Fort James Travel Guide: Top Sights in Ghana, Tours & Travel Advice -

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Fort James- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Ghana; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

Fort James, built in 1673 by the Royal African Company of England, stands on the coast of Accra near the Jamestown Lighthouse. It was established as a trading post for gold and enslaved people, alongside other European forts like Fort Crèvecœur and Fort Christiansborg. Named after James, Duke of York—later King James II—the fort played a significant role in colonial commerce and power struggles. It later served as a prison well into the 21st century, notably holding Kwame Nkrumah before Ghana's independence. Recognized for its historical significance, Fort James was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

Operators offering tours in Ghana

Happy Explore Safari *

Attractions in Accra

Ghana National Mosque

Reviews of Fort James

Giulianna M

4
Reviewed: 2023-05-21

The prison is abandoned. Some locals control the area and will let you in for a few dollars. There is a small scam afoot where they show you a run down school building behind the lighthouse and ask for donations. Our guy even tried to tell us NYU professors volunteered to teach there. Keep your wits about you, but the prison is cool to see and contains some important history.
David Michel

3
Reviewed: 2021-01-18

Close to the lighthouse, and some miles behind the jamestown café this fort is kind interesting Did not have the chance to enter But just having a look at it gives the impression of some historical facts to learn
Joy Eneghalu-Anele

4
Reviewed: 2019-05-20

It's about the oldest city in Accra and I looked forward to it. I visited there with my German friend and the people were welcoming. We had someone who offered to take us around. We saw the boats and beach and people! The area doesn't look pleasant (asides the lighthouse area) but it was great to see people live lives different from mine. The people there fish for a living. It's just a great experience. Just for the sake of visiting and history sake, I recommend you visit James Fort. I also call it Jamestown.
Equilibre Organics

1
Reviewed: 2018-10-19

The fort is closed and st James prison is has been transferred to another place apparently. So nothing much to see apart from fishermen houses.
stanlee ohikhuare

4
Reviewed: 2017-08-19

Historic site and venue for the CHALE WOTE art Festival!!! The entire town is alive with Bold Artistic Expressions!