Her Majesty's Apology

Her Majesty's Apology is the newly renovated wing of an old sandstone farmhouse, which is set in a beautiful garden, on a working farm.

At the turn of the century, while Paul Bester, one of the original farmers, was interned in Ladysmith during the Anglo Boer War, the infamous Rimington's Guides attacked his Free State farm, turning out his family, and burning down the house. After the war, as an apology, the British Crown rebuilt the homestead. It is this older wing of the house which has now been renovated for guests, hence the name, "Her Majesty's Apology"

This charming, historic homestead is cool in the summer months, but has a cosy fireplace for those chilly Free State winter nights. It comprises three bedrooms, and an open-plan kitchen, dining area and lounge. The first bedroom contains a double bed, and the second and third bedrooms each contain twin single beds. The bathroom features a ball and claw tub, and a shower. The kitchen is well equipped for self-catering. Catered meals and picnic baskets may be provided by arrangement.

This is a prime spot for birding and mountain biking. There are plenty of hiking trails in the vicinity; your hosts can provide routes for beginner mountain bikers as well as adventurous biking veterans. Guests can also enjoy visits to the Sterkfontein Dam, Clarens, the Golden Gate National Park, and the Drakensberg.

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Reviews

"luxury quiet hideaway in the veld"

26 March 2017

"Our host was most welcomingA complete houseNice gardenGreat skies"
"One night stay"

24 October 2016

"Arriving on my bike in the rain made the warm welcome -and cosy fire - even better. Great place to stay. Recommend to biking groups. Close to quality riding and would make a perfect base to explore the area. Food was good quality and exceptional value. Very pleased Queen Vic apologised."
"Beautiful old farm house"

17 July 2016

"We were pleasantly surprised by the accomodation on this beautiful working farm. We were in an old farm house next door to the main farm house and were greeted by the owner who made a fire for us, switched on all the heaters and generally made us feel at home. The house is amazing and is great value for money. We would definitely go back here,"
"Peaceful Stay"

11 July 2016

"What a fabulous stay, the warm, cosy fire and lovely farm house were just what we needed to unwind.<div>The breakfast the next morning was just what we needed after the lovely long walk. Will definitelystay here again! Thank you Angie.</div>"
"Overnight stop"

24 June 2016

"Her Majestys Apology was the perfect stop over for me between JHB and DBN, I had a lovely 8km trail run on the farm in the morning before heading to DBN. House was clean and warm, with the fire lit before I arrived, Angie was friendly and welcoming. Will definitely return."
"Her Majestys Apology"

25 May 2016

"The hostess Angie Bester gave us a warm welcome. She is a amazing lady. This old farmhouse tell it's own story and Angie is already living here for 49 years.Because my surname is also Bester we exchanged some history which was very interesting. We had a braai outside and although it was very cold we enjoyed it. There was a nice fire burning inside and even the old style warm bottles was available which we used and enjoyed.The old wooden floors and old quality furniture brought back good memories. This farm is a must to experience. We enjoyed it very much."
"Charming and tranquil"

01 February 2016

"An extremely comfortable and tranquil cottage; we much appreciated the fresh flowers, lovely garden and birdlife, and the delicious cheesecake with our evening meal. We felt most refreshed after our stay.<br />"
"Lovely oasis"

04 January 2016

"Fantastic overnight stay well away from the crowds. Very peaceful and lovely garden for children to play in. Food was fantastic especially the lemon meringue pie."
"Great cottage and amazing food"

20 December 2015

"Angie was a lovely host and the food she prepared was delicious! Will definitely stay there again."
"Beautiful farm homestead"

13 December 2015

"What a relaxing place to stay just outside Harrismith.  A beautiful farm, lovely home, luxury linen and generous meal. Well kitted out kitchen for self-catering. Gravel road in good condition made getting to the parkrun in 30 minutes easy.  Very accommodating to our needs for a baby camp cot and later checkout.  Lovely hosts too!  Will definitely stay here again.<br />"
"Great farm stay"

13 April 2015

"Pleasantly surprised by this wonderful little gem outside Harrismith. The scenery is beautiful and the accommodation top notch. The farm house was well kitted out for cold weather. Very friendly owners were there to welcome us upon our arrival. Will definitely return.<br />"
"One night stay"

18 March 2015

"<p>We found the owners very friendly and kind. The self catering facility was excellent. We enjoyed the peace and tranquility and the lovely atmosphere of the old building. Thank you Angie and Malcholm!</p><p>Annalene van Heerden, Pieter and Magda van Zyl</p>"
"Escape the City"

18 November 2014

"Our three day stay was far too brief. Her Majesty's Apology is all of the following and more. Gracious and warm hosts, well appointed and comfortable accommodation, beautiful scenery, delicious homemade wholesome food and most importantly - a complete escape from the rat race not just for adults but especially children.Craig, Vanessa, Bella and Harper"
"Warm and Homely Stay"

15 November 2014

"Malcolm and Angela were very hospitable and the guest living/staying quarters are well equipped, very comfortable and spacious. The meals provided, on prior request, were scrumptious too."
"Our 24th anniversary"

12 November 2014

"Everything was fantastic. The food was awesome. The hospitality was superb. They did everything they could to make our stay special."
"What a wonderful stay!"

02 October 2014

"Lovely farm with a beautiful old house in the peaceful country side. The house was VERY well equipped with everything a family needs and even more. The Bester family went out of their way to make our stay comfortable. Thank you for the wonderful meal and "kuier"! Loved the coffee and rusks! We would really recommend HMA to any family that wants to get away from city life and enjoy some quality time with each other. It isn't far from the N3 and the dirt road is in good condition compared to many in SA."