We know where you can find a time portal to the Victorian era, and it's here in our very own city! The Lindfield House Victorian Museum in Auckland Park will take you back in time to the days of a bygone era that we never thought we'd experience for ourselves. It's one of the most interesting tours in the city and is a must if you love brushing up on a little history.
Lindfield Victorian House Museum: A Hidden Gem
Lindfield House has to be one of Joburg’s best-kept secrets and a must-visit if you're looking to do a little time travelling! Ever wondered what it would be like to live like those classy ladies back in the Victorian era? Well, who could possibly imagine that an authentic Victorian House exists right underneath our noses, not to mention the world’s best tour guide? It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!
A Time Capsule Of Times Passed
The Lindfield House Victorian Museum is fascinating and captivating from start to finish. It will intrigue guests of all ages. This hidden gem is located just a few blocks from the SABC building in Auckland Park (near UJ). The stunning Herbert Baker house has been lovingly restored and beautifully decorated by owner, Katharine Love, who lives in this treasure trove of Victoriana.
What To Expect At Lindfield
From the moment you step inside the front door and are greeted by Katharine dressed as a Victorian parlour maid, you're immediately swept back into the past. When men visited with calling cards. Women squeezed themselves into corsets. Rand servants slept in the kitchen on a fold out bed with a rifle, guarding the family's silver in the pantry! Goodness, how things have changed!
One of my favourite parts of the house is the children’s nursery, with the most amazing doll’s house. Also, there's a rather odd museum room where the children collected items from their travels and various other odd creatures preserved in formaldehyde. And also the school room, where the children would do their schoolwork with a nanny and eat their meals.
The library is also quite phenomenal, as is the bedroom. Also, there is a feature where the man of the house has a separate room leading outside, so he could pop in and out at will!
And as if the tour of this 'time capsule' isn't amazing enough, the tea is the cherry on top! You'll get to enjoy delicious sausage rolls, fluffy scones with jam and cream, and scrumptious cake. Booking is essential when you decide to visit the Lindfield Victorian House Museum, so make sure you make an appointment soon!
This experience is highly recommended for those who are looking for something personal and unique.
Admission costs
- Tours are generally limited to 12 visitors per group.
- R100 per person, tour only.
- R50 per children or senior citizens, tea and cake included.
- Gift Vouchers are available.
- No debit / credit card facilities available.
- The museum is open between 10:00 and 17:00 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.
- Free access to their Sunday Market Days, where tea and scones will be available. Contact them for more details about the Market days.
Specialised Tours
Book an intimate behind-the-scenes, specialised tour of the Lindfield Victorian House Museum. Katharine will take you on a private tour, sharing stories and information not included on regular tours and allowing you to explore areas or objects that are not open to the general public. Available by prior appointment only.
For More Information
For more information about this historic gem, visit www.lindfield.wixsite.com.
You can also call them on 011 726 2932 or SMS on 083 589 8668. You can alternatively email [email protected].
Don't forget to check them out on Facebook.
Address: 72 Richmond Avenue, Auckland Park, Johannesburg.
Pictures by the Lindfield House Victorian Museum.
