Exploring King's Blockhouse: A Glimpse into History

Discover the historical significance and stunning views at King's Blockhouse, a premier hiking destination in Cape Town's Table Mountain National Park.

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King's Blockhouse

Nestled on the slopes of Devil's Peak in Cape Town, King's Blockhouse is a historical gem that offers breathtaking views and a rich narrative steeped in the region's military past. This iconic monument serves as a reminder of the Anglo-Zulu War and the strategic importance of the area. Tourists can enjoy a scenic hike to reach this landmark, where history and nature intertwine, providing both an educational experience and stunning vistas of Table Mountain and the Cape Town skyline.

A brief summary to King's Blockhouse

Devil's Peak, Cape Town, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve), ZA

Local tips

Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy tranquil views.
Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and the blockhouse itself.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep and rocky.
Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the blockhouse.
Check the weather forecast before your visit; it can change quickly in the mountains.

Getting There

Public Transport

Start at the Cape Town City Centre. Head to the nearest MyCiTi bus station, which is usually at the Civic Centre. Take the MyCiTi bus route 1 or 101 towards Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. The journey takes about 20 minutes. Get off at the 'Table Mountain Aerial Cableway' stop.
Walking

Once you arrive at the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway stop, exit the bus and walk towards the entrance of the cableway station. From there, follow the signs for the hiking trails leading to Devil's Peak. The trailhead for King's Blockhouse is located near the entrance to the cableway area. The hike to King's Blockhouse will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your fitness level.
Hiking

As you hike up, follow the well-marked paths towards the top of Devil's Peak. The trail is moderately steep, and you will have beautiful views of Cape Town along the way. Keep an eye out for signage indicating the direction to King's Blockhouse. Once you reach the blockhouse, you will see the historical structure and can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Return Trip

To return to Cape Town, retrace your steps back down the trail to the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. From there, take the MyCiTi bus back to the Civic Centre. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the return trip.

Discover more about King's Blockhouse

King's Blockhouse, situated on the picturesque slopes of Devil's Peak in the Table Mountain National Park, is a remarkable historical site that invites visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of South Africa's military history. Built in the late 19th century during the Second Anglo-Boer War, this blockhouse served as a strategic lookout point, designed to protect the city of Cape Town from potential attacks. Today, it stands as a monument to the past, offering an engaging glimpse into the region's storied heritage. The journey to King's Blockhouse is just as captivating as the destination itself. Adventurous tourists can embark on a scenic hike through the lush trails of Devil's Peak, where the natural beauty of the Cape flora and fauna surrounds them. The trek is moderately challenging, making it an ideal activity for hiking enthusiasts and casual walkers alike. As you ascend, be sure to take in the panoramic views that unfold, showcasing the majestic Table Mountain and the sprawling cityscape below. Upon reaching the blockhouse, visitors are greeted by the rugged charm of the structure, which remains a testament to the resilience of its era. The site offers informative displays that detail its historical significance and the context of its construction. Additionally, the surrounding area is perfect for capturing stunning photographs, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape. King's Blockhouse is not just a hike; it's an exploration of history, nature, and breathtaking vistas that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

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Exploring King's Blockhouse: A Glimpse into History

A brief summary to King's Blockhouse

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Hiking

Return Trip

Unlock the Best of King's Blockhouse

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about King's Blockhouse

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Woodstock Cave

Mostert's Mill

Newlands Forest Picnic Area

Newlands Forest Trail Bench

Cape Town Heritage Tours

Newlands Forest - ERF49371

Winelands Business Park

Table Mountain Road Viewing Bench

District Six

Van Riebeeck Park Hiking Trail

Atlantic Rail

The Original Shoreline

Parliament of the Republic of South Africa

Oude Molen Eco Village

Rovos Rail Cape Town

Unmissable attractions to see

Mowbray Ridge

Rhodes Memorial

Devil’s Peak

Queen's Blockhouse

Heart of Cape Town Museum

Woodcutters Trail

Waterfall and Dam on Table Mointain

Pulpit Rock

Dark Gorge

Contour Path Picnic Area (Carousel)

Cape Town Science Centre

Saddle Rock

Vredehoek Quarry

Newlands Saddle

Tafelberg Rd

Essential places to dine

A Touch of Madness Restaurant

Pahari African Restaurant

Chef Jordan Nel

Reverie Social Table

The Pot Luck Club

The Wild Fig Restaurant

The Happy Uncles

Belly of the beast

The Dog's Bollocks at YARD

Lookout Deck Restaurant and Bar

Aubergine Restaurant

The Cousins Trattoria

Fyn Restaurant

Eighty-Ate Restaurant

Haiku Cape Town CBD (Closed temporarily for renovations until Summer)

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Montebello Design Centre

vanilla rose

CollectMeaStory

Concept Store

Quirky.Me

Karoo Moon Country

The Old Biscuit Mill

Lime Grove

Best Bargains

Tallulah's

Fabricate

Afraid Of mice

Send a Surprise

Sitting Pretty

Cavendish Square

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

58 On Lower Main Aka Biker Bar

Foresters Arms