James's Fort stands on the west side of the harbour mouth, directly across from Charles Fort, and predates it by nearly a century. Built in the late 16th century to guard the approach to Kinsale Harbour, it was captured by Spanish forces during the Siege of Kinsale in 1601 and retaken by English troops who subsequently held the town. The fort is smaller and rougher than Charles Fort — it has not been maintained as a heritage site — and access involves a short walk along a path from Castlepark.
The fort itself is ruined but the headland and harbour views are excellent. This is a quieter alternative to Charles Fort for anyone who has already visited the bigger site or who wants a walk with fewer crowds. Combine it with the Scilly Walk and the two forts can be taken in as part of a half-day coastal circuit from Kinsale town.