Barkley West

Accommodation | Activities | Restaurants | Business Directory

Geography and History

Barkly West lies just off the N12, north west of Kimberley, in the Northern Cape province of South Africa.

The discovery of diamonds at Klipdrift on the Vaal River in 1869 drew thousands of prospectors. The area was renamed Barkly West in 1873 after becoming part of the Crown Colony of Griqualand West.Renowned writer Sarah Gertrude Millin grew up in the district. Her father opened and operated a shop in Barkly West. One of the first towns to be affected by the diamond rush, the district’s economy is driven by stock and irrigation farming and mining.

Activities

Places of interest in the area include: the Barkly Bridge, Cultural History Museum, St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Barkly West Museum and the Old Toll House. These attractions offer visitors a variety of architectural wonders and fascinating history to discover.

Surrounding the town, Canteen Kopje, Rekaofela Resort, Oribi Game Reserve and Vaalbos National Park showcase the beautiful fauna and flora of the region, including archeological sites.

Activities include hiking, canoeing and archery.

Barkly West is a charming town in the Northern Cape that is filled with beauty and a rich heritage that is reflected in its historical buildings and attractions.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Barkley West includes B&B’s, Guesthouses, Farm Stays, Camping and Self Cating. Many of the homes in the town have been lovingly restored and opened as guest houses and B&Bs.