Mostert's Mill
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Mostert's Mill

4.4
·130 reviews·Cape Town, South Africa

Africa's oldest working windmill, meticulously restored after a wildfire, offering tours and fresh flour sales.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

3rd Saturday of the month

Mill is operational & open

CrowdMedium
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Mostert's Mill

Mostert's Mill

Best Time

3rd Saturday of the month

Mill is operational & open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Africa's oldest working windmill, meticulously restored after a wildfire, offering tours and fresh flour sales.

4.4
(130 reviews)

"An engineering masterpiece, passionately restored. The oldest working windmill in South Africa."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Open Days

Visit on the 3rd Saturday of the month for operational tours & flour sales.

💰 Affordable Entry

Annual tickets are R50, family tickets R100. Great value for heritage!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Working Windmill

The Working Windmill

Newlands, Cape Town

Witness Africa's only working windmill grind wheat into flour using the power of the wind. A true engineering marvel.

Freshly Milled Flour

Freshly Milled Flour

At the mill on open days

Purchase bags of fresh, stoneground wholemeal flour, milled on-site. Perfect for baking at home.

Restoration Story

Restoration Story

Visitor center/guides

Learn about the mill's near-destruction in a 2021 wildfire and its inspiring, community-led restoration.

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Planning Your Visit

Visit on Open Days

Mostert's Mill is typically open to the public on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Arrive early, especially if you want to purchase fresh flour or bread, as these can sell out quickly. Check their official channels for exact dates and times before your visit.

Understand Its History

This historic windmill, built in 1796, is the oldest surviving complete windmill in South Africa. It was tragically destroyed by a wildfire in 2021 but has since been meticulously restored by dedicated volunteers. Appreciating its resilience adds depth to your visit.

Best Times

When
3rd Saturday of the month
Why
Mill is operational & open
Crowd
Medium
When
Morning
Why
Best chance for fresh flour/bread
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mostert's Mill - we are proud to be a part of this historic rebuild. Watch this SPACE! Help us rebuild Mostert's Mill, scan and donate. #importing #exporting #mostersmill #donate #makinghistory
importexportexperts
8 likes • 100 views

🎯 Check Open Days

Visit on the 3rd Saturday of the month for operational tours & flour sales. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry

Annual tickets are R50, family tickets R100. Great value for heritage! Reddit

Such fun at Mostert's Mill.It was built in 1796 and is the oldest surviving complete windmill in South Africa. It was almost completely destroyed by a wildfire on 18 April 2021 but was fully restored by April 2024 and is once more operational and used to grind wheat into whole meal, using the power of the wind #mill
missmillieandchichi
16 likes • 151 views
A render of Mosterts Mill in Newlands with help from a 3D scan by @globaldigitalheritage and the fine people who give so much of their time and energy to restore her and care for her. @friendsofmostertsmill #capeheritage #blender3d #blender #windmill #tablemountain #rendering #capeheritageconstructiongroup
mullerbilt3d
11 likes • 96 views

🍞 Buy Freshly Milled

If the wind is right, buy stoneground flour or even sourdough bread made from it. Reddit

🤝 Support Restoration

Donations help maintain this historic site. Every bit counts! TikTok

Devastating drone footage of Cape Town’s recent fires. Part 3/7 ( UCT Library Fire // Mostert's Mill / Table Mountain ) #capetownfire #uctfire #uctlibraryfire #MostertsMillonfire #capetownonfire #tablemountainfire #uctonfire #southafrica #capetownfires2021 #uctfires #uctfire2021 #uctfireresponse #carteblance #etv #capetownmag #capetownetc #tablemountainfire2021 #lookscoolletsgo #djisouthafrica...
lookscoolletsgo
68 likes • 590 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Open Days

Visit on the 3rd Saturday of the month for operational tours & flour sales. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry

Annual tickets are R50, family tickets R100. Great value for heritage! Reddit

🍞 Buy Freshly Milled

If the wind is right, buy stoneground flour or even sourdough bread made from it. Reddit

🤝 Support Restoration

Donations help maintain this historic site. Every bit counts! TikTok

🌬️ Wind is Key

The mill only operates if there's enough wind. Check conditions! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(130 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Mostert's Mill being Africa's only working windmill and a beautifully restored piece of heritage. The passionate volunteer guides and the opportunity to buy fresh, stoneground flour are consistently highlighted as major draws. While the limited open days can be a drawback, the affordable entry and unique experience make it a highly recommended visit for history and baking enthusiasts alike.

"Working Windmill Accessible to the Public on Open Days!

Africa's only working windmill is a hidden gem in Cape town. The Friends of the Mostert's Mill, a Non-Profit, run by the extremely knowledgeable experts who restored the mill, will give you an in-depth tour and explanation of how the mall works and how it was restored. Look out for the mascot of the mill, Jamie, the Scottie, on the break arm! Open days are hosted on the 3rd Saturday of every month."

Jonti Oehley

"An engineering masterpiece, passionately restored. 🌾🍞 The oldest working windmill in South Africa. Open every third Saturday of the month. R50 = annual entrance ticket, R100 for a family ticket.

10am-14pm

If the wind blows, chances are good that you can buy fresh stoneground meal, milled on the day.

(Wholegrain, containing the wheatgerm, the good stuff.)

If you’re lucky you can even buy freshly baked artisan sourdough bread made from the meal and baked with love by Hout Bay based Mount Elsewhere Bakery."

Yolandi S

"I had the privilege of attending the official opening on 20 April 2024 of the rebuilt and restored Mostert’s Mill after it was destroyed by a fire in April 2021. It was a humbling experience to observe a touching, yet delightful ceremony led by the Friends of Mostert’s Mill committee, the driving force behind the restoration project. Well done to the committee and all those who contributed to enable this part of South Africa’s heritage to literally rise from the ashes! You made us grateful and proud!"

Johan du Preez

What People Like

Oldest working windmill
Passionate volunteer guides
Freshly milled flour

What People Dislike

Limited open days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mostert's Mill is located in Newlands, Cape Town. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options like MyCiTi buses or trains can also get you close to the Newlands area, followed by a short walk. Reddit

While it's a historic landmark, it's nestled within a residential area. Using GPS or a mapping app is recommended. Look for signs directing you to the mill on open days. Reddit

Driving is convenient, but consider ride-sharing or public transport if you're concerned about parking. The walk from the nearest transport hubs is generally pleasant. Reddit

Mostert's Mill is close to the University of Cape Town (UCT) and Rhodes Memorial, though be mindful of the fire impact on these areas. The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are also a relatively short drive away. Instagram

No, Mostert's Mill is typically only open to the public on the 3rd Saturday of each month. It's crucial to confirm the exact dates and times beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry is very affordable. An annual entrance ticket costs R50, and a family ticket is R100. This provides great value for experiencing a piece of history. Reddit

Tickets are usually purchased on-site on the open days. It's advisable to arrive early, especially if you wish to purchase fresh flour or bread, as they can sell out. Reddit

On open days (the 3rd Saturday of the month), the mill is generally open from 10 am to 2 pm. Always check their official communication for the most current hours. Reddit

The R100 family ticket is a good option for families. Specific concessions for children or seniors aren't always detailed, but the overall pricing is very reasonable. Reddit

If there isn't enough wind, the mill won't be operational for grinding. However, you can still visit, learn about its history, and support the Friends of Mostert's Mill. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see the oldest working windmill in South Africa in operation, learn about its history and restoration from knowledgeable guides, and purchase freshly milled flour. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Friends of Mostert's Mill, a dedicated group of volunteers, offer in-depth tours explaining how the mill works and its restoration journey. They are passionate and informative. Reddit

Absolutely! If the wind is blowing, you can buy fresh stoneground flour milled on-site. Sometimes, artisan sourdough bread made with this flour is also available. InstagramReddit

While the mill itself is a historic structure, efforts are made to make the grounds accessible. Inquire with the Friends of Mostert's Mill for specific accessibility details. Reddit

Mostert's Mill was tragically destroyed in the devastating Cape Town wildfires of April 2021. Its subsequent restoration is a testament to community effort and heritage preservation. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic windmill against the backdrop of the Cape Town landscape. The intricate details of the mill's machinery and the surrounding greenery offer great shots. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in heritage sites and areas prone to fires. It's best to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful golden hour shots of the mill. However, the mill is only open on specific days, so timing is dictated by operational hours. Instagram

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the entire mill and its surroundings. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the Friends of Mostert's Mill beforehand. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mostert's Mill offers a fantastic educational outing for families. Children can witness a real working windmill, a rare sight these days, and learn about where their food comes from. The passionate guides make the history engaging and accessible for younger minds. Reddit

Tips for families: Arrive early on open days to ensure you can purchase fresh flour or bread. The site is generally accessible for strollers, but inquire about specific pathways. It's a great opportunity to spark curiosity about history, engineering, and nature's power. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Mostert's Mill is an absolute gem for budget-conscious travelers. With an annual entrance fee of just R50 or a family ticket for R100, it's one of the most affordable historical attractions in Cape Town. Reddit

Beyond the low entry cost, you can bring your own snacks and enjoy a picnic in the vicinity. Purchasing a bag of freshly milled flour is also a very economical way to take a piece of local heritage home with you. It's a highly recommended, value-packed experience. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Mostert's Mill is a must-visit. As the oldest surviving complete windmill in South Africa, it offers a direct connection to the country's colonial past and agricultural development. The detailed restoration story adds another layer of historical intrigue. TikTok

Engage with the knowledgeable volunteers from the 'Friends of Mostert's Mill' to gain deep insights into the mill's construction, operation, and its survival against the odds. The recent restoration after the 2021 fire is a modern chapter in its long and storied history. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Resilience of Mostert's Mill

Mostert's Mill stands as a powerful symbol of resilience in Cape Town. Built in 1796, it is the oldest surviving complete windmill in South Africa, a testament to early colonial engineering. For centuries, it has been a working mill, grinding wheat and serving the community. Its historical significance is immense, representing a tangible link to the region's agricultural past. TikTok

Tragically, in April 2021, the mill was almost completely destroyed by a devastating wildfire that swept through the area. The sight of the burning mill was heartbreaking for many Capetonians. However, the spirit of the community shone through. The 'Friends of Mostert's Mill,' a dedicated group of volunteers, rallied together with incredible passion and determination to rebuild their beloved landmark. Instagram+1

Through tireless fundraising, skilled craftsmanship, and sheer dedication, the mill was meticulously restored and became operational again by April 2024. This remarkable feat of heritage preservation ensures that this vital piece of South African history continues to stand, a beacon of hope and a reminder of what can be achieved when a community unites for a common cause. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing the Mill on Open Days

Visiting Mostert's Mill on its designated open days is a unique and rewarding experience. The mill is typically open to the public on the third Saturday of every month. This is when you can witness the mill in action, powered by the wind, grinding wheat into fresh, stoneground flour. Reddit

The 'Friends of Mostert's Mill' are passionate volunteers who run these open days. They offer incredibly informative and engaging tours, sharing the mill's history, its restoration journey, and the mechanics of how it operates. Their knowledge and enthusiasm make the visit truly special. You might even meet Jamie, the Scottie dog mascot, on the break arm! Reddit

Beyond the tours, you have the opportunity to purchase the freshly milled flour, which is highly sought after for its quality and wholesome goodness. On occasion, artisan sourdough bread made from this flour is also available, offering a delicious taste of local heritage. The R50 annual ticket or R100 family ticket makes this an incredibly accessible and valuable experience. InstagramReddit

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