Estcourt

Afrikaans name: Estcourt

Estcourt CBD

Photo © Steven Herbert

KwaZulu-Natal

The town of Estcourt is situated just off the N3 highway between Ladysmith and Mooi River. The town started at a crossing point on the Bushman's River. An inn and trading store were built initially but further development soon followed.

Although there is conflicting stories about how the town got its name it is believed to be named after Thomas Estcourt who sponsored English settlers in the 1800’s.

Estcourt is situated in the middle of a farming area and is known for its Eskort bacon factory. The town itself is dominated by the Nestle factory where coffee is produced.

A number of historic events have taken place in the area around Estcourt including the capture of Winston Churchill during the Anglo-Boer war.

One of the most interesting spots in Estcourt is Fort Durnford which is on a small hill at the eastern entrance to the town. It is well worth a visit. It has a good view over the town and the fort itself has been converted into a small museum.

Have you visited Estcourt? Tell us about your experience.

Weenen Game Reserve is situated approximately 30 km from Estcourt. Wagendrift Dam is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts.

Above - Estcourt civic buildings

Photo © Steven Herbert

References and further reading

The Pictorial Motoring Atlas of South Africa - Author: Maxwell Leigh - Published: 1987 - Page: 119

Readers Digest Illustrated Guide to Southern Africa - 4th edition - Author: - Published: 1986 - Page: 334

Southern Africa from the Highway - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1991 - Page: 75

On Route - Explore South Africa region by region - 3rd edition - Author: B.P.J. Erasmus - Published: 2014 - Page: 237

On Route - A region by region guide to South Africa - Author: B.P.J. Erasmus - Published: 1995 - Page: 136

Conollys Guide to Southern Africa - 2nd edition - Author: Denis Conolly - Published: 1982 - Page: 234

Book of the Road - 4th edition - Author: MapStudio - Published: 2019 - Page: 117

For more info: South Africa Online

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