Towns and suburbs

Kenilworth

Kenilworth is a well-established suburb in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs. It lies near Claremont and Wynberg, offering convenient access to schools, shopping centres, and public transport. The area combines residential streets with commercial hubs, making it a practical location for families and businesses alike.

Kenilworth is situated in the southern suburbs of Cape Town, Western Cape. It borders Claremont to the north-west and Wynberg to the south-east. The suburb is close to Main Road and the N2, providing easy access to the city centre and surrounding areas. Kenilworth is known for its mix of residential and commercial zones, including schools, shopping areas, and green spaces.

History of Kenilworth

Kenilworth has a rich history going back to the early 19th century. It started as a residential area to service the growing population of Cape Town, and it has retained much of its old-world appeal. There are many well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian houses in the neighbourhood.

During the time that Lord Charles Somerset was governor of the Cape Colony ( between 1814 and 1824), he lived on a farm in Kenilworth.

The racecourse was established in 1882, and the railway station was built at the same time. The suburb became a sought-after area in which to live, and several large homes were built here.

A little-known fact is that the racecourse was used as a prisoner-of-war camp during the Second Anglo-Boer War

The postcode in Kenilworth is 7780

Transport

Kenilworth is served by Metrorail,  Golden Arrow Bus Services, and minibus taxis. See linked pages for details. Other options for getting around the Western Cape.

Things to see and do in Kenilworth:

  •  Racecourse. The oldest racecourse in the country was established in 1882, Grade 1 horse races are held here throughout the year.
  • The Cape Town Met:  First held in 1883, initially known as the Metropolitan Mile, the race originally was over the mile distance. The distance increased to 1800m in 1915.
  • Take a short walking tour compiled by learners at the Cedar House prep school
  • Racecourse Conservation Area.

Resources

Practical information for the Western Cape, Regulations, permits and helpful tips. See the Colourdots coastal and nature use guide

local weather today

Browse businesses and places to visit in Kenilworth

 

Useful Numbers

Residents and visitors can find important local contact numbers below, including police, medical services, utilities, and community facilities

  • Emergency Services

  • Police:  Claremont-021 799 1300
  • Fire:  Wynberg 021 444 9623`
  • Ambulance:10177

  • Medical

  • Closest hospital/clinic; Medicross · 021 683 5867
  • Pharmacy; 021 673 2060

  • Municipal & Utilities

  • Water:0860 103 089
  •  Electricity:0860 103 089

  • Transport & Roads

  • Traffic Department: Hillstar Traffic Department-0860 103 089

  • Community & Safety

  • NSRI 087 094 9774
  • SPCA: 021 700 4140

  • Local Contacts and Community Resources 

  • Post office;021 762 4483
  • Library:Claremont-021 673 206

  • Schools in Kenilworth

  • Michel Oak Waldorf school  021 797 9728
  •  Cedar House 021 762 0649
  • Cedar House Preparatory School 021 762 0649
  •  Girls’ and Boys’ Town Kenilworth  021 671 0788
  •   Auburn House School  021 787 7872
  •    Voortrekker High School 021 762 4268
  • Find a comprehensive list of Cape Town Emergency numbers HERE

 

  • The City of Cape Town Public Emergency Communication Centre is available 24/7 For all life or property-threatening emergencies. Call 021 480 7700 from any phone or 107 from a landline or report online at https://bit.ly/3o4Ji3K

 

  • Colourdots is an independent regional information resource for the Western Cape.
    Learn more about the project HERE

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