Pig and Whistle Inn – South Africa’s Oldest Continuously Licensed Pub
Step into history with this extraordinary opportunity to own one of South Africa’s most iconic hospitality landmarks. Established in 1832, the Pig and Whistle Inn proudly holds the title of the oldest continuously licensed pub in South Africa and remains one of the Eastern Cape’s most loved heritage destinations.
Situated in the heart of the charming village of Bathurst, just 12 km from Port Alfred and its magnificent beaches, this National Monument offers far more than a property purchase — it is the acquisition of a thriving lifestyle business, a celebrated tourism destination, and a remarkable piece of South African history.
Rich in character and atmosphere, the property has become the social heartbeat of Bathurst for nearly 200 years. From its original stone walls, exposed wooden beams, fireplaces, stained-glass features, and antique décor, every part of the Inn tells a story of a bygone era while continuing to operate as a successful modern hospitality business.
Established Hospitality & Tourism Business
The business has gone from strength to strength and has successfully recovered post-Covid, recently achieving its strongest financial performance to date. Owner-managed and operating as a successful going concern, the property attracts loyal locals, national visitors, international tourists, students, families, wedding guests, artists, cyclists, and adventure travelers throughout the year.
The sale includes:
• A fully operational Inn / Hotel
• Popular restaurant and pub
• Function and entertainment venue
• Multiple retail rental opportunities - Extended income from shops
• Additional studio space
• Extensive furniture, fittings, memorabilia, and operational equipment
Accommodation:
The hotel offers 10 guest rooms filled with old-world charm and heritage appeal.
Guest Accommodation Includes:
• 4 en-suite guest rooms with Victorian ball-and-claw baths
• Exposed beams and period finishes
• Coffee stations and ceiling fans
• 6 traditional heritage rooms with original wooden floors and thick stone walls
• Spacious communal bathrooms maintained in immaculate condition
Several rooms form part of the original Hartley family homestead dating back to the early 1800s, further adding to the historical significance of the property.
Restaurant, Pub & Entertainment Areas:
The famous pub remains one of the Eastern Cape’s most recognised social destinations, known for its vibrant atmosphere, warm hospitality, live music, excellent food, and fascinating historical memorabilia displayed throughout the building.
The hospitality areas include:
• Traditional pub with parquet flooring and fireplace
• Restaurant and dining room
• Original lounge area with stained-glass doors
• Covered verandah and outdoor street seating
• Garden entertainment spaces
• Covered outdoor stage
• Swimming pool and family entertainment area
The venue regularly hosts:
• Weddings
• Live music events
• Sunday lunches
• Community gatherings
• Private functions
• Tourist events
The cosmopolitan atmosphere and artistic energy of Bathurst contribute significantly to the Inn’s popularity and long-standing success.
Multiple Income Streams
One of the property’s strongest investment features is its diversified income structure.
The property includes:
• Hotel accommodation income
• Restaurant and pub revenue
• Event and function income
• 3 adjoining retail shops with rental income
• Pilates/Yoga studio rental
• Tourism-driven hospitality trade
This creates a stable and scalable business model with excellent future growth potential.
Infrastructure & Operational Features
The property is well equipped for continued commercial operation and includes:
• Commercial kitchen
• Storerooms
• Staff and management areas
• Large solar geyser
• 2 electric geysers
• 10kVA inverter system
• 7kVA generator backup
• 50,000L rainwater storage tanks
• 5,000L municipal backup tank
The sale includes furniture, fittings, antique décor, paintings, and operational equipment, allowing for a seamless business transition.
Prime Eastern Cape Location
Bathurst is one of the Eastern Cape’s most unique and artistic heritage villages, known for:
• Historic attractions
• Vibrant arts community
• Restaurants and tourism
• Nearby beaches and outdoor lifestyle
• Strong equestrian culture
• Agricultural surroundings
Nearby attractions include:
• The Big Pineapple
• Bradshaw's Mill
• Waters Meeting Nature Reserve
The property is also conveniently situated between:
• KuGompo City - know as East London
• Gqeberha -know as Port Elizabeth
• Makhanda - know as Grahamstown
Port Alfred - Sunshine Coastal Town with beautiful beaches and holiday atmosphere
Education:
With access to leading schools in Makhanda -: St. Andrew's College, Kings College Gramham College, Mary Water s High School - all with high Academic, Sport and Arts performers and boarding options.
Rhodes University, established in 1904 in Makhanda , is one of South Africa’s oldest universities.
A Rare Investment Opportunity
The Pig and Whistle Inn is more than a hospitality property — it is a living South African landmark with nearly two centuries of history, loyal clientele, established tourism appeal, and strong commercial potential.
Whether you are seeking:
• A profitable hospitality investment,
• A lifestyle business,
• A tourism venture,
• Or the opportunity to preserve and grow an iconic heritage destination,
This remarkable property offers timeless appeal combined with multiple income-generating opportunities.
Price excludes VAT.
Financials and additional information available to qualified buyers on request.
Contact Mariette Kennedy for personal assistance and viewing!!