THE OLD JAIL
Bed & Breakfast/ Guest House/ Guest Lodge Accommodation
in Willowmore, Western Region,
Eastern Cape, South Africa
The Old Jail in the peaceful farming town of Willowmore offers a unique
experience for tourists, business travelers and sports enthusiasts seeking
quality accommodation in the Karoo. Flanked by the spectacular Baviaanskloof and
Swartberg mountain ranges, this striking 1880s building is on the edge of the
town and is one of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in the area.
Registered by the Government in 1895, the building is built of stone, the walls
being half a metre thick with plaster "quions" (corners) on the windows, doors
and wall corners. The Old Gaol, as it was then called, comprised a hospital
cell, hard labour cells, awaiting trial cells, a female cell and kitchen cell.
It ceased to operate as a prison and police station around 1960 and was sold to
private owners. It has changed hands several times in the past 40 years and
remained uninhabited for almost 12 years until its present owners took posession
and began transforming it into a boutique guest establishment.
Now lovingly restored and renovated, the building is surrounded by attractive
landscaped gardens. Although oozing character and retaining many original
features, it has now been given a new - and less intimidating - lease of life as
a welcoming B&B and art gallery.
The cells and exercise areas have been cleverly converted into three elegant,
air conditioned rooms with modern amenities, high quality period finishes and
private courtyards.
Whether you're looking for an overnight stay along the N9 highway or a few days'
hiking, cycling, golfing, small game hunting or relaxing in peaceful, unspoiled
surroundings, The Old Jail is a place you won't want to escape from in a hurry.
.... on special request wellness treatment.... and
braai facilities........
The Accommodation
All rooms are fully air conditioned with high ceilings, original features,
quality bedlinen, brass bathroom fittings, original artworks and tea/coffee
making facilities. Each has a private, lawned courtyard with sun loungers and
parasols.
Hospital Suite
Originally housing sick inmates, the suite offers a spacious bedroom featuring a
king size bed, original Victorian fireplace and antique wardrobe, plus an
elegant ensuite bathroom with claw foot bath, separate shower, toilet and
underfloor heating in winter.
The Women's Room
Once used exclusively for female inmates, this is a characterful double room
with its private bath/shower room (with unique stone bath) and separate toilet
just a few steps away across its secluded, lawned courtyard.
The Remand Room
As the name suggests, this was the cell used for prisoners awaiting trial. It
now features twin beds and also has a separate Victorian-style shower room and
toilet off a private courtyard.
Contact Us
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See next to main photo for alternative contact details.
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