Getting to know the Newlands Neighbourhood
Category Property Advice
Newlands is one of Cape Town’s most desired residential locations – and for good reason!
This affluent neighbourhood is rich in natural beauty, history, character and charm and home to some of Cape Town’s most desired real estate.
The suburb hugs the base of the slopes of the Table Mountain Nature Reserve and literally has a river running through it. The 9-kilometre-long Liesbeek River flows down from Table Mountain, runs past a number of Newlands landmarks and through to Observatory where it joins the Black River and runs into the ocean at Table Bay. The river has many canals and offers a great place along which to hike and explore the area.
The area was originally named De Nieuwe Land by Govenor Willem van der Stel when he made it his home in 1700. Over time, many government officials resided in the area until it was sold to private individuals and later established as Newlands Village. Many historical buildings from this time still remain today, including an original Woodcutter’s Cottage in the Newlands forest and the original village church on the corner of Newlands Avenue and Palmboom Road. This beautiful stone church has been restored and is a national monument. Landmarks which tell of the town’s beer brewing history include the Josephine Mill, Forresters Arms Restaurant and Bar, one of the oldest pubs in South Africa, and the Newlands Brewery.
The area is well-known by sports fans as it is home to the 51 000-seater Newlands Stadium. The stadium is the oldest rugby stadium in South Africa and offers beautiful views of Table Mountain. Many local and international games have played out the stadium’s fields. Just a few minutes away is the Newlands Cricket Ground, the home grounds of the Western Province Cricket Union and the Cape Cobras. These lovely grounds are often the venue for test matches and one-day internationals.
The Newlands Forest, also part of the Table Mountain Nature Reserve, overlooks the Southern Suburbs and beyond offering exquisite views across to the Helderberg Mountains. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and Newlands locals who take in the fresh mountain air while exercising or walking their dogs.
For families considering a move into the area, you cannot go wrong in terms of education. The University of Cape Town is practically on the doorstep and is easy to get to thanks to the convenience of the Jammie Shuttle. Several top-quality schools also find their home in and around the area including the South African College Schools (SACS) Junior and High Schools, Westerford High School and close by you will also find Herschel Girls School and Western Province Preparatory (Wet Pups).
The Vineyard Hotel, Cavendish Shopping Centre and the Newlands Village as well as a host of hot and happening restaurants, including Barristers, Wijnhuis and Basilico add further to the allure and charm of the area. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to coffee shops too, Importers, Häzz, Cassis and Newbury are extremely popular meeting spots.
Situated within easy driving distance to Cape Town City, the Airport, major transport routes and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Newlands has much to offer the discerning buyer!
Find out more by contacting your neighbourhood specialists at Upton Properties today!
Call: 021 683 0008 or pop into our office above Barristers on Newlands Village circle.
Author: Upton Properties
