A Midlands Stay

For visitors exploring the Midlands, where you stay can be as much a part of the experience as where you go. Nottingham Road makes a beautiful base for discovering the surrounding countryside, with easy access to restaurants, events and some of the area’s best-known attractions. We look at two very different options nearby: the historic Nottingham Road Hotel and the peaceful Netherwood Farm Cottages.

Netherwood Farm Cottages
During a recent stay at one of Netherwood’s cottages, I was struck by how easily it blends country tranquillity with the convenience of a central Nottingham Road location, and just minutes from Blueberry Brewery.

My visit coincided with an event in Nottingham Road, making the stay wonderfully convenient. Within minutes, I was where I needed to be and part of the lively community, yet returning to the cottage felt like retreating to a quieter setting. After the bustle of Nottingham Road’s shops, restaurants and events, the stillness of Netherwood felt all the more welcome, offering the best of both worlds without having to choose between them. The following day, a hot coffee and a snack at Blueberry Café, practically on the doorstep, was the perfect way to round off the stay.
Netherwood has long been a favourite destination for its café, brewery and beautiful farm setting, but staying overnight offers the chance to experience the property at a slower pace. As the buzz of the day fades, the rolling hills and open spaces remind you exactly why this region remains such a beloved escape.

With a fully equipped kitchen, fridge/freezer, stocked and functional fireplace, TV area, extra blankets and a huge bath as well as a shower, Ankole Cottage had everything I needed. Whether you’re stopping over for a night or settling in for a long weekend, the accommodation strikes a balance between simplicity and comfort.

Netherwood offers a range of two-sleeper and four-sleeper cottages, ideal for couples, families and friends looking for a countryside getaway. For larger gatherings, Lidgett’s Grant Lodge provides spacious accommodation perfectly suited for special occasions.

Guests can enjoy walking and mountain biking trails, trout and bass fishing, birding, or the simple pleasure of spending time outdoors. The property’s peaceful setting allows visitors to embrace the slower pace for which the Midlands is so well known.

Perhaps what I appreciated most about my stay was the feeling of being tucked away in the countryside while still being at the centre of the action. Netherwood offers the best of both worlds: secluded country charm with the convenience of having the hub of the Midlands on your doorstep.

Website: www.netherwood.co.za

Nottingham Road Hotel

Arriving feels like stepping into a piece of living history. The building, with its whitewashed gables and broad verandah, exudes a timeless charm. The reception area is warm and welcoming, reflecting the hotel’s long-standing reputation for genuine hospitality. I felt so at home on my arrival. The public spaces – pub, lounge, and dining area – are inviting, featuring timber fittings and a lived-in charm that speaks to its rich past.

Accommodation options range from classic country-style doubles in the main house to modern garden suites. The garden suites provide additional space and tranquillity, with patios that lead into the gardens. Having a morning cup of tea on the patio was absolutely delightful. Guests consistently appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and value the easy access to the Midlands Meander.

The pub is the heart of Notties! Locals and visitors alike gather here for pints, pizzas (which are superb), and hearty meals. The cosy but festive atmosphere is second to none, as anyone who’s ever been to Notties Pub will know. The restaurant offers generous, home-style dishes, and I can highly recommend the full English breakfast on a chilly morning. Fireplaces are always lit, adding to the cosy feel. Whether you’re finishing a day on the Meander or stopping in for a night, the food and pub are standout features.

From Sunday lunches to live music nights, the hotel plays an active role in the community. Its gardens and outdoor seating make good use of the Midlands’ weather, and its location makes it a great base for day trips. Relaxed and friendly hosts and staff embody the spirit of the region.
Notties has been part of Nottingham Road since the mid-1800s. Its pub is one of KwaZulu-Natal’s oldest, and its history comes with stories, including that of Charlotte, the so-called friendly ghost of Room 10. Guests have reported taps turning on, objects moving, and subtle sounds in the night. These tales add a touch of mystery to the hotel, making it a unique destination for those intrigued by local legends.

The hotel is also pet-friendly and popular for weddings and weekends away. The new on-site Padel facility is very popular with locals.

The hotel is about warmth, history, and authenticity. It has robust countryside charm, offering character, hospitality, and a deep sense of place. For those who value atmosphere, comfort, and history, Notties is worth the stop. And if you stay in Room 10, you might just meet Charlotte!

Website: www.nottieshotel.co.za