Bedford, South Africa
Where Country Charm Meets Vibrant Living
Tucked against the breathtaking Kaggaberg mountain, Bedford is a gem of the Eastern Cape, a place where life is lived with heart, humour, and a deep love for the land. Famous for our Bedford Country Gardens (held every October/November), we’re known for fun-loving farmers, fabulous hospitality, and landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Here, historic charm meets wide-open spaces. Rolling grasslands and dramatic valleys—Mankazana, Cowie, and Baviaans River—are home to Angoras, Merinos, beef cattle, goats, and game.
What's happening in Bedford?
Don't miss the 2025 Bedford Country Gardens on
31 Oct - 2 Nov 2025 and 7 - 9 Nov 2025
Bedford – The Heartbeat of the Countryside.
Stay in Bedford
Where Comfort Meets Country Charm
Stay a Night, Love it for Life.
Cavers Country Guest House 
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Tucked away on the scenic West Route, Olivewoods is a garden that captures the essence of quiet country beauty. Visitors are greeted by sweeping lawns, graceful old trees, and a tapestry of colourful flower beds.
Wendy, along with her faithful companions Alex and Pixie, will be there to welcome you into the garden. Take a leisurely stroll, soak up the serenity, and enjoy a glass of home-made limoncello under the shade of the trees.
A perfect pause along your Bedford Country Gardens journey.
#bedfordcountrygarden
Tucked away on the scenic West Route, Olivewoods is a garden that captures the essence of quiet country beauty. Visitors are greeted by sweeping lawns, graceful old trees, and a tapestry of colourful flower beds.
Wendy, along with her faithful companions Alex and Pixie, will be there to welcome you into the garden. Take a leisurely stroll, soak up the serenity, and enjoy a glass of home-made limoncello under the shade of the trees.
A perfect pause along your Bedford Country Gardens journey.
#bedfordcountrygarden
What an unforgettable start to this year’s Bedford Country Gardens! From vibrant blooms and historic homesteads to delicious local food and warm country hospitality. The magic of Bedford is unfolding beautifully.
If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, there’s still so much to see and do. Gardens, galleries, farm stalls, live talks, and the best of small-town charm await you.
Catch a glimpse of the magic in our highlights reel and be inspired to plan your visit. We can’t wait to welcome you!
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #easterncapegems #countryliving #gardeninspiration #supportlocal
What an unforgettable start to this year’s Bedford Country Gardens! From vibrant blooms and historic homesteads to delicious local food and warm country hospitality. The magic of Bedford is unfolding beautifully.
If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, there’s still so much to see and do. Gardens, galleries, farm stalls, live talks, and the best of small-town charm await you.
Catch a glimpse of the magic in our highlights reel and be inspired to plan your visit. We can’t wait to welcome you!
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #easterncapegems #countryliving #gardeninspiration #supportlocal
The South African Rosarium was designed many years ago by Dr Gwen Fagan, author of the acclaimed book “Roses at the Cape of Good Hope.” Her pioneering work traced the history of old roses across the Cape and beyond, discovering them flourishing beside farmhouses, churches, and gravestones throughout the Eastern Cape.
This garden was created to preserve the original genetic “mother material” of those historic roses. It is a true sanctuary for heritage varieties and a living tribute to Dr Fagan’s vision. She returned to visit in her 100th year and was delighted to see how beautifully her legacy continues to thrive. Now at 101, her passion still inspires the Rosarium’s mission.
Walter and Thozamile help us tend this special garden with such care and dedication. It was wonderful to spend time with fellow Rosarians and to chat with Dr David Comyn, chairman of the South African Rosarium Trust.
The Rosarium is proud to be a member of the International Heritage Rose Group, connecting our Eastern Cape garden to a global network of rose preservationists.
We’re also delighted that Dr Comyn has been invited as a special guest to attend and present at the World Heritage Rose Congress in China in 2026 . A wonderful recognition of the work being done here in Bedford.
During the Bedford Country Gardens this year, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the Rosarium and visit the Rose Café, serving delicious coffee, home-baked goods, and light refreshments — all surrounded by the scent of old roses in full bloom.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #southafricanrosarium #heritageroses #bedfordopengardens #easterncape #drgwenfagan #rosesofthecape
The South African Rosarium was designed many years ago by Dr Gwen Fagan, author of the acclaimed book “Roses at the Cape of Good Hope.” Her pioneering work traced the history of old roses across the Cape and beyond, discovering them flourishing beside farmhouses, churches, and gravestones throughout the Eastern Cape.
This garden was created to preserve the original genetic “mother material” of those historic roses. It is a true sanctuary for heritage varieties and a living tribute to Dr Fagan’s vision. She returned to visit in her 100th year and was delighted to see how beautifully her legacy continues to thrive. Now at 101, her passion still inspires the Rosarium’s mission.
Walter and Thozamile help us tend this special garden with such care and dedication. It was wonderful to spend time with fellow Rosarians and to chat with Dr David Comyn, chairman of the South African Rosarium Trust.
The Rosarium is proud to be a member of the International Heritage Rose Group, connecting our Eastern Cape garden to a global network of rose preservationists.
We’re also delighted that Dr Comyn has been invited as a special guest to attend and present at the World Heritage Rose Congress in China in 2026 . A wonderful recognition of the work being done here in Bedford.
During the Bedford Country Gardens this year, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the Rosarium and visit the Rose Café, serving delicious coffee, home-baked goods, and light refreshments — all surrounded by the scent of old roses in full bloom.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #southafricanrosarium #heritageroses #bedfordopengardens #easterncape #drgwenfagan #rosesofthecape
A message from Barbara from Donkerhoek on the Cowie Valley Route:
Can you believe it’s been 14 years since we returned to this beautiful valley?
This marks our 13th year of opening the Donkerhoek vegetable garden to all you marvellous visitors who travel from far and wide!
Phumla, our much-loved scone maker, will be back doing what she does best, serving her famous scones with Hogsback berry jam and fresh cream.
Meanwhile, Mbhuti has been hard at work with veggie sowing, planting, and making rich compost to keep everything thriving.
Many of our plants happily self-seed, so there are always exciting surprises to discover and yes, poppy seeds will be on sale!
We’re so looking forward to welcoming you over the next two weekends.
Travel safely and see you soon!
Cheers from the Donkerhoek team,
Barbara 🐝
#bedfordcountrygardens2025 #openweekend #gardeninginspiration #donkerhoek
A message from Barbara from Donkerhoek on the Cowie Valley Route:
Can you believe it’s been 14 years since we returned to this beautiful valley?
This marks our 13th year of opening the Donkerhoek vegetable garden to all you marvellous visitors who travel from far and wide!
Phumla, our much-loved scone maker, will be back doing what she does best, serving her famous scones with Hogsback berry jam and fresh cream.
Meanwhile, Mbhuti has been hard at work with veggie sowing, planting, and making rich compost to keep everything thriving.
Many of our plants happily self-seed, so there are always exciting surprises to discover and yes, poppy seeds will be on sale!
We’re so looking forward to welcoming you over the next two weekends.
Travel safely and see you soon!
Cheers from the Donkerhoek team,
Barbara 🐝
#bedfordcountrygardens2025 #openweekend #gardeninginspiration #donkerhoek
The Bedford Country Gardens has opened in style with a sparkling celebration held at The Duke of Bedford. Guests gathered to toast the start of this much-loved annual event with champagne and canapés, marking the beginning of two beautiful weekends showcasing Bedford’s finest gardens, creativity, and community spirit.
#bedfordcountrygardens #dukeofbedford #hopestreethub #happeninginhopestreet #bedfordopengardens
The Bedford Country Gardens has opened in style with a sparkling celebration held at The Duke of Bedford. Guests gathered to toast the start of this much-loved annual event with champagne and canapés, marking the beginning of two beautiful weekends showcasing Bedford’s finest gardens, creativity, and community spirit.
#bedfordcountrygardens #dukeofbedford #hopestreethub #happeninginhopestreet #bedfordopengardens
Belmont, as Ria says, “It’s a piece of heaven.” Majestic mountains frame this peaceful, colourful, 50-year-old garden - where something old, something new, and definitely something blue awaits.
Masses of roses and shrubs fill the beds, mingling with river stones and quirky treasures from the farm. You’ll find plants from a bygone era, towering old trees, and a lawn that invites you to linger.
Just a short 7km drive from Fairholt, the journey to Belmont is as beautiful as the destination. A scenic route through the Baviaans countryside that sets the tone for the tranquil charm that awaits.
Belmont Farm is completely off-grid, with a donkey for hot water, solar and wind power, and a trusty Lister engine to keep things humming. A visit here is not just about the garden, but about experiencing a way of life deeply connected to nature and the land.
#bedfordcountrygardens #bedford #bedfordopengardens #bedfordcountrygardens2025 #hopestreethub #opengardenssouthafrica #opengardens #gardentime #belmont #dukeofbedford #apprenticedeli #deoudefabreeck
Belmont, as Ria says, “It’s a piece of heaven.” Majestic mountains frame this peaceful, colourful, 50-year-old garden - where something old, something new, and definitely something blue awaits.
Masses of roses and shrubs fill the beds, mingling with river stones and quirky treasures from the farm. You’ll find plants from a bygone era, towering old trees, and a lawn that invites you to linger.
Just a short 7km drive from Fairholt, the journey to Belmont is as beautiful as the destination. A scenic route through the Baviaans countryside that sets the tone for the tranquil charm that awaits.
Belmont Farm is completely off-grid, with a donkey for hot water, solar and wind power, and a trusty Lister engine to keep things humming. A visit here is not just about the garden, but about experiencing a way of life deeply connected to nature and the land.
#bedfordcountrygardens #bedford #bedfordopengardens #bedfordcountrygardens2025 #hopestreethub #opengardenssouthafrica #opengardens #gardentime #belmont #dukeofbedford #apprenticedeli #deoudefabreeck
The Apprentice Deli will be serving up a beautiful harvest table with delicious choices of lamb, prawns, and beef, alongside fresh, seasonal salads bursting with flavour.
Their famous pizzas will also be on the menu, together with freshly baked cakes and goods, take-away meals, home-made products, and those much-loved cappuccinos.
Make sure to stop by and enjoy the warm hospitality and mouth-watering local flavours at The Apprentice Deli during your Bedford Country Gardens weekend.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
The Apprentice Deli will be serving up a beautiful harvest table with delicious choices of lamb, prawns, and beef, alongside fresh, seasonal salads bursting with flavour.
Their famous pizzas will also be on the menu, together with freshly baked cakes and goods, take-away meals, home-made products, and those much-loved cappuccinos.
Make sure to stop by and enjoy the warm hospitality and mouth-watering local flavours at The Apprentice Deli during your Bedford Country Gardens weekend.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
Developed from what was once an abandoned tennis court, the formal area of the garden has been carefully planned and nurtured since 2019. Over time, various plantings have been tried and tested, resulting in a resilient, water wise landscape that thrives in local conditions. The garden is framed by handsome salt bush hedges – a hardy local fodder crop – that provide structure and shelter for the predominantly indigenous plantings within.
Wild garlic, agapanthus, salt bush, lavender, aloes and vygies(mesems) form the backbone of the design, their textures and colours interspersed with a variety of roses that add seasonal charm. Despite the residents’ busy lives and limited gardening time, the space flourishes with the support of a weekly gardener, an occasional helper for watering and weeding, and a system of sprayers and drippers.
Almost every plant has been propagated on site, a testament to patience and creativity. As the trees and hedges mature and new microclimates emerge, the garden continues to evolve—an ever-changing reflection of growth, adaptation, and quiet dedication.
#bedfordcountrygardens #opengardenssa #fairholt #waterwisegardening #bedford
Developed from what was once an abandoned tennis court, the formal area of the garden has been carefully planned and nurtured since 2019. Over time, various plantings have been tried and tested, resulting in a resilient, water wise landscape that thrives in local conditions. The garden is framed by handsome salt bush hedges – a hardy local fodder crop – that provide structure and shelter for the predominantly indigenous plantings within.
Wild garlic, agapanthus, salt bush, lavender, aloes and vygies(mesems) form the backbone of the design, their textures and colours interspersed with a variety of roses that add seasonal charm. Despite the residents’ busy lives and limited gardening time, the space flourishes with the support of a weekly gardener, an occasional helper for watering and weeding, and a system of sprayers and drippers.
Almost every plant has been propagated on site, a testament to patience and creativity. As the trees and hedges mature and new microclimates emerge, the garden continues to evolve—an ever-changing reflection of growth, adaptation, and quiet dedication.
#bedfordcountrygardens #opengardenssa #fairholt #waterwisegardening #bedford
Come join us at De Oude Fabreeck as we celebrate 23 years of the Bedford Country Gardens Weekend!
Whether you’re just popping in for a coffee & sweet treat, letting the kids enjoy a milkshake or grabbing a tasty home-cooked lunch at our local Garden Faire - there’s something special waiting for you!
Shop for a variety of handmade Christmas gifts at our stalls, pick up some beautiful plants in our nursery or join us later for a vibey dinner with live tunes!
Whatever your vibe… come experience the magic, the people, and the warmth that make Bedford so special.
De Oude Fabreeck, Bedford
Bedford Country Gardens Weekend
@deoudefabreeck
#DeOudeFabreeck #BedfordCountryGardens #GardenWeekendVibes #EasternCapeEvents #LocalLove #SmallTownCharm #bedfordsa
Come join us at De Oude Fabreeck as we celebrate 23 years of the Bedford Country Gardens Weekend!
Whether you’re just popping in for a coffee & sweet treat, letting the kids enjoy a milkshake or grabbing a tasty home-cooked lunch at our local Garden Faire - there’s something special waiting for you!
Shop for a variety of handmade Christmas gifts at our stalls, pick up some beautiful plants in our nursery or join us later for a vibey dinner with live tunes!
Whatever your vibe… come experience the magic, the people, and the warmth that make Bedford so special.
De Oude Fabreeck, Bedford
Bedford Country Gardens Weekend
@deoudefabreeck
#DeOudeFabreeck #BedfordCountryGardens #GardenWeekendVibes #EasternCapeEvents #LocalLove #SmallTownCharm #bedfordsa
Six years ago, Taryn took over the Eildon garden from her mother-in-law — a space already rich with history and care. With little gardening knowledge but plenty of curiosity, she soon discovered the quiet joy and deep satisfaction that come from nurturing a landscape. Over time, the garden grew into more than a collection of plants — it became a reflection of her love for nature and her respect for the process of growth.
Two years ago, Sikelela joined her on this journey. Together, Taryn and Sikelela tend to every leaf, petal, and patch of soil, transforming Eildon into a vibrant oasis that flourishes under their shared care.
What began as an inherited garden has become a living testament to learning, patience, and the joy of growth. Today, this flourishing haven is more than just a garden — it’s a gathering place where family and friends come together to relax, connect, and celebrate life’s simple pleasures.
Of course, not everything in the garden stays untouched — Pony, the horse has been enjoying a few of the roses lately! (Swipe to the last pic to see the culprit.)
Surrounded by colour, fragrance, and laughter, Taryn’s garden stands as a sanctuary of love, growth, and community.
#bedfordcountrygardens2025 #bedford #mountainroute #eildon #opengardenssa
Six years ago, Taryn took over the Eildon garden from her mother-in-law — a space already rich with history and care. With little gardening knowledge but plenty of curiosity, she soon discovered the quiet joy and deep satisfaction that come from nurturing a landscape. Over time, the garden grew into more than a collection of plants — it became a reflection of her love for nature and her respect for the process of growth.
Two years ago, Sikelela joined her on this journey. Together, Taryn and Sikelela tend to every leaf, petal, and patch of soil, transforming Eildon into a vibrant oasis that flourishes under their shared care.
What began as an inherited garden has become a living testament to learning, patience, and the joy of growth. Today, this flourishing haven is more than just a garden — it’s a gathering place where family and friends come together to relax, connect, and celebrate life’s simple pleasures.
Of course, not everything in the garden stays untouched — Pony, the horse has been enjoying a few of the roses lately! (Swipe to the last pic to see the culprit.)
Surrounded by colour, fragrance, and laughter, Taryn’s garden stands as a sanctuary of love, growth, and community.
#bedfordcountrygardens2025 #bedford #mountainroute #eildon #opengardenssa
LOCAL FLAVOURS – Bedford Country Gardens 2025
There’s no shortage of delicious food to enjoy during the Bedford Country Gardens! From harvest tables and homemade pizzas to hearty farm meals and freshly brewed coffee — there’s something for everyone.
BREAKFAST, BRUNCH & LUNCH
Apprentice Deli
@theapprenticedeli
Garden Faire @ De Oude Fabreeck
@deoudefabreeck
The Duke of Bedford
@dukeofbedfordsa
FOOD ON THE GO
Apprentice Deli – Harvest table & take-aways
De Oude Fabreeck – Harvest table & meals on the go
The Duke of Bedford – Gourmet open sandwiches & à la carte
SA Rosarium – Rose Café with home-made bakes & refreshments
FARM FOODS
The Orchard Farm – Friday: Chicken Wraps. The rest of the weekends, home-made pizzas
Kokskraal – Coffee, tea & light eats
Eildon (2nd weekend only) – Ploughman’s platter & wine
Lynedoch (1st weekend only) – Home-made vetkoek & refreshments
Glen Lynden Church – Hearty mutton & chicken potjies, hotdogs & refreshments
Donkerhoek – Coffee & tea with home-made scones, jam & cream
Cavers – Light lunches, pies, quiches & salads (cash bar)
The Mill Cricket Grounds – Bring your own braai or picnic. Firewood available
BOOK FOR DINNER IN ADVANCE
Apprentice Deli – Pizzas until 8 pm
Bedford Club – Famous Steak Night (Saturday) 082 479 6671
Butcherbird (2nd weekend only) – Dinner 082 359 7002
De Oude Fabreeck – Harvest table & meals on the go 046 685 0994
The Duke of Bedford – À la carte 078 511 9689
Come hungry — and make the most of Bedford’s finest country flavours!
#bedfordcountrygardens #OpenGardens #opengarden #LocalFlavours #deliciousfood #countrygardens #getawayeasterncape
LOCAL FLAVOURS – Bedford Country Gardens 2025
There’s no shortage of delicious food to enjoy during the Bedford Country Gardens! From harvest tables and homemade pizzas to hearty farm meals and freshly brewed coffee — there’s something for everyone.
BREAKFAST, BRUNCH & LUNCH
Apprentice Deli
@theapprenticedeli
Garden Faire @ De Oude Fabreeck
@deoudefabreeck
The Duke of Bedford
@dukeofbedfordsa
FOOD ON THE GO
Apprentice Deli – Harvest table & take-aways
De Oude Fabreeck – Harvest table & meals on the go
The Duke of Bedford – Gourmet open sandwiches & à la carte
SA Rosarium – Rose Café with home-made bakes & refreshments
FARM FOODS
The Orchard Farm – Friday: Chicken Wraps. The rest of the weekends, home-made pizzas
Kokskraal – Coffee, tea & light eats
Eildon (2nd weekend only) – Ploughman’s platter & wine
Lynedoch (1st weekend only) – Home-made vetkoek & refreshments
Glen Lynden Church – Hearty mutton & chicken potjies, hotdogs & refreshments
Donkerhoek – Coffee & tea with home-made scones, jam & cream
Cavers – Light lunches, pies, quiches & salads (cash bar)
The Mill Cricket Grounds – Bring your own braai or picnic. Firewood available
BOOK FOR DINNER IN ADVANCE
Apprentice Deli – Pizzas until 8 pm
Bedford Club – Famous Steak Night (Saturday) 082 479 6671
Butcherbird (2nd weekend only) – Dinner 082 359 7002
De Oude Fabreeck – Harvest table & meals on the go 046 685 0994
The Duke of Bedford – À la carte 078 511 9689
Come hungry — and make the most of Bedford’s finest country flavours!
#bedfordcountrygardens #OpenGardens #opengarden #LocalFlavours #deliciousfood #countrygardens #getawayeasterncape
The Bedford Country Gardens 2025 brochure is out!
You’ll find all the details you need inside – from garden listings and routes to talks, food stops, and accommodation.
Brochures can be collected from various points around town and at the garden show venues.
See you in the gardens!
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
The Bedford Country Gardens 2025 brochure is out!
You’ll find all the details you need inside – from garden listings and routes to talks, food stops, and accommodation.
Brochures can be collected from various points around town and at the garden show venues.
See you in the gardens!
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub