Fort Amherst guards the south side of The Narrows, the tight harbour entrance that gives St. John's so much of its drama. The historic fortification site dates to the eighteenth century, with later military use during the world wars, though much of the old fabric has disappeared.
The reason to go now is the combination of history and view. From this side of the harbour you look back toward Signal Hill, the city, and ships entering the port almost at arm's length. It is a short outing, but a very St. John's one: wind, rock, water, and strategic geography all in one place.