James Fort
4131 Tetteh Kpeshie Road, Accra, Ghana
Learn about Accra’s past and its dark history at James Fort, located in the Jamestown district. The fort was originally established in the 1600s by the Royal African Company of England to serve as a trading post for gold and slaves. It then transitioned into a prison until its closure in 2008. Today, the building is a tourist attraction and a historical site.
The basics
To fully appreciate James Fort, many visitors opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the fort’s history, its involvement in the slave trade, and its subsequent use as a prison. Guides often provide detailed perspectives that might be missed when exploring solo. Following a visit to the fort, consider making a trip to the nearby Jamestown Lighthouse, which offers a popular photo opportunity and great views of the city.
Things to know before you go
Due to its historical nature, James Fort has uneven ground and may be difficult to access for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
James Fort is an important site in the country’s political history, as Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, was imprisoned there.
For a quick refreshment break after visiting the fort, the Road Side Pub is only a 1-minute walk away, opposite the Jamestown Lighthouse.
How to get there
Public transportation in Accra can be crowded, so many travelers choose to get to James Fort by taxi. If you’re starting at Accra Railway Station, it takes around 13 minutes by taxi, and there is a taxi stand nearby. Alternatively, you can walk to James Fort in around 25 minutes.
When to get there
James Fort welcomes visitors year-round and is usually open from morning to mid–afternoon. For an optimal experience, visit in the morning and make James Fort one of your first stops on a route through the city that delves into its colonial history. You can then spend the afternoon exploring other historical attractions further north, like Brazil House and Ussher Fort.
Best photo opportunities of Jamestown
After visiting James Fort, head to the Jamestown Lighthouse for a great photo opportunity. Its red and white stripes make for striking external shots, and climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the local area. Make your next stop Brazil House, with its distinct bright yellow facade. The surrounding streets are adorned with vibrant street art, showcasing the artistic flair of Jamestown.
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