Prince Alfred's Guard Museum
Explore the rich military heritage of the Eastern Cape at this historic building, formerly Prince Alfred's Guard, now Chief Maqoma Regiment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pub opens, unique atmosphere
Prince Alfred's Guard Museum
Best Time
Pub opens, unique atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the rich military heritage of the Eastern Cape at this historic building, formerly Prince Alfred's Guard, now Chief Maqoma Regiment.
"An immense amount of history, embedded in this historical building."
Pub Hours Alert! 🍻
The on-site pub is a unique spot but only opens Thursday afternoons at 5 PM. Don't miss it if you're there then!
Learn Soldier Stories 📜
This museum is a great place to learn about the soldiers and guards who served here. Immerse yourself in their history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chief Maqoma Regiment History
Explore the rich military heritage of the Eastern Cape and the legacy of the Prince Alfred's Guard.
Historic Military Headquarters
Step back in time within this beautifully preserved old army barracks and former military HQ.
The 'Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense' Legacy
Discover the significance of the former motto, shared with the Order of the Garter, and its historical context.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Understand the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pub Hours Alert! 🍻
The on-site pub is a unique spot but only opens Thursday afternoons at 5 PM. Don't miss it if you're there then!
Learn Soldier Stories 📜
This museum is a great place to learn about the soldiers and guards who served here. Immerse yourself in their history.
Appreciate the Architecture 🏛️
The building itself is a piece of history, a former military headquarters with a beautiful setting. Take time to admire it.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pub Hours Alert! 🍻
The on-site pub is a unique spot but only opens Thursday afternoons at 5 PM. Don't miss it if you're there then!
Learn Soldier Stories 📜
This museum is a great place to learn about the soldiers and guards who served here. Immerse yourself in their history.
Appreciate the Architecture 🏛️
The building itself is a piece of history, a former military headquarters with a beautiful setting. Take time to admire it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the immense historical significance of the building, recognizing it as a beautifully preserved old military headquarters and a place to learn about the Eastern Cape's military past. The unique aspect of the pub, despite its limited hours, is also noted. However, some reviews suggest the facility could benefit from updates and replenishment.
"An immense amount of history, embedded in this historical building. Previously known as Prince Alfred's Guard, but renamed as Chief Maqoma Regiment. Previous motto was "Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense" meaning "shame on him who thinks evil of it", also the motto of the Order of the Garter."
Werner
"Beautifull setting old military head quarters. Nice pub but tragically opens only on Thursday afternoon at 5pm. Rest of the week closed"
Gerard Smal
"It was good place to visit , you learn more about the soldiers or guards there."
Sunday Mthombeni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Information on public transport or driving directions to the museum is limited. It's advisable to use a GPS or ride-sharing service to navigate to the Chief Maqoma Regiment, its current designation.
Parking availability is not explicitly mentioned, but given its historical nature, street parking or nearby lots might be options. It's best to check locally upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum's operating hours are not consistently published. However, reviews indicate the attached pub is only open on Thursday afternoons from 5 PM. It's recommended to verify museum hours before visiting.
Admission fees are not specified in available information. It's possible that entry is free or by donation, but it's wise to prepare for a potential small charge.
Advance ticket booking is unlikely to be necessary or available given the limited information. Visits are generally on a walk-in basis, especially for the pub.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can learn about the Eastern Cape's military past, the history of the Prince Alfred's Guard (now Chief Maqoma Regiment), and explore the historic building which served as army barracks and headquarters.
The museum offers historical insights that might be educational for older children interested in military history. However, specific child-friendly exhibits are not detailed.
This Latin phrase translates to 'shame on him who thinks evil of it' and was the motto of the Prince Alfred's Guard, also famously the motto of the Order of the Garter.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a pub located at the museum. However, it has very limited opening hours, only serving on Thursday afternoons from 5 PM.
Specific menu details for the pub are not available. It's likely to offer typical pub fare, but it's best to check locally or manage expectations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies are not explicitly stated. It's generally advisable to be respectful of historical artifacts and ask for permission if unsure.
The exterior of the historic military headquarters building offers a picturesque backdrop. Inside, any displays related to military history might be of interest for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs
Consider timing your visit for a Thursday afternoon to experience the unique pub atmosphere. This offers a chance to reflect on the history you've absorbed in a relaxed, albeit limited, social setting. Be prepared for a place rich in history but perhaps in need of some modern touches, as suggested by some visitor feedback.
Day-Trippers
Be mindful of the pub's very specific hours (Thursdays from 5 PM) – it's not a reliable spot for a casual lunch or drink unless you're there at the right time. Focus on the historical aspects of the museum for a fulfilling day-trip experience, appreciating the stories of the soldiers and guards.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Military History
The museum proudly displays its heritage, including its former motto, "Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense," a phrase shared with the esteemed Order of the Garter. This connection highlights the historical significance and prestige associated with the regiment. While the museum offers a deep dive into military history, some reviews suggest the facility could benefit from updates and replenishment, indicating a potential for a more modern visitor experience.
For those interested in military history, the museum provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past. It's a place where the Eastern Cape's military narrative is brought back to life, offering a tangible link to the soldiers who once walked its halls.
The Unique Pub Experience
Visiting the pub on a Thursday evening provides a chance to experience the historic setting in a different light. It's an opportunity to perhaps mingle with locals or fellow history enthusiasts in a relaxed environment. While specific details about the menu are scarce, the appeal lies more in the novelty of enjoying a drink within such a historically rich location.
If your visit coincides with a Thursday, planning to stop by the pub after exploring the museum could be a memorable part of your experience. It offers a blend of historical ambiance and social gathering, albeit on a very specific schedule.
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