Looking towards the base of Signal Hill
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Fort Amherst Lighthouse St. John's

4.6
·378 reviews·St. John's, Canada

Guardians of the St. John's Narrows, Fort Amherst offers iconic lighthouse views, WWII history, and breathtaking coastal panoramas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Blue Hour

Magical light for photos

CrowdLow
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Looking towards the base of Signal Hill

Fort Amherst Lighthouse St. John's

Best Time

Sunrise & Blue Hour

Magical light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Guardians of the St. John's Narrows, Fort Amherst offers iconic lighthouse views, WWII history, and breathtaking coastal panoramas.

4.6
(378 reviews)

"Exploring Fort Amherst was a highlight, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating peek into history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Hassles

Parking can be tricky; try the free lot below and walk up. :car:

📸 Drone Photography Gold

Incredible aerial shots of the lighthouse and coastline. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Amherst Lighthouse

Fort Amherst Lighthouse

Entrance to St. John's Harbour

Iconic red and white beacon guarding the St. John's Harbour Narrows. A must-see landmark!

St. John's Harbour Narrows View

St. John's Harbour Narrows View

From the fort grounds

Breathtaking panoramic views of Signal Hill, The Battery, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

WWII Remnants

WWII Remnants

Scattered throughout the site

Explore historical gun emplacements and structures offering a glimpse into wartime history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Fort Amherst Lighthouse offers stunning vistas, especially during sunrise and blue hour. Consider visiting early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture the most dramatic light. The weather can change quickly, so pack layers!

Exploring Fort Amherst's History

While the lighthouse is iconic, Fort Amherst also holds WWII remnants. Though some areas might be blocked off, exploring the grounds provides a glimpse into its strategic past. Check for any available historical information on-site.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Blue Hour
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer visitors, peaceful stroll
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Pleasant weather, golden light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Somewhere in Fsj😂 #fyp #fortstjohn
@xairelmcgore
38K likes • 1.3M views

🚗 Parking Hassles

Parking can be tricky; try the free lot below and walk up. :car:

📸 Drone Photography Gold

Incredible aerial shots of the lighthouse and coastline. :camerawithflash:

Add this place to your list of travels!!! #fortstjohn #fsj
@karms2nd
5.8K likes • 132.3K views
📍Cape Spear to Fort Amherst- Blackhead Trail 5hrs . . . . . . . . . #canada #stjohns #newfoundland #trail #hike #nature #meditation #spirituality #fog #capespear #cape #lighthouse #ocean #atlantic #rocks #canadiangirl #latina #travel #traveler #minimalist #breath #strong #brave #perseverancia #instatravel
travelwithsarita
31 likes • 652 views

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Trail Access

Connects to longer East Coast Trail sections for avid hikers. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Weather Ready

Newfoundland weather is unpredictable; pack layers! :cloud:

The journey is always worth it 🫶🏔️🌊 📸 @thelauraroxplorer Perched on a cliff overlooking the North Atlantic, the bright red and white exterior of the Fort Amherst Lighthouse is one of the first landmarks encountered by ships entering St. John’s Harbour. Steeped in naval history and rich in architectural significance, here you’ll find some of the most stunning views of the surrounding land and sea...
destinationstjohns
276 likes • 5.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Hassles

Parking can be tricky; try the free lot below and walk up. :car:

📸 Drone Photography Gold

Incredible aerial shots of the lighthouse and coastline. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Trail Access

Connects to longer East Coast Trail sections for avid hikers. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Weather Ready

Newfoundland weather is unpredictable; pack layers! :cloud:

💡 History Buff's Delight

Explore WWII ruins and learn about the fort's strategic past. :scroll:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(378 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular views of the harbour, Signal Hill, and the Atlantic Ocean from Fort Amherst. The iconic lighthouse and historical WWII remnants add significant appeal, making it a scenic and meaningful spot for photos and reflection. While some note it's not a large site with extensive activities, its accessibility and natural beauty make it a highly recommended stop in St. John's.

"The views are spectacular. We decided not to do the guided tour. We parked in the free parking lot below the site and walked up. Cool spot to visit for sure. Not a big place, smallish lighthouse. I'm sure the history is amazing, but not a lot to do here."

RobS

"Exploring Fort Amherst in St. John’s was a highlight of my trip! This historic site, with its iconic lighthouse and WWII remnants, offers a fascinating peek into Newfoundland’s history. The short walk from the parking lot leads to breathtaking views of the Narrows, Signal Hill, and the Atlantic. The rugged cliffs and ocean breeze create a serene vibe, perfect for photos or quiet reflection. It’s a must-visit gem just minutes from downtown!"

Pavel

"A must-visit in St. John’s!
Fort Amherst offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Narrows. The historic lighthouse, coastal trails, and remnants of WWII gun emplacements make it both scenic and meaningful. It’s peaceful, easy to access, and perfect for photos or a quiet walk. A little hassle in finding a parking spot. Highly recommend for anyone visiting St. John’s!"

Ye Zin Zin

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Iconic lighthouse
Historical WWII remnants

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Not a large site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fort Amherst is easily accessible from downtown St. John's. You can drive, with a parking lot available below the site, or enjoy a scenic walk. Some visitors opt to park in the free lot and walk up to the lighthouse for better views and a bit of exercise.Reddit The drive takes about 10-15 minutes from the city center.

Public transportation options directly to Fort Amherst are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car or consider a taxi/rideshare service for convenience. Walking from downtown is also a popular option for those who enjoy a stroll.Reddit

Yes, you can walk to Fort Amherst from downtown St. John's. It's a pleasant walk, especially if you enjoy coastal scenery. The route can take you past Signal Hill and The Battery, offering beautiful views along the way.Reddit

If the main parking lot is full, you can park in the free lot below and walk up. This is a common practice and offers a chance to appreciate the surroundings.Reddit Some visitors also mention a side trail that can lead to longer hikes.

The main paths around the lighthouse are generally accessible, but some areas with historical remnants might be uneven. Parking below and walking up offers a less strenuous approach for some.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Fort Amherst Lighthouse and its grounds are generally free to visit. There are no admission fees required to explore the site and enjoy the views.Reddit

Fort Amherst is an outdoor historical site and is typically accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times for the grounds themselves.

While some visitors have mentioned guided tours in the past, it's not always consistently available. Many visitors choose to explore independently, enjoying the views and historical aspects at their own pace.Reddit

Parking at Fort Amherst is generally free. There is a parking lot located below the lighthouse site that visitors can utilize.

Yes, Fort Amherst can be visited year-round. However, be prepared for potentially challenging weather conditions during the winter months.

📸 📸 Photography & Views

Fort Amherst offers incredible photo opportunities, especially of the lighthouse itself, the St. John's Harbour Narrows, Signal Hill, and the rugged coastline.TikTokInstagram Sunrise and blue hour provide particularly dramatic lighting.Instagram

Drone photography is popular at Fort Amherst, capturing stunning aerial views of the lighthouse and surrounding landscape.TikTokInstagram+1 Always check local drone regulations before flying.

The views from Fort Amherst are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, the entrance to St. John's Harbour, Signal Hill, and The Battery.TikTokReddit

Yes, Signal Hill is prominently visible from Fort Amherst, providing a fantastic vantage point for photos of both landmarks.

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset, as well as the 'blue hour' just before sunrise or after sunset, offer the most magical light for photography.Instagram

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Hiking & Trails

Yes, Fort Amherst is part of the East Coast Trail system. You can find coastal trails offering beautiful views and connecting to longer hiking routes.InstagramReddit

The walk from the parking lot below to the lighthouse is relatively short, often described as a 'short walk' or 'short hike'.Reddit

Yes, Fort Amherst is a starting point for hiking sections of the East Coast Trail that can lead to Cape Spear. This is a longer hike, so be prepared.Reddit

The trails around Fort Amherst are coastal and can be rugged, with uneven terrain and some inclines. Sturdy footwear is recommended.Instagram

While wildlife is present in Newfoundland, bears are not typically a major concern in this specific urban-adjacent area. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

Fort Amherst played a crucial role in defending St. John's Harbour, particularly during WWII, with remnants of gun emplacements still visible.TikTokReddit

You can explore old WWII buildings and gun emplacements, offering a tangible connection to the fort's past.TikTokReddit

No, Fort Amherst is a historical site and no longer an active military installation. The remnants are preserved for visitors to explore.

While some of the old WWII buildings are visible, they may be blocked off and not accessible for entry, as noted by some visitors.Reddit

The lighthouse has served as a vital navigational aid for ships entering St. John's Harbour for many years, guarding the entrance to the Narrows.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fort Amherst offers a great outing for families. The short walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse is manageable for most children, and the open spaces provide room to explore. Kids will be fascinated by the lighthouse and the remnants of old military structures, sparking their imagination about history.TikTok The stunning views of the ocean and the harbour can also be captivating for younger visitors. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and keep a close eye on children near the cliffs.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

Fort Amherst is a fantastic starting point for hikers and nature lovers. It connects directly to the East Coast Trail, offering access to miles of scenic coastal paths.InstagramReddit You can embark on a short, invigorating walk along the cliffs or plan for a longer trek, enjoying the rugged beauty of Newfoundland's coastline. The dramatic ocean views and fresh sea air make for an unforgettable hiking experience.

📸 Photographers and Drone Pilots

This location is a dream for photographers, especially those interested in lighthouses, coastal landscapes, and historical sites.TikTokInstagram The iconic lighthouse, the dramatic Narrows, and the sweeping ocean vistas provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Drone pilots will find Fort Amherst particularly rewarding, with numerous videos showcasing breathtaking aerial perspectives of the lighthouse and coastline.TikTokInstagram+1 The best light for photography is often during sunrise, sunset, and the blue hour.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Fort Amherst Lighthouse

The Fort Amherst Lighthouse, with its striking red and white exterior, stands as a sentinel at the entrance to St. John's Harbour. It's one of the first landmarks ships encounter, guiding them through the Narrows.Instagram While its primary function is navigational, the lighthouse itself is a picturesque subject, frequently captured in stunning photographs and drone footage.TikTokInstagram+1 Its presence is a constant reminder of the maritime heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Many visitors are drawn to the lighthouse for its visual appeal and the dramatic coastal setting. The area around the lighthouse offers fantastic vantage points for capturing its grandeur against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you're a professional photographer or just enjoy snapping pictures, the lighthouse provides a memorable subject.TikTokInstagram

Exploring the Historical Remnants

Beyond the lighthouse, Fort Amherst is steeped in military history, particularly from World War II. Visitors can explore the remnants of WWII gun emplacements and other structures that once served a strategic defensive purpose.TikTokReddit These historical artifacts offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to imagine the fort's role in protecting the harbour.

While some of these historical buildings may be inaccessible or blocked off, their presence adds a layer of depth to the site.Reddit Walking among these remnants provides a unique perspective on the area's wartime significance. It's a chance to reflect on the history that shaped this coastal landscape, making Fort Amherst more than just a scenic viewpoint.

The Breathtaking Views and Coastal Trails

The views from Fort Amherst are consistently praised by visitors, offering spectacular panoramas of the St. John's Harbour Narrows, Signal Hill, The Battery, and the vast expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean.TikTokReddit The rugged cliffs and the constant ocean breeze create a serene and invigorating atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection or a brisk walk.Instagram

For those who enjoy hiking, Fort Amherst serves as a gateway to sections of the renowned East Coast Trail.InstagramReddit These coastal trails wind along the dramatic coastline, providing further opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Newfoundland. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more challenging trek, the trails around Fort Amherst offer rewarding experiences and stunning vistas at every turn.Instagram

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