Kenilworth, a brief look back in time
Category Lifestyle
Cape Town has a rich history with the Southern Suburbs some of the earliest residential areas to develop, initially as farms and a transport route with staging posts for horses and wagons heading to and from Muizenberg and beyond on the False Bay coastline.
From 1814-1824 Lord Charles Somerset, then governor of the Cape Colony, lived on a farm in the Kenilworth Upper area. Following the establishment of the racecourse and train station in 1882, the area became more sought-after and mansions were built to the west of the racecourse. During the second Anglo-Boer War the racecourse was temporarily used to house Boer prisoners of war.
By the early 1900s, settlements started springing up, mostly workers cottages and accommodation around the railway line. The area was also affected by the forced removals under the Group Areas Act in the 1950s.
Today, Kenilworth is a highly sought-after neighbourhood for its convenience, access to top schools and amenities and choice of property. Like most areas of the Southern Suburbs, the average selling prices have doubled since 2010, although price growth has slowed since 2018 due to economic pressure on the market.
The area offers a number of key attractions such as:
Kenilworth Racecourse - is not only the oldest in the country but hosts prestigious events. The Sun Met (previously the J&B Met), held in late January each year for example draws visitors and high-profile racehorses, trainers and jockeys from all over the world. The Queens Plate, smaller, but more prestigious is held about 2-3 weeks prior to the Met each year.
The 52-hectare Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area, established in 1985, is at the centre of the racetrack and an important conservation area and seasonal wetland, hosting many indigenous species of Cape sand fynbos fauna and flora.
Kenilworth Railway Station - not just of historic significant but is also on the main line from Cape Town to Simons Town offering residents and tourists' easy access to the attractions of Kalk Bay, Muizenberg and Simons Town for a fabulous day out.
Main Road - runs from Central Cape Town all the way through Kenilworth and onto Simons Town. The road is at the heart of the Southern Suburbs and forms an important commercial centre with businesses, office blocks, shopping centres, medical care and more within easy access of residents.
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Author: Gina Meintjes
