Trip Planner:   Caribbean  /  Antigua and Barbuda  /  Antigua  /  Saint John Parish  /  St. John's  /  Fort James

Fort James, St. John's

3.5
#3 of 12 in Historic Sites in Antigua and Barbuda
Historic Site · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot
Create an itinerary including Fort James
Built during the 18th century to guard the city from a possible French invasion, Fort James offers a glimpse into the past as well as sweeping views of the surrounding harbor. Although it was once armed with 36 cannons and a barracks accommodating 75 men, today the citadel has dwindled to a handful of cannons, a power magazine, the ruins of old buildings, and the foundation walls. Due to lack of maintenance, grass grows quite liberally throughout the grounds. Still, you can enjoy views over the bay and combine a visit here with a swim or stroll along the nearby beach. Use our St. John's trip planner to add Fort James and other attractions to your St. John's vacation plans.
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Fort James reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
259 reviews
Google
4.2
TripAdvisor
  • The beach is totally awesome. It is an easy walk. closest beach to St. Johns. Awesome views. Mostly quiet. beach not flooded with visitors like a lot of other beaches. The Fort has great views.....  more
    The beach is totally awesome. It is an easy walk. closest beach to St. Johns. Awesome views. Mostly quiet. beach not flooded with visitors like a lot of other beaches. The Fort has great views.....  more »
  • A small fort with great views and loads of cannons and fantastic views but basically being allowed to become overgrown and not maintained. Its OK for a short wander and was free to get into with some....  more
    A small fort with great views and loads of cannons and fantastic views but basically being allowed to become overgrown and not maintained. Its OK for a short wander and was free to get into with some....  more »
Google
  • The view from Fort James was beautiful. And was neat to see the canons. Though it's a shame that there is so much trash inside the buildings and that there's no effort to preserve them. If in the area it's great for quick stop and beautiful view. I wouldn't recommend taking a walk down to the house on the property. Aside from trash, there are the "leftovers" from drug use all over the ground. Don't walk the area without shoes, and don't allow children to run around either. It's a shame there's so much trash, and this place isn't better preserved. The view is beautiful.
  • There are other more famous historical sites in the island. Fort James was an interesting place to find. Out sat nav didn't know the roads so we had to follow our instincts. Beach was popular on a Sunday. Fort and cannons are free to explore. Views are stunning out over the water and bay.

Plan your trip to St. John's

  • Get a personalized trip
    A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
  • Customize it
    Refine your trip. We'll find the
    best routes and schedules
  • Book it
    Choose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off
  • Manage it
    Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.