History
Province Western Cape
Coordinates 33°56′0″S 18°24′30″E
Area 1.90 km2
Municipality: City Of Cape Town
Gardens is one of the oldest parts of Cape Town, probably named after the original gardens planted by Jan Van Riebeek to supply passing ships with fresh produce. The garden was established in 1652 shortly after the Dutch arrived here. It was laid out along the bank of the Fresh River by Hendrik Boom, who was the company’s master gardener. The garden was planted mainly with vegetables but there was also a medicine garden. Within a few years the garden grew to 18 hectares in size. When more produce became available from farms established along the banks of the Liesbeek River, the garden was slowly converted to an ornamental and botanical garden.
Today Gardens is a vibrant trendy suburb with many restaurants, sidewalk coffee shops and art galleries along interesting streets.
Things to see and do in gardens
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- Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel,
- Company’s Garden,
- Labia Theatre,
- Take a guided walk through the neighbourhood with Voice Map
- Michaelis School of Fine Art,
- De Waal Park
- Rugley Road Park is a fenced playground. You can relax under the trees while the children play
- The Ubuntu Tree at 99 Kloof Street planted over 400 years ago is believed to have magical and spiritual healing properties. The tree, also called“Nokuphila” ( Xhosa) “,’ place of the healing mother, where people gather for health and wellness.”This tree and other trees marked the border of a dam that held water that ran from the mountain, and people would gather to collect the fresh water. There is now a courtyard of a health and wellness centre built around the tree where it still provides a place to receive, refresh, and inspire people.
- The postcode for Gardens is 8001
WEATHER IN GARDENs
all listings in gardens
Useful Numbers
- Police: Cape Town Central- 021-4678078
- Traffic department: Gallows Hill – 0860 103 089
- Fire: Cape Town Central- 021 444 8963
- Water: 0860 103 089
- Electricity: 0860 103 089
- Ambulance: 10177
- Post office; 021 465 1013
- Library: Cape Town (National Library)- 021 424 6320
- Closest hospital; Mediclinic- 021 464 5500
- Pharmacy; Zetler Pharmacy-021 465 4217
- SPCA: Cape Of Good Hope Grassy Park-021 700 4140
- Schools:
Gardens Commercial High School-021 465 1236
Summit House-021 422 2299
Cape Town High School-021 424 2168
Cape Town French School, -021 461 2508
St Mary’s Primary School-021 465 1115
Hoërskool Jan van Riebeeck[3]-021 423 6347
Good Hope Seminary High School-021 465 2330
Tamboerskloof Primary School-021 423 6338
CTTH – Cape Town Torah High School-021 461 2524
Maara House-083 260 6489
Laerskool Jan Van Riebeeck-021 423 4209
- Museums;
- Iziko South African Museum 021 481 3800. The South African Museum, which is the oldest in the country, was established in 1825.
- The small Jewish museum is at the local shul-021 465 1546
- -South African National Gallery-021 481 3970
Adjacent suburbs are; Bo Kaap; Devils Peak estate; Higgovale; Oranjezicht; Tamboerskloof and Vredehoek
FAQs about Gardens, Cape Town
1. Where is Gardens?
This is a central suburb of Cape Town, located at the foot of Table Mountain, near the city centre and the Company’s Garden.
2. What is Gardens known for?
Gardens is famous for its historic architecture, museums, art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés, as well as its proximity to Table Mountain and the Company’s Garden.
3. How do I get to Gardens?
Gardens is easily accessible by car via the M3 or Buitengracht Street. It’s also close to the Cape Town train station and has multiple MyCiTi bus stops.
4. Are there parking options in Gardens?
Yes. There are street parking bays, municipal parking lots, and private parking at hotels and shopping areas. Parking can be limited during peak hours.
5. What attractions are in Gardens?
Key attractions include the Company’s Garden, Iziko South African Museum, Planetarium, Cathedral of St George, and Greenmarket Square.
6. Are there restaurants and cafés?
Yes. There is a variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars, offering international cuisine, local dishes, and coffee spots for visitors and locals alike.
7. Is Gardens family-friendly?
Yes. The suburb offers parks, museums, and easy walking access to attractions, making it suitable for families and children.
8. Can I walk or cycle in Gardens?
Yes. the suburb is very walkable, with safe pedestrian paths. Cycling is allowed on most streets, but be mindful of traffic.
9. Are there shopping options?
Yes. Boutique shops, art galleries, and souvenir stores are scattered throughout the suburb, especially along Kloof Street and Loop Street.
10. Is Gardens safe?
Yes it is generally safe during the day. Standard urban safety precautions apply, especially at night or in quieter streets.
11. Are there local accommodation options?
Yes. there is a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments, many within walking distance of key attractions.
12. What is the best time to visit?
The area is enjoyable year-round. Summer is popular for outdoor cafés and walking tours, while winter is quieter but still scenic with views of Table Mountain.
Updated October 2025
