The Historic Pig & Whistle Inn, Bathurst, Eastern Cape
With a history of providing travellers with friendly hospitality, delicious eats and comfortable accommodation, it’s no wonder The Historic Pig & Whistle Inn has been booming for more than 180 years.
Situated in the village of Bathurst, the Pig & Whistle Inn is the cornerstone attraction of this quaint and quirky town.
Pig & Whistle Inn was established in 1832 by British settler, Thomas Hartley. Originally, it was known as the Bathurst Inn. That changed years later when a Royal Air force unit, which was stationed nearby, decided to name the Inn’s pub after their favourite pub in Britain.
The Inn is a heritage site and home to the oldest continuously licensed pub in South Africa. Its ideal location makes it the perfect base for exploring Bathurst and nearby Port Alfred, which is just a 15-minute drive away!
Accommodation at Pig & Whistle Inn
There are ten rooms to choose from at the Pig & Whistle Inn, each one lovingly restored and furnished with antiques to give it a historic English feel. You will find that they have modern bedding to ensure total comfort during your stay.
Four of the rooms have en-suite bathrooms while the other six, the original rooms that were built in 1830, have shared bathroom facilities. For those who want to experience the history of the Inn, they can stay in rooms five or six, which were the original bedrooms of the owners, who built the Inn.
Rooms are equipped with double or two single beds fitted with fresh percale linen, a ceiling fan and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Facilities at Pig & Whistle Inn
Apart from its historic rooms, the Pig & Whistle Inn is famous for its pub and restaurant. Its authentic 1820’s feel, makes it a favourite spot for the locals and popular stop-over for travellers in the Eastern Cape.
The pub has a warm and companionable atmosphere and has memorabilia decorating the walls that tell the story of the pubs long and proud history. The old fireplace keeps the pub warm while you watch local and international sport on satellite TV.
Keeping with its English traditions, the restaurant serves a traditional Sunday roasts and classic pub food, as well as vegetarian and Mediterranean meals. Signature dishes such as pot pies and freshly baked cakes and desserts are also on the menu.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Inn and an outdoor swimming pool offers guests the perfect way to cool down during a hot summer day.
What do people say about Pig & Whistle Inn
The Historic Pig & Whistle Inn is considered the number one Inn in the Bathurst area and has received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.
“We had the pleasure of spending a night here, while on a road trip from KZN South Coast to Cape Town. It was absolutely charming!!!!!!We have recommended it to all our friends and family as everyone needs to experience this wonderful gem in Bathurst.” – Escape TripAdvisor.
“We stopped off here for a night while on a road trip from Pietermaritzburg to Cape Town – and loved every minute. The hotel is very historic and has been restored with love and care. The dinner was really good – we sat out on the veranda chatting to locals – and the breakfast the best we’ve had for a long time. We met such interesting people and heard fascinating tales. There’s a lot going on heritage-wise in this little town and knowledgeable people who would be happy to help you. Well worth a visit. Everyone we met was so friendly. Nice old pub.” – Trigger TripAdvisor.
“We had a lovely visit to this historic venue recently. We arrived at lunchtime and enjoyed a really great meal in the restaurant. The staff are friendly and the food was excellent. The drinks were very reasonably priced.” – Traveller TripAdvisor.
Top reasons for staying at The Historic Pig & Whistle Inn:
- The Pig & Whistle Inn has a long history and exudes a classic atmosphere.
- The pub has a vibrant and friendly atmosphere.
- Food served is delicious and hearty.
- The owners and staff of the Pig & Whistle Inn are helpful and friendly.
- The rooms are classically decorated and neat and spacious.
To make a booking at The Historic Pig & Whistle Inn, give them a call on 046 625 0673 or email stay@pigandwhistle.co.za. Visit their website at www.pigandwhistle.co.za. Find them at 268 Kowie Rd, Bathurst, 6170.
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