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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos

Fort Amherst Lighthouse St. John's
Best Time
Magical light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Guardians of the St. John's Narrows, Fort Amherst offers iconic lighthouse views, WWII history, and breathtaking coastal panoramas.
"Exploring Fort Amherst was a highlight, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating peek into history."

🚗 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

WWII Remnants
Scattered throughout the site
Explore historical gun emplacements and structures offering a glimpse into wartime history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Exploring Fort Amherst's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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. 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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. Sunrise and blue hour provide particularly dramatic lighting.
Drone photography is popular at Fort Amherst, capturing stunning aerial views of the lighthouse and surrounding landscape. 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.
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.
🎫 🚶♀️ 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.
The walk from the parking lot below to the lighthouse is relatively short, often described as a 'short walk' or 'short hike'.
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.
The trails around Fort Amherst are coastal and can be rugged, with uneven terrain and some inclines. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
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.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Fort Amherst played a crucial role in defending St. John's Harbour, particularly during WWII, with remnants of gun emplacements still visible.
You can explore old WWII buildings and gun emplacements, offering a tangible connection to the fort's past.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers and Drone Pilots
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Fort Amherst Lighthouse
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.
Exploring the Historical Remnants
While some of these historical buildings may be inaccessible or blocked off, their presence adds a layer of depth to the site. 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
For those who enjoy hiking, Fort Amherst serves as a gateway to sections of the renowned East Coast Trail. 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.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit