Newington Road Victorian Houses, Port Elizabeth

This row of late Victorian double-storey, semi-detached dwellings forms a unique terrace erected in the late 19th century, and survives largely unaltered to the present day. It was declared a National Monument under old NMC legislation on 15 July 1983. Newington Road is found in one of the most historic suburbs in central Port Elizabeth, namely Richmond Hill! This road is at once peaceful and interesting. Some of the houses here still have original wooden fretwork on display on their eaves, and include quaint Victorian cottages and buildings that date back to the late 1800s. Any hint of falling out of favour with local residents has been wiped out as the pretty blend of Victorian and Old Edwardian semi-detached and freestanding cottages in Richmond Hill, with fireplaces and some magnificent examples of chandeliers are now actively being sought out. Richmond Hill is a portion of the city in which time has stood still, and, if you’re prepared to slow down enough to explore on foot or bicycle, will reward with some fascinating finds - make sure you head up to see the Old Erica Building built in 1903. Not only is the building worth a look, but the views from here are spectacular. Likened to Melville in Johannesburg, Richmond Hill is not a stranger to the odd trendy decor style shop and upmarket restaurant. What began as one of Port Elizabeth’s initial residential suburbs is well worth a visit.