Things To Do Bishopscourt

Bishopscourt began as Bosheuvel, Jan van Riebeeck’s own farm granted in 1658. The Anglican Church bought it in 1851 and renamed it after the Bishop of Cape Town’s official residence, and it’s remained one of the country’s most exclusive addresses ever since. Its most significant moment in modern history came on 11 February 1990: hosted by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, this is where Nelson Mandela spent his first night of freedom after 27 years in prison, holding a press conference in the garden the next day.

Outdoor Adventures

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens sits right on the doorstep for birdwatching and picnics, with the Table Mountain National Park, Tokai and Cecilia forests all a short drive away. Bishopscourt itself is quiet, tree-lined, and largely free of the Cape Doctor wind that batters other parts of the city.

Food and Dining

Bishopscourt itself has little in the way of restaurants, most residents head to nearby Constantia and Rondebosch, or the Constantia wine estates for something more upmarket.

Family Friendly Activities

Large stands, good schools, and a genuinely low-density setting make Bishopscourt a strong choice for families who can afford it, with the World of Birds Sanctuary nearby for something different.

Nightlife and Culture

Bishopscourt is quiet after dark by design, residents and embassy security keep it that way. Newlands is the nearest option for anything livelier.

Bishopscourt by the Numbers

The Short Version

Bishopscourt pairs genuine South African history with some of the country’s most exclusive real estate, quiet, green, and low-density by design.