10 Interesting Things to do in Grahamstown

Although Grahamstown has a population size of 75,000, it’s a place integral to the history of South Africa – and by the way – it has a good few activities to keep you busy should you pop in for a visit. Filled to the brim with 19th-century history, the nation’s second-oldest town awaits those who want to visit this beautiful place. VVP Travel is here to ensure that your journey to this historical gem is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.


1. 1820 Settlers National Monument



Source: Facebook / @ Grahamstown Foundation - 1820 Settlers National Monument


Perched atop a hill in Grahamstown near Rhodes University, the 1820 Settlers National Monument is a striking testament to the English settlers who arrived in South Africa over 200 years ago. Originally inaugurated in 1974 and rebuilt after a fire in 1994, the monument blends historical reverence with modern enhancements like the beautiful Fountain Court Statue. This monument plays a significant role in the town, serving as both a memorial and a cultural hub.


2. Experience Provost Prison



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Step into history at Provost Prison, a military prison built in 1838 under the direction of Sir Benjamin d’Urban, then governor of the Cape Colony. Designed on Jeremy Bentham’s panopticon principle, the penitentiary allowed guards to observe inmates from a central tower. Today, this national monument offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century military life and architecture, with its circular design and imposing guardhouse.


3. Visit Rhodes University



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Rhodes University, founded in 1904, is a beacon of academic excellence in the Eastern Cape. This prestigious institution is surrounded by historic Victorian architecture, lush greenery, and a lively arts scene. Visitors to the campus can explore its rich history, admire the blend of old and new, and enjoy the institution’s cultural offerings, making it a perfect destination for those interested in education and exploration.


4. Lalibela Game Reserve



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Located 30 minutes from Grahamstown, Lalibela Game Reserve spans 10,500 hectares and encompasses five ecosystems, offering a rich diversity of flora and fauna. This malaria-free reserve is part of the Indalo Protected Environment and is home to the Big Five and more. Visitors can explore exceptional game viewing, luxury accommodations, and great food, all while contributing to conservation efforts in this legally protected area.


5. Frasers Camp Adventures



Image courtesy sacschool.com


Discover the thrill of adventure at Frasers Camp, the first zipline tour in Frontier Country. Just 38 km from Grahamstown, this adrenaline-pumping experience offers guided tours across six zipline cables that soar up to a dizzying 70 km over the scenic Eastern Cape bushveld. Nestled in a historic area near several game reserves, Frasers Camp Adventures is a must-visit for thrill-seekers.


6. National Arts Festival



Source: Facebook / @ National Arts Festival Makhanda


The Grahamstown National Arts Festival is Africa’s largest cultural event, attracting over 50,000 visitors annually. For 11 days in June and July, the town transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity, with performances in incredible art displays of all kinds. From opera and theatre to craft markets and street performances, the festival offers something for everyone. Visitors are advised to book accommodations in advance, as this event fills the town with artists, performers, and art enthusiasts.


7. Bedford Country Gardens



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Each year, the Bedford Country Gardens event invites nature lovers to explore the serene beauty of Grahamstown’s countryside. Visitors can wander peacefully through picturesque farm gardens, enjoy refreshments, and soak in the region’s rich biodiversity. The event also offers hiking, trail-running, and mountain biking opportunities, making it a perfect weekend escape for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and garden inspiration.


8. Albany Museum



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Established in 1855, the Albany Museum in Grahamstown is the second oldest museum in South Africa and a treasure trove of natural and cultural history. The museum complex includes seven buildings, each housing unique collections—from fossils and ethnographic materials to historical artefacts along with fine art. Affiliated with Rhodes University, Albany Museum offers a deep dive into the town’s heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious minds.


9. The Grahamstown Cathedral



Source: Facebook / @ Grahamstown Cathedral


The Cathedral of St Michael and St George, known as the Grahamstown Cathedral, has been a landmark since 1830. With its towering spire designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1879, the cathedral holds a wealth of history within its walls. Visitors can explore memorial plaques commemorating fallen soldiers and discover the significance of the continent’s first full ring of eight bells, cast in London in 1878. The cathedral is a profound connection to Grahamstown’s rich British past.


10. Amazwi South African Museum of Literature



Source: Facebook / @ Amazwi South African Museum of Literature


Amazwi South African Museum of Literature is a cultural gem dedicated to preserving South Africa’s literary heritage. Founded in 1972 by Professor Guy Butler of Rhodes University, the museum has evolved into a comprehensive repository of literary artefacts in all South African languages. Renamed in 2019, Amazwi continues to celebrate the nation’s rich literary history, offering visitors a deep dive into the various narratives that have shaped South Africa’s cultural diversity.