Property│Spotlight on St George’s Park
The 73ha gardens of the park itself are steeped in history and culture, a source of great pride for those who live in the area. St George’s Park hosted the first Test match played outside England or Australia in the 1888-89 season. It’s also the site of the oldest bowling green in the country.
The park, with its sprawling grounds and variety of plant species, is also home to the Mannville Open Air Theatre.
The Port Elizabeth Shakespearean Festival stages a production here every year. Another well-known spot in the park is the carefully restored Pearson Conservatory built in 1882.
The suburb, which draws big crowds for sporting events, is conveniently close to the city centre and within easy reach of several important Bay roads, such as Cape Road and Target Kloof Road. “It’s a highly sought-after area and very conveniently situated,” says resident Natalie Barber.
Fellow resident Leani Horne agrees: “it’s so central, making it easy to lock up and go. I love the space and the safety of it.”
Natalie and Leani have lived in the area for just under three years and enjoy the peace that the natural surroundings bring.
The area consists largely of apartments and sectional title homes, as well as several upmarket retirement facilities.
“Our house is fairly modern and in a quiet street. It’s been renovated in the last few years, so it’s a bit more current in style,” says Natalie.
For Leani, one of the area’s biggest advantages is its proximity to a good hospital.
“As a biokineticist who works long hours at St George’s Hospital, being nearby is a big plus,” she says
The circular park is a big attraction for walkers and runners and even has outdoor exercise facilities.
“The park is also very beautiful. I just wish we would have more events such as picnics, live music and festivals there,” Natalie says.
The area offers easy access to a number of attractions, such as fine galleries, the city’s art museum and quaint restaurants and cafes.
Property prices
This is flatland with 89% of the housing stock in apartment buildings and only 11% in houses. Median asking prices for a typical property such as a two-bedroomed flat are around R670000. Expect to pay around R6000 in monthly rental on a property like this.
Schools nearby
St George’s Preparatory School
Greenwood Primary School
Grey Junior School
Grey High School
Clarendon Park Primary School
Dine Out
Savages: for a delicious meal made with top-quality ingredients
Rhubarb and Lime Cafe: for all-day breakfasts
Natti’s Thai Kitchen: for delectable Thai food
Bridge Street Brewery: for tasty bistro fare
Friendly Stranger: for great coffee and brunch
Gunston’s Gastropub: for a delicious meal in a vibey atmosphere
Local attractions
St George’s Park
St George’s Cricket Ground
The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
GFI Art Gallery and ArtEC
The Donkin Heritage Trail
