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 2026 Bedford Country Gardens on
30 OCT 1 & 2 NOV and 6 7 & 8 NOV 2026
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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We are on Instagram
Exciting news as we release our 2026 dates 👇🏼
Mark the calendars for a road trip to the country side where breath taking gardens, fresh clean air, curated shopping and Eastern Cape hospitality await. 🍃
Exciting news as we release our 2026 dates 👇🏼
Mark the calendars for a road trip to the country side where breath taking gardens, fresh clean air, curated shopping and Eastern Cape hospitality await. 🍃
As the Bedford Country Gardens Festival draws to a close, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us over the past two weekends. Your enthusiasm, support, and love for gardens and community made this year’s festival truly special.
From the gardeners who opened their gates, to the visitors who travelled near and far, and all the local businesses, artists, and volunteers who brought Hope Street and De Oude Fabreeck - we couldn’t have done it without you.
We hope you leave inspired, refreshed, and with memories that will keep blooming until we meet again next year.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
As the Bedford Country Gardens Festival draws to a close, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us over the past two weekends. Your enthusiasm, support, and love for gardens and community made this year’s festival truly special.
From the gardeners who opened their gates, to the visitors who travelled near and far, and all the local businesses, artists, and volunteers who brought Hope Street and De Oude Fabreeck - we couldn’t have done it without you.
We hope you leave inspired, refreshed, and with memories that will keep blooming until we meet again next year.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
It’s the final day of the Bedford Country Gardens Festival - your last chance to soak up the colour, creativity and countryside charm that has filled our village with joy these past two weekends.
Explore the open gardens one more time, enjoy a delicious bite from our local cafés, and take home a little piece of Bedford with you.
A heartfelt thank you to all our gardeners, volunteers, sponsors and visitors who’ve made this year’s festival such a success. We can’t wait to welcome you back again next year.
#bedfordcountrygardens
It’s the final day of the Bedford Country Gardens Festival - your last chance to soak up the colour, creativity and countryside charm that has filled our village with joy these past two weekends.
Explore the open gardens one more time, enjoy a delicious bite from our local cafés, and take home a little piece of Bedford with you.
A heartfelt thank you to all our gardeners, volunteers, sponsors and visitors who’ve made this year’s festival such a success. We can’t wait to welcome you back again next year.
#bedfordcountrygardens
Floradella, the floral haven created by Adele Taljard, celebrates the beauty of Bedford Country Gardens.
Wander through beds bursting with colour, pick up fresh flower bunches, locally harvested seeds, and beautiful flower products and plants. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with eats and drinks available, surrounded by the charm and creativity that make Floradella a popular stop.
Bedford Country Gardens 2025
Friday, Saturday & Sunday | 7–9 November
Entrance R20
082 780 4711
For the final weekend, Floradella will also be open on Sunday — don’t miss it!
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethu
Floradella, the floral haven created by Adele Taljard, celebrates the beauty of Bedford Country Gardens.
Wander through beds bursting with colour, pick up fresh flower bunches, locally harvested seeds, and beautiful flower products and plants. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with eats and drinks available, surrounded by the charm and creativity that make Floradella a popular stop.
Bedford Country Gardens 2025
Friday, Saturday & Sunday | 7–9 November
Entrance R20
082 780 4711
For the final weekend, Floradella will also be open on Sunday — don’t miss it!
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethu
Join us at The Duke of Bedford Hotel on Friday, 7 November at 6pm for a special Rosarium Cocktail Party. Our Celebrity guests are Rozanne and Simon Barlow sharing, The Story of Rustenberg Homestead and Gardens.
Discover the fascinating history of Schoongezicht Garden, situated beside the 1814 Cape Dutch homestead at Rustenberg Estate. Under Rozanne Barlow’s vision, this one-hectare garden has been lovingly restored-complete with a Chartres-style labyrinth, a tranquil lily pond that once was a swimming pool, and an elegant pergola built in the 1890s by John X Merriman.
Laid out in a formal design softened by English-style planting, the garden brims with roses, foxgloves, salvias, agapanthus and more. This garden is a plants lover’s dream framed by vineyards, green pastures and the Simonsberg mountain.
Event details:
The Duke of Bedford Hotel
Friday, 7 November | 6PM
R100 per person – includes a welcome drink and snacks.
Cash bar available.
Tickets available on Quicket or from Kim (082 775 5178) or at the door. (we have options).
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
Join us at The Duke of Bedford Hotel on Friday, 7 November at 6pm for a special Rosarium Cocktail Party. Our Celebrity guests are Rozanne and Simon Barlow sharing, The Story of Rustenberg Homestead and Gardens.
Discover the fascinating history of Schoongezicht Garden, situated beside the 1814 Cape Dutch homestead at Rustenberg Estate. Under Rozanne Barlow’s vision, this one-hectare garden has been lovingly restored-complete with a Chartres-style labyrinth, a tranquil lily pond that once was a swimming pool, and an elegant pergola built in the 1890s by John X Merriman.
Laid out in a formal design softened by English-style planting, the garden brims with roses, foxgloves, salvias, agapanthus and more. This garden is a plants lover’s dream framed by vineyards, green pastures and the Simonsberg mountain.
Event details:
The Duke of Bedford Hotel
Friday, 7 November | 6PM
R100 per person – includes a welcome drink and snacks.
Cash bar available.
Tickets available on Quicket or from Kim (082 775 5178) or at the door. (we have options).
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub
Maasström is a striking, contemporary garden that combines structure, creativity and a love of the natural landscape. Bold plant groupings, interesting textures and thoughtful design make it a memorable stop on the Bedford Country Gardens route.
You’ll find water features, garden art and clever use of space that reflect both imagination and a strong sense of place. Maasström is a great example of how design and nature can work together beautifully.
#bedfordcountrygardens #opengardenssa #countrygardens
Maasström is a striking, contemporary garden that combines structure, creativity and a love of the natural landscape. Bold plant groupings, interesting textures and thoughtful design make it a memorable stop on the Bedford Country Gardens route.
You’ll find water features, garden art and clever use of space that reflect both imagination and a strong sense of place. Maasström is a great example of how design and nature can work together beautifully.
#bedfordcountrygardens #opengardenssa #countrygardens
The Rose Café at the Rosarium
Open Friday the 7th & Saturday the 8th November from 9 - 4 pm.
Our café offers a selection of local favourites and sweet treats:
• Beads & Bloom Clay Beads
• Bran & Pecan Rusks
• Breakfast Rusks
• Buttermilk Rusks
• Carrot Cake
• Cheesecake
• Date Balls
• Fudge
• Hand-Roasted Coffee Beans & Ground Coffee
• Homemade Jam
• Lemon Syrup
• Fresh Lemonade
• Pecan Nut Halves
• Scones
• Toasted Sandwiches
• Trail Mix Nuts
• Various Coffees & Iced Coffees
• Koekies (assorted biscuits)
• Wheat Bran Rusks
Take a break beneath the trees and enjoy a coffee, a slice of cake, and a taste of Bedford hospitality. Rosarium tours also available.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #sarosarium
The Rose Café at the Rosarium
Open Friday the 7th & Saturday the 8th November from 9 - 4 pm.
Our café offers a selection of local favourites and sweet treats:
• Beads & Bloom Clay Beads
• Bran & Pecan Rusks
• Breakfast Rusks
• Buttermilk Rusks
• Carrot Cake
• Cheesecake
• Date Balls
• Fudge
• Hand-Roasted Coffee Beans & Ground Coffee
• Homemade Jam
• Lemon Syrup
• Fresh Lemonade
• Pecan Nut Halves
• Scones
• Toasted Sandwiches
• Trail Mix Nuts
• Various Coffees & Iced Coffees
• Koekies (assorted biscuits)
• Wheat Bran Rusks
Take a break beneath the trees and enjoy a coffee, a slice of cake, and a taste of Bedford hospitality. Rosarium tours also available.
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #sarosarium
#opengardenssa
During the Bedford Country Gardens weekend, visitors can stroll on the rolling lawns and enjoy the Cavers Pop-Up Kitchen - a delicious farm-style offering in an idyllic setting.
On the menu:
Teas & filter coffee
Drop scones & crustless milktart
Ice-cold cooldrinks
Light lunches including quiches, venison pies, and baby spinach, pear & pecan salad
For those looking to unwind — the bar is open, serving cold beers, wine, and Cavers famous Gin & Tonics.
#bedfordcountrygardens #cavers #opengardens
#opengardenssa
During the Bedford Country Gardens weekend, visitors can stroll on the rolling lawns and enjoy the Cavers Pop-Up Kitchen - a delicious farm-style offering in an idyllic setting.
On the menu:
Teas & filter coffee
Drop scones & crustless milktart
Ice-cold cooldrinks
Light lunches including quiches, venison pies, and baby spinach, pear & pecan salad
For those looking to unwind — the bar is open, serving cold beers, wine, and Cavers famous Gin & Tonics.
#bedfordcountrygardens #cavers #opengardens
Celebrity Breakfast with Wicus Pretorius
It’s almost time for our Celebrity Breakfast at The Duke of Bedford! Join us this Saturday, 8 November 2025, for a morning in the company of Wicus Pretorius, Editor-in-Chief of Tuis/Home magazine.
Enjoy a delicious continental breakfast while hearing fresh insights and stories from one of South Africa’s most dynamic media personalities. You’ll leave feeling inspired and with a special gift to take home.
Bookings via Quicket:
Celebrity Breakfast with Wicus Pretorius Editor-in-Chief of Tuis/Home magazine
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #dukeofbedford #celebritybreakfast
Celebrity Breakfast with Wicus Pretorius
It’s almost time for our Celebrity Breakfast at The Duke of Bedford! Join us this Saturday, 8 November 2025, for a morning in the company of Wicus Pretorius, Editor-in-Chief of Tuis/Home magazine.
Enjoy a delicious continental breakfast while hearing fresh insights and stories from one of South Africa’s most dynamic media personalities. You’ll leave feeling inspired and with a special gift to take home.
Bookings via Quicket:
Celebrity Breakfast with Wicus Pretorius Editor-in-Chief of Tuis/Home magazine
#bedfordcountrygardens #happeninginhopestreet #hopestreethub #dukeofbedford #celebritybreakfast
Dinner and Dining:
After a day exploring the gardens, unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of our local favourites. From farm-style feasts to wood-fired pizzas and elegant dining, there’s something for every taste.
Book your dinner in advance:
Apprentice Deli – Pizzas until 8pm
Bedford Club – Famous Steak Night on 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 dining
| 078 511 9689
#bedfordcountrygardens #dinnerdining
Dinner and Dining:
After a day exploring the gardens, unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of our local favourites. From farm-style feasts to wood-fired pizzas and elegant dining, there’s something for every taste.
Book your dinner in advance:
Apprentice Deli – Pizzas until 8pm
Bedford Club – Famous Steak Night on 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 dining
| 078 511 9689
#bedfordcountrygardens #dinnerdining
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