An escape from the hustle and bustle from the city streets, the Company Gardens is a tranquil retreat in the Middle of the Mother City. This beautiful garden is located behind the iconic People’s Cathedral

The History

The Gardens date back to the 1650’s,when the East India Company established a trading post in Cape Town. They constructed the gardens as a way of cultivating produce for bypassing ships. The garden includes beautiful botanical wonders, including the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa. The tree was planted on construction of the gardens, circa 1652. The historical gems are in abundance in the Company Gardens. Historical statues stand ready to meet you when you enter the gardens.

The Gardens are also home to the Dellville Wood Memorial Garden, which gives honor to the many South African soldiers that fought in the Dellville battle during the First world war.  Although the Historical features are marvelous, its overshadowed by the various fauna and flora of the Company Gardens.

Explore the surroundings

Situated Inside the gardens are the Iziko South African Museum and the Iziko National Gallery. Adjacent to the gardens are the National Library of South Africa as well as the Parliament and Tuynhuys. The South African Jewish Museum is just a short walk away.

Fauna and Flora

Home to many gems, it’s impossible to not be amazed by the sheer beauty of the Company Gardens. From a bamboo plantation with initials carved in, to the living fossil- Gingko Tree that has no more living relatives. There’s always a few squirrels running around the gardens, with local vendors eager to sell a few nuts. The garden is also home to the delicious Company Garden Restaurant. The Lawns are also perfectly suited for picnics.

The Rose garden, built in 1929, attracts many flora enthusiasts.The Avarian, placed near the Restaurant,  is a beautiful addition and the musical tweets of the birds can be heard throughout the Gardens.

When to visit

Entry into the Company Gardens is free, with many access points. Keep in mind that entry is time dependent when planning your visit to the garden.

Opening Times:

• Summer: 07h30 to 20h30
• Winter:    07h00 to 19h00