In short
- Neptune's Staircase has 8 locks; Fort Augustus has 5.
- Neptune's Staircase offers scale and mountain views.
- Fort Augustus features pubs, shops, and Loch Ness access.
In this article
The Caledonian Canal features 29 locks across its 60-mile (96.5 km) length. The two most famous lock flights are Neptune's Staircase in the south and Fort Augustus in the center. Both show off the engineering from the canal's opening in 1822.
What is Neptune's Staircase?
Neptune's Staircase is a flight of 8 locks at the southern end of the canal near Fort William.
This continuous lock flight raises vessels 19 meters. It takes boats about 90 minutes to pass through the entire system. Visitors watch lock keepers manage the large water volume changes.
What is the Fort Augustus lock flight?
Fort Augustus features a flight of 5 locks running directly through the village.
These locks drop boats down to the shores of Loch Ness. The area is a busy midway point on the canal. You can sit outside local pubs and watch boats navigate the flight.
How do Neptune's Staircase and Fort Augustus compare?
Neptune's Staircase is larger, while Fort Augustus offers more amenities.
Here is a direct comparison of the two lock flights.
What facilities are at Fort Augustus?
Fort Augustus offers pubs, shops, and the Caledonian Canal Centre.
The Caledonian Canal Centre is a visitor hub with history exhibits, a gift shop, and a café. It takes 1 to 2 hours to explore the centre and watch the locks operate.
Which lock flight is better for photography?
It depends on the subject you want to capture.
Neptune's Staircase offers views toward Ben Nevis and large-scale water movement. Fort Augustus provides village scenes, boats entering Loch Ness, and close-up views from pub patios.
Can you visit both lock flights in one day?
Yes, you can visit both flights if you drive along the Great Glen.
Some guided tours travel from Inverness down to Fort William, stopping at both locations. The drive allows you to see the contrast between the village locks and the massive southern flight.
Questions travellers ask
How many locks are on the Caledonian Canal?
The canal features a total of 29 locks across its 60 miles (96.5 km).
Are the towpaths at the locks free to access?
Yes, it is free to walk or cycle the towpaths at both Neptune's Staircase and Fort Augustus.
Who built the Caledonian Canal?
The canal was built under engineer Thomas Telford. You can learn more about his work at the Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus.
