In Bathurst, South Africa , you can visit several historical landmarks and sites. Here are some of the notable ones in driving distance from the center of town and easily accessible by car, bike or foot:
1. The Big Pineapple: Built in the 1980s, this giant pineapple-shaped structure is a popular tourist attraction and is the largest of its kind in the world. It represents the importance of the pineapple industry in the region and future growth of the industry. It is has a shop on the first floor and 2 further floors of pineapple history and education until you reach the top floor and a beautiful 360 degree view of Bathurst and the Indian Ocean overlooking Port Alfred.
Find it on Google Maps
2. Bathurst Agricultural Museum: Located just as you driving into the village of Bathurst from the Grahamstown side and just next to the Bathurst Show Grounds, the museum exhibits agricultural tools, machinery, and artifacts from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Find it on Google Maps.
3. Have a swig at the Pig! This historic Pig and Whistle Inn: built in 1821, is one of South Africa ‘s oldest continuously operating pubs. It has preserved its old-world charm and is a great place to grab a drink and soak in the history of the quirky town. Find it on Google Maps.
4. Wesleyan Chapel: Constructed in 1832, the Wesleyan Chapel is the oldest Methodist church in South Africa . Was the first church built in Bathurst. The first service was held in May 1832. It was interesting to note that Samuel Bradshaw built both of the churches in Bathurst. It still holds regular services and is a significant religious site. Find it on Google Maps.
5. Bradshaw’s Mill: Also known as the Bathurst Mill, this water-powered flour mill was built in 1821 and is one of the oldest surviving mills in South Africa. It has been restored and is open to visitors.6. Bathurst Agricultural Show: If you visit during the right time, you might catch the Bathurst Agricultural Show, an annual event that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage and showcases local produce, animals, and crafts. Find it on Google Maps.
6. St Johns Church: The Anglican church in Bathurst is the church of St John the Evangelist, it is a church with a long and interesting history. The worshippers at this church are mainly from the village of Bathurst and the surrounding farming community. Find it on Google Maps.
7. Historic Settler Cottages: Take a stroll through the village to admire the well-preserved 1820 Settler cottages, which showcase the architectural style of the early European settlers in the area. The Fishermans Cottage on York Street, The Rectory on Bird Street, Morley House on Kowie and many of the other historic 18th century buildings.
8. The Toposcope: The Toposcope is a heritage site commemorating the 1820 settlers and their descendants. It is located on a particularly scenic hill with many landscape views. Plaques reflecting the names and ships of the parties arriving in the Eastern Cape in 1820 appear around the Toposcope. The plaques create a compass direction indicating the location of the various settler parties. As a tourist attraction this monument and others in Bathurst are the lifeblood of tourism driven job creation in the area. Find it on Google Maps.
9. Powder Magazine: Built in 1821, the Powder Magazine is the oldest extant building in Bathurst. The building itself boasts a unique domed ceiling and walls of 60cm thickness. Find it on Google Maps.
10. Bathurst Primary School: This building was erected in 1831 as the previous buildings became to small for the numbers of children. it has been in constant use since then and it has approximately 200 kids from Nolukanyo. Find it on Google Maps.
These are just a few examples of the historical attractions you can explore in Bathurst, South Africa.
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