The Lord Milner Hotel
On the fringe of the Great Karoo, the Lord Milner Hotel appears as if out of a conjurer’s hat: an authentic tribute to Victoriana, and the heart of Matjiesfontein Village.
The Lord Milner is a graded three-star heritage site hotel and offers 15 classically furnished historic standard double rooms, and historic luxury and single rooms. Take a step back in time, to hear history’s palpable heartbeat—while the rooms have been tastefully updated in terms of linen and bathroom facilities—the experience will take you back to the Karoo of old.
The hotel was named for Lord Alfred Milner, who was the governor of the Cape during The South African War (Anglo-Boer War). The gracious grand dame was completed in 1899, and shortly thereafter served as the Headquarters of the Cape Western Command.
At The Lord Milner Hotel, historic ambience, old world service and classic comfort combine.
The Hotel Dining Room
The Dining Room at The Lord Milner Hotel has been serving its guests for the last 120 years; and boasts the same historic ambience found throughout Matjiesfontein. Dine in a Victorian setting filled with period antiques and let the red-jacketed porters welcome you and offer a selection of fine wines from across the Western Cape region. It’s here our head chef prepares a unique and contemporary take on many of South Africa’s traditional dishes, including Karoo springbok and lamb sourced from the local district.
The Laird’s Arms
Right next door to the Lord Milner Hotel is The Laird’s Arms. Enjoy a quiet pint or pub lunch in the historic, saloon-like atmosphere. Pub lunches are served daily between 12:00 and 14:30.
The Cafe
Take a stroll down Matjiesfontein’s main street, and pop in here for home-cooked hearty breakfasts, light lunches and a fine selection of baked goods. This relaxed eatery is the ideal spot for a quick bite or mid-morning coffee, with its variety of scones, cakes and koeksisters. The historic main building opens onto a lovely courtyard overlooking fountains and a pond.
Bike Friendly
Bikes are not only welcome at the hotel but this safe little town is especially bike friendly.
Things to do in Matjiesfontein
Take a trip on the Old London Bus, let yourself be summoned to dinner by trumpet, soak up the history in the Transport or Victoriana museums, take in the uniqueness of the Little Karoo with veld walks, hikes and mountain bikes, visit the Boer War British Army remount encampment site (c.1900) nearby, play a game of tennis or Petanque, or simply relax, and read in the hotel’s opulent lounges or by the residents only pool.