Fort James

Fort James stands on the headland at the northern mouth of St. John's Harbour, built by the British to defend the approaches to the capital. Work began on the site in the early 1700s, and the main fort as it survives today was largely completed around 1739. It takes its name from King James II of England, and was one of a ring of forts thrown up across Antigua in the 18th century amid fears of French invasion.

The fort is modest in scale but atmospheric and free to visit. A number of its original cannon remain mounted along the ramparts, pointing out to sea, and the powder magazine and gun platform survive. From the walls you get a fine open view across the harbour entrance toward the capital and out over the Caribbean, especially good in the late afternoon.

What makes Fort James a particularly easy stop is its setting beside Fort James Beach, a calm, popular town beach loved by locals at weekends. You can combine a quick wander round the ruins with a swim and a meal at one of the casual beach bars nearby, all just a few minutes from St. John's.

The site is unfenced and lightly maintained, so watch your footing on the old stonework, and there is little shade. It pairs naturally with Antigua's other harbour fort, Fort Barrington, which guards the southern side of the same harbour, for visitors interested in the island's colonial defences.