explore the town, and enjoy a warm dinner in one of the local pubs.

Day 2 – Ascend Ben Nevis

Start early, around 7:00–8:00. Expect a demanding climb, a dramatic summit, and a challenging descent. Finish the evening celebrating with your hiking group in Fort William.

Day 3 – Return to London

A relaxed morning before boarding your train back to the city.

Estimated Total Cost

Train: £50–£200
Accommodation (2 nights): £60–£150
Food & drinks: £40–£80
Total estimated cost: £150–£430

Final Thoughts

Ben Nevis is not only a hike — it is a transformative experience. It challenges your endurance, rewards your determination, and immerses you in one of the most dramatic landscapes in the United Kingdom. For members of Hiking in London Club, this expedition represents teamwork, resilience, and the unforgettable spirit of adventure that defines our community.