An upscale neighbourhood in Cape Town, South Africa, is called Newlands. It is the wettest suburb in South Africa due to its significant winter rainfall and is situated at the base of Table Mountain in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs. To its southwest, Bishopscourt is located, to its southeast, Claremont, to its southeast, and to its east and northeast, Rondebosch.
The suburb is one of the best places to explore when you find yourself in Cape Town. And in this article, I going to list all you need to know when planning to explore or visit Newlands In Cape Town.
About Newlands Cape Town
Newlands, regarded as Cape Town’s “green” suburb and synonymous with the worlds of rugby and cricket, is situated against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain about 15 minutes from the city’s centre. Beautiful homes in this upscale, green neighbourhood back onto the mountain and practically encircle Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, providing sought-after vistas.
The renowned Newlands rugby stadium and cricket grounds are both located here. The latter in particular offers some breathtaking views of Devil’s Peak from under the canopies of old Oak trees. Newlands is the centre of the “South African” rugby and cricket experience. If you enjoy cricket, this is a great place to idle away the afternoons.
The walk from here to Kirstenbosch takes about four hours and is steep at some points, but you recover on the way into Kirstenbosch, where you can stop for breakfast or tea at one of the restaurants. Newlands Forest, just off Rhodes Avenue, offers locals a wonderful haven in which to exercise their dogs.
Newland Cape Town Map
Newlands detail and street level map showing popular attractions including Table Mountain National Park, Newlands Cricket Ground, the location of the Western Province Rugby Stadium and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and its close proximity to Claremont.
History Of Newlands
There is little information available about the inhabitants of the region before the Dutch East India Company arrived and founded Cape Town and the Cape Colony in 1652. These people were probably Khoekhoe clans like the Uriaekua. In 1700, Willem Adriaan van der Stel, the colony’s then-governor, received land for an estate that he named De Nieuwe Land or Nieuwland.
The estate was sold in 1791 and passed through several owners before being purchased in 1826. It is believed that Newlands Village was founded during the 1860s when the estate was leased to the British Colonial Government to use as a country retreat for the Cape Governors. On December 19, 1864, a railway line from Salt River that extended to Cape Town Central was inaugurated in the area.
What Is Newlands Cape Town Know For?
It is best known for its rugby union and football stadiums, Newlands Stadium and Newlands Cricket Ground. The original location of Ohlsson’s Cape Breweries, which is still close to the rugby fields, is also there. The SACS grounds are currently located on the former site of Ohlsson’s Anneberg Brewery. The Josephine Mill, which used a water wheel to mill the brewery’s grain, is the only trace of the old brewery. Now, this is a historical landmark. The Montebello Design Centre, which was left to the University of Cape Town along with the ancient stables from Cecil Michaelis’ estate, is just next door to SACS.
The old Cardiff Castle Building, which is situated in Newlands Village, is beneath the pipeline from the Table Mountain spring that supplies the Newlands Brewery.
The first European-style beer in southern Africa was brewed using water from the Liesbeek River, which flows through Newlands and past the Vineyard Hotel. A walk along the river bank that passes local sites is maintained by Friends of The Liesbeek.
Top Attractions in Newlands, Cape Town
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town is recognized throughout the world for the splendour of its location against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and the richness and diversity of the Cape flora it exhibits. Only indigenous South African flora is grown at Kirstenbosch. The 528-hectare Kirstenbosch estate is home to a variety of fynbos plants and natural woodland.
The 36-hectare cultivated garden features collections of South African flora, notably those from the country’s region with winter rains. The Kirstenbosch Visitors’ Center has a coffee shop, several retail stores, and an information desk. Plants and other services to help the home garden are available at the Centre for Home Gardening.
On the lawns at Kirstenbosch, musical sunset concerts are presented on Sundays during the summer, from December to March. Every month’s final Sunday, craft markets are also hosted at the Stone Cottages (across from Kirstenbosch) (except June, July and August).
Newlands Cricket Grounds
It’s not surprising that the Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town is regarded as the world’s most picturesque venue of its sort. The game is played against the magnificent backdrops of Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak, with the lush, green neighbourhood of Newlands serving as the perfect setting.
With a capacity of 25,000, Newlands Cricket Ground has played host to some of the best cricket in the world since its first game in 1889, the year it was founded. It’s interesting to note that test cricket has only been played at Lords for five years. This demonstrated South Africa’s status as a major player in this international match.
In addition to its fascinating past, which still penetrates the location and each game, Newlands Cricket Ground features first-rate amenities. Parking is made accessible at several adjacent areas for large sporting events, and it has plenty of restrooms and security. There are food and drink options within the stadium. For those who would like to drink a refreshing beer or a glass of South African wine while watching the game, there are also licensed kiosks available.
Newlands Forest
The people adore Newlands Forest. The lush, native forest that once covered a large portion of the eastern slopes of Table Mountain is all that is left in Cape Town today. The Khoi’s migratory route included the woodland back then. People now congregate there to exercise their dogs, take leisurely strolls, or go trail running along the numerous mountainside pathways.
A board describing hiking pathways through the forest is located at the top of the Newlands entrance. Most of the trails are dirt, but there are a few that lead higher up the mountain and require tougher, rocky climbs. From Newlands Forest, you may connect to both Kirstenbosch and the Rhodes Memorial.
There are countless pathways to take through the forest, and you can easily spend all day strolling along them. But if you stick to well-travelled (i.e., popular) pathways, you’ll find this to be quite challenging as they frequently become congested with weekend walkers and trail runners. Set out on uncharted territory, but proceed in groups and with caution.
Newlands Rugby Stadium
A rugby nation is South Africa. It’s in their DNA and the topic of numerous discussions. As a result, the Newlands Rugby Stadium in Cape Town is a very special place for those who encourage love and dedication to the sport. This stadium is located in the charming, wooded area of Newlands, only a short distance from Cavendish Shopping Center, and 15 to 20 minutes away from the City Bowl.
This venue, presently known as DHL Newlands, can hold 51 900 devoted spectators, some of whom will stand. Having hosted the first official match in 1890, it is the second-oldest rugby venue in the world and the oldest in the nation. 2 400 spectators attended the opening game.
Best Accommodation In Newlands, Cape Town
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The Vineyard Hotel And Spa
The Vineyard is located in Newlands on 7.5 acres of historic riverbank parkland with views of Table Mountain’s eastern slopes. The renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and legendary Constantia Winelands are also close by on the Peninsula Touring Route to Cape Point. The 120-year-old hotel, which served as Lady Anne Barnard’s first rural hideaway, features 207 opulent rooms, three fine dining establishments, a renowned spa, a first-rate meeting centre, and more. A must-stay hotel in Cape Town!
Southern Sun Newlands
Discover the ideal look at Southern Sun Newlands. The large, chic accommodations at this award-winning hotel give both business and leisure guests the chance to unwind in a beautiful location while taking in the breathtaking vista of Devil’s Peak on Table Mountain’s eastern slopes. The rugby and cricket stadiums are both nearby the hotel.
Wild Olive Guesthouse
The Wild Olive is a luxurious guesthouse close to the Newlands Cricket and Rugby stadiums, making it ideal for visiting spectators. If you’re looking for some relaxation, Kirstenbosch is also nearby. Along with a variety of business amenities, the guesthouse has a well-stocked gym. A lavish-cooked breakfast and a continental buffet are included in the rates.
Park Inn By Radisson
Choose from 122 Guest and Superior Rooms with comfortable furnishings and enjoy the on-site dining options, including a lobby bar. Parking, a swimming pool and a gym are all available, as well as 300m² of flexible meeting space.
Top Restaurants in Newlands, Cape Town
Basilico
This delightful restaurant in the leafy Newlands neighbourhood is a parent’s dream: from the hearty Italian fare to the breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the ample parking (ideal for transporting prams) to, most importantly, plenty of space for both children and the family dog, it has quickly become a well-liked establishment in its neighbourhood.
Basilico, a restaurant run by Anthony and Krista Bounds who also have an active toddler at home, serves a wide range of dishes that are suitable for kids, including pasta, beef fillets, risottos, sweet desserts, and more. The best part is that it has daily lunch deals and is totally inexpensive.
Bihari Indian Restaurants At The Southern Sun Hotel
Bihari specializes in traditional Northern Indian fusion cuisine and has a sizable menu to choose from. Large oak doors, red and gold colours, wrought-iron lanterns, and luxurious couches are all features of this dining institution. It is a cosy family-friendly Indian sit-in restaurant.
Barristers
Barristers, a restaurant in the centre of Newlands Village, has experienced several renovations over the years but remains a Southern Suburbs popular favourite and one that is nearly synonymous with Newlands. Barristers is a popular restaurant because of its 20 beers on tap, vast wine list, and well-known steaks.
Mamma Roma
Owners Romano and Cristina Gorrini have built a genuine Italian experience in Newlands, which is located in the centre of the Southern Suburbs. Mamma Roma, one of the city’s favourite Italian restaurants, is known for its abundance of delectable pasta dishes, but there are plenty of alternative options available if you’re trying to avoid the carbs.
The Creamery
Look no further than The Creamery, which is swiftly rising to the top of the list of the city’s favourite ice cream stores, if you’re in the mood for something sweet or simply want to chill off. It is well-known for its distinctive flavours, such as naartjie choc chip, sea salt caramel, and others, but it also offers all the traditional favourites. Waffles, sundaes, and milkshakes are still available for you to enjoy!