James Fort

Built by the British in 1673, the now decaying Fort James serves as a reminder of former colonial rule. The trading post operated as a prison until 2008, when local investigators discovered the structure, which was built to house just 50 people, was actually holding more than 1,000—sometimes 90 inmates to a single room.
Today the defunct penitentiary attracts visitors looking to learn about the nation’s past and explore the haunting life of those who were convicted, but due to human rights concerns, Fort James no longer serves as a functional Accra prison.

Practical Info

Fort James is located at 2 Barnes Road, near the Noyaa Association School, south of Cleland Road and southwest of Ussher Fort. Entrance fees are $2 for children, $10 for adults. It is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.