SHOPPING
©COMANICIU DAN/COMZEAL/ADOBE STOCK
The live shellfish on offer depends on what their own fishing boats have recently caught, and at any given time you might find lobster, langoustines, crab, mussels, clams, scallops and oysters. If you don’t have the facilities to cook some live shellfish, they’ll cook some for you – the ultimate takeaway! You can even pre-order over the phone and pick up a delicious seafood picnic lunch or speciality platter. And there’s a well-stocked deli counter with cooked shellfish, smoked salmon, patés, cheeses and hams. INNOVATIVE INDEPENDENTS Lochaber and the surrounding area has plenty of small but beautiful shops both in the main towns and most remote rural spots. Whether you’re looking for a bit of Harry Potter memorabilia, some locally-made jewellery or soap, or a unique handknitted item, you’ll find it here. Love natural skincare products? Then you’ll adore The Highland Soap Co range of products, all made from the finest natural plant ingredients and the purest essential oils, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. With two shops to choose from in the area, you can visit them in either Fort William or Spean Bridge to check out their traditionally hand-made cold-process soaps. Naturally moisturising, they gently cleanse, nourish and soothe your skin.
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“IF YOU DON’T HAVE THE FACILITIES TO COOK SOME LIVE SHELLFISH, THEY’LL COOK SOME FOR YOU – THE ULTIMATE TAKEAWAY”
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Book lovers won’t want to pass up a visit to The Highland Bookshop, occupying a large traditional building in the middle of Fort William. This independent book store stocks an extensive range of books, including fiction, outdoors, Scottish and children’s, serving both the local community and visitors. Not only that, they run a busy programme of events that include local writers’ and readers’ groups as well as regular talks by local, national and international authors. If you’d like to find some quality hand-made clothing, Ginger Knitwear in Mallaig is a must-visit. You can watch designer Anna Skea at work in her studio making her stylish bespoke items using traditional methods. Browse a range of hand-made coats, dresses, tunics, menswear, hats, scarves, socks and more – all made to last. Ginger also stocks a range of delicious-smelling soaps, cushions and jewellery. Many Harry Potter fans will have taken the Jacobite steam train to Mallaig along the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, and you won’t want to miss a trip to Haggard Alley. At the end of the west Highland railway line you’ll find this memorabilia shop within the old police station. Immerse yourself in the magic of the film as you step into this quirky shop, which is packed with a range of quality Harry Potter souvenirs and merchandise. l
WELCOME TO FORT WILLIAM & LOCHABER