This Hotel In South Africa's Karoo Remains Unchanged For 100 Years

Matjiesfontein was founded in 1884 by Scottish railwayman James Douglas Logan and is a popular overnight stop for travellers. The town was named a National Heritage Site in 1975 and The Lord Milner Hotel lies in the heart of this quaint village.

Matjiesfontein is one of those unique towns that’s not on all travel itineraries but really should be. It’s a tiny town, with a rich history and much to explore. Plus it’s not far from Cape Town (an approximate three-hour drive), the hotel serves an impressive breakfast, and the staff will entertain you with some thrilling ghost stories.

The Karoo town of Matjiesfontein is situated approximately 110 kilometres (68 miles) from Sutherland

History of The Lord Milner Hotel

In 1968, well-known hotelier David Rawdon purchased Matjiesfontein Village

In the Royal Lounge, visitors can view portrayals of the life of founder James Logan, as well as other famous Victorian personalities who visited Matjiesfontein. The town was known for being a health resort, specifically for those with lung problems, and guests included Lord Randolph Churchill (father of Sir Winston), Rudyard Kipling and Cecil John Rhodes.

The yellow lounge in the Lord Milner Hotel

Staying at the Lord Milner Hotel

Virtually unchanged since its establishment, visiting The Lord Milner Hotel is like travelling back in time. A graded three-star heritage site hotel, it offers guests classic-styled double, luxury and single rooms. The building is a tribute to Victorian architecture, with a historically preserved interior, with linen and bathroom updates being the only exceptions.

Opulent interiors are reminiscent of a bygone era

The large, opulent dining room is famous for its breakfast service and has an old-world charm. Porters don red jackets and serve succulent meals on silver trays.

The swimming pool at the Lord Milner Hotel is ideal in the Karoo heat

The hotel, notorious for its ghost sightings, is said to be haunted by a variety of ghosts, and visitors often report hearing laughter late at night. A chat with the hotel manager will send goosebumps down anyone’s spine.

The Lord Milner offers 15 classically furnished, historic standard double rooms, and historic luxury and single rooms

What to do in Matjiesfontein

Although a small town, Matjiesfontein has many attractions and activities for adults and children alike.

The Marie Rawdon Museum, situated in the train station, is home to a collection of Victorian memorabilia, from household items to war souvenirs. There’s also the Transport Museum, on the edge of Matjiesfontein, that features an impressive collection of vintage cars from the 1930s to 1960s, antique bicycles, as well as a steam train.

One visit to The Marie Rawdon Museum isn’t enough to take in the vast collection of Victoriana

After all the sightseeing, visitors are bound to be in need of a drink and a bite to eat. The Laird’s Arms Pub is from a bygone era and has a saloon-like atmosphere.

The Transport Museum’s collection includes two Royal Daimlers from King George VI’s 1947 tour of South Africa

After spending the day in town make sure to book a sunset tour. Each night at 6pm, except on Sundays, visitors can tour the town on a London double-decker bus. Operating since 1980, the tours are short, entertaining, and you’re bound to learn a lot about this impressive little town.

Take a trip on the Old London Bus for an unforgettable tour of Matjiesfontein

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