The History

Durnford's Lodge is an old converted house and is named after Lt. Col. Anthony Durnford, who lost his life in the battle of Isandlawana in 1879. He was a unique character in every way and was renowned for being involved with Bishop Colenso's daughter. Although married, he was estranged from his wife who had remained in England.

The town of Ladysmith is steeped in South African war history and there are many monuments and memorials related to the war. The Siege Museum is in town next to the Town Hall, and is easily accessible from Durnford's Lodge & in close proximity to the battlefield sites. Spioenkop Nature Reserve and the Drakensberg mountain range are short distances from Durnford's Lodge.

History Tours with registered SATOUR Guides may be arranged on request.

Ladysmith is famous for the well known musical group "Ladysmith Black Mambazo", and tribute to the group may be viewed at the "Village of Sound", in the main street of Ladysmith.