Camps Bay History

Camps Bay’s history begins with Mr. Fredrick Ernst Von Kamptz, after whom the area was named, who resided on the farm “Ravensteyn” during the 1700s. Camps Bay is surely one of the most beautiful bays in the world today – nestled between the mountain range of Lions Head, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles and overlooking the endless vista of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. The most easily identifiable landmark in Camps Bay is the Rotunda, which forms part of The Bay Hotel, situated on the beachfront. The Rotunda was built in 1904 and was used for dancing, roller skating, silent movie shows, boxing and other sporting events.Another famous landmark is the Round House situated in the beautiful forested Glen area bordering Clifton, which was used as a hunting lodge by Lord Charles Somerset in the 1800’s. Thomas Bain was commissioned to build a road from Sea Point to Camps Bay, using convict labourers. This road was completed in 1887 and was named Victoria Road in honour of Queen Victoria’s jubilee in 1888.
Historic places to see in Camps Bay: Woodhead Reservoir Museum on top of Table Mountain The Round House The Pipe Track Camps Bay Retreat – Argyle Street The Rotunda – The Bay Hotel Philly’s Plaque – Camps Bay Library Old Cannon – Opposite Camps Bay High School Power Station – now Theatre on the Bay War Memorial – Victoria Road, near Theatre on the Bay Heated swimming pool remains – behind the War Memorial

We would be more than happy to provide you with additional information about Camps Bay’s History should you wish to dig a little deeper.