Naval Hill

Top choice


During the Anglo-Boer War, this was the site of the British naval-gun emplacements. There are good views from the top of the hill, which is also home to the Franklin Nature Reserve. Walking is permitted, and you may see ostriches, zebras and giraffes wandering about. Also on top is a planetarium, operated by the University of the Free State, and a gigantic statue of Nelson Mandela overlooking the city. Entry to Naval Hill is from Union Ave.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Franklin Nature Reserve

0.19 MILES

Atop Naval hill, the Franklin Nature Reserve is a great place for a walk or a short drive to spot zebras, antelope and giraffes.

2. Orchid House

0.32 MILES

This glasshouse has a beautiful, if small, collection of flowers and some dazzling orchids. The surrounding Hamilton Park is an ideal place to take the…

3. Oliewenhuis Art Museum

0.54 MILES

One of South Africa’s most striking art galleries, the Oliewenhuis Art Museum occupies an exquisite 1935 mansion set in beautiful gardens. An imaginative…

4. Twin-Towered Church

0.72 MILES

A Dutch Reformed church on Floreat Ave that serves as a good landmark for orientation.

5. National Museum

0.73 MILES

A great recreation of a 19th-century street, complete with sound effects, is the most interesting display at this museum. It also has a shop and a cafe.

6. Loch Logan Waterfront

1.04 MILES

Yes, Bloem has a Waterfront, modelled on Cape Town’s. Although it’s a bit tacky, Loch Logan Waterfront is more pleasant than a shopping mall. It’s outside…

8. National Women’s Memorial

2.56 MILES

Commemorating the 26,000 women and children who died in British concentration camps during the 1899–1902 Anglo-Boer War, the National Women’s Memorial…