Richmond

Richmond, in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, is a busy little town situated on the upper banks of the Illovo River. The town includes the quaint village of Baynesfield and the Byrne valley.

Established in 1850, Richmond has come a long way in the agricultural industry, with timber, sugar cane, poultry, citrus fruit and dairy being the area’s main produce.

For visitors with a keen appreciation for history, the Blarney Cottage is regarded as the last remaining, unchanged, settler home in the area and is worth a visit. The Byrne and District Museum showcases a turbulent but beautiful past that shaped the town of Richmond. There are a number of historical buildings in the town including St. Mary’s Anglican Church built in 1865, the Old Court House dating back to the 1860’s and the Freemason’s Lodge built in the late 19th century. The Old Court House has been converted into a mini shopping mall and also houses the local information office.

The surrounding area is typical of the beautiful Natal Midlands with rolling hills, deep gorges and dams. The Beaulieu Dam is known for its giant carp and the nearby Highover Nature Reserve in the Umkomazi River Gorge is home to the endangered blue swallow.

Getting there from Durban: Head West on Carlisle Street. Take the first left on Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street and right onto the R102. Keep right at the fork and merge onto the N3. Take exit 61 onto Umlaas Road towards Richmond and turning right onto the R103/R603 continue onto P338. Take a left onto the R56 and a final left thereafter.