This area is Port Elizabeth is rich in history and home to the iconic cricketing venue of the same name.
The small, charming suburb of St George’s Park is named after the oldest park in Port Elizabeth. The area is rich in history and is the site of the second-oldest cricket club in South Africa.
The 73ha gardens of the park itself are steeped in history and culture, a source of great pride for those who live in the area. St George’s Park hosted the first Test match played outside England or Australia in the 1888-89 season. It’s also the site of the oldest bowling green in the country.
The park, with its sprawling grounds and variety of plant species, is also home to the Mannville Open Air Theatre. The Port Elizabeth Shakespearean Festival stages a production here every year. Another well-known spot in the park is the carefully restored Pearson Conservatory built in 1882.
The suburb, which draws big crowds for sporting events, is conveniently close to the city centre and within easy reach of several important Bay roads, such as Cape Road and Target Kloof Road. “It’s a highly sought-after area and very conveniently situated,” says resident Natalie Barber.
Fellow resident Leani Horne agrees. “It’s so central, making it easy to lock up and go. I love the space and the safety of it.” Natalie and Leani have lived in the area for just under three years and enjoy the peace that the natural surroundings bring.
The area consists largely of apartments and sectional title homes, as well as several upmarket retirement facilities. “Our house is fairly modern and in a quiet street. It’s been renovated in the last few years, so it’s a bit more current in style,” says Natalie. For Leani, one of the area’s biggest advantages is its proximity to a good hospital. “As a biokineticist who works long hours at St George’s Hospital, being nearby is a big plus.”
The circular park is a big attraction for walkers and runners and even has outdoor exercise facilities. “The park is also very beautiful. I just wish we would have more events such as picnics, live music and festivals there,” Natalie says.
The area offers easy access to a number of attractions, such as fine galleries, the city’s art museum and quaint restaurants and cafes.
Having the hospital nearby and also being close to good schools is great.
-Natalie Barber, resident.
Schools near St Georges Park, PE:
- St George’s Preparatory School
- Greenwood Primary School
- Grey Junior School
- Grey High School
- Clarendon Park Primary School
Eating out in St Georges Park,PE:
- Savages: for a delicious meal made with top-quality ingredients
- Rhubarb and Lime Cafe: for all-day breakfasts
- Bridge Street Brewery: for tasty bistro fare
- Friendly Stranger: for great coffee and brunch
- Gunston’s Gastropub: for a delicious meal in a vibey atmosphere
- Natti’s Thai Kitchen: for delectable Thai food
Local attractions near St Georges Park:
- The park
- St George’s Cricket Ground
- The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
- GFI Art Gallery and ArtEC
- The Donkin Heritage Trail
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
