University of Cape Town

Cape Town


For the non-academic there’s no pressing reason to visit UCT, but it’s nonetheless an impressive place to walk around. Unfortunately, it has experienced violent student protests in recent years. The Upper Campus (west of the M3) presents a fairly cohesive architectural front, with ivy-covered neoclassical facades and a fine set of stone steps leading to the temple-like Jameson Hall. If you call ahead, it's possible to arrange a tour of the library.

If you approach UCT from Woolsack Dr, you’ll pass the Woolsack, a cottage designed in 1900 by Sir Herbert Baker for Cecil Rhodes. Now a student residence, it’s said that Rhodes' friend Rudyard Kipling wrote the poem 'If' during his sojourns here between 1900 and 1907.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Cape Town attractions

1. Rhodes Memorial

0.42 MILES

Partly modelled on the arch at London’s Hyde Park Corner, this monumental granite memorial stands on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, at a spot where…

2. Mostert's Mill

0.51 MILES

This real Dutch windmill dating from around 1796 is the only such working mill south of the Sahara. The thatched cap can rotate to face the wind. Check…

3. Groote Schuur

0.59 MILES

The grandest of Cecil Rhodes' former residences was also home to a succession of prime ministers and presidents, culminating with FW de Klerk. The…

4. Irma Stern Museum

0.6 MILES

The pioneering 20th-century artist Irma Stern (1894–1966), whose works are some of the most sought-after among modern South African painters, occupied…

5. King's Blockhouse

0.77 MILES

This defensive position, built by the British between 1795 and 1803, can be reached by a steep hiking path from behind the Rhodes Memorial or by walking…

6. Rondebosch Park

1.02 MILES

This park hosts events including the monthly community market, held every second Saturday from September to May, and the Rondebosch Potters Market in…

7. Newlands Brewery

1.04 MILES

In the early 19th century, Jacob Letterstedt built the Mariendahl Brewery in Newlands, a handsome building since granted National Heritage status. It's…

8. Springs Way

1.15 MILES

Just off Kildare Rd in Newlands, you may be intrigued to see a steady flow of cars pulling in and out of a suburban cul-de-sac. A clue lies in the road’s…