Delville Wood Memorial

Delville Wood Memorial Cape Town: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide to Cape Town Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Delville Wood Memorial, located within Cape Town’s historic Company’s Garden, stands as a powerful tribute to the South Africans who served and sacrificed during World War I, especially those who fought at the renowned Battle of Delville Wood in 1916. As a prominent landmark, the memorial not only honors the bravery and unity of South Africa’s fighting forces but also reflects the nation’s commitment to inclusive remembrance, recently expanded to acknowledge the contributions of the black South African Labour Corps. This detailed guide provides historical context, practical visiting information, and tips to help you make the most of your visit to this essential Cape Town historical site (delvillewoodtrust.org.za, cwgc.org, TimesLIVE, South Africa.net).

Historical Significance

The Battle of Delville Wood

The Battle of Delville Wood (15–20 July 1916) was South Africa’s first major engagement on the Western Front. The South African Brigade, fighting as part of the British 9th Division during the Somme Offensive, suffered devastating casualties—over 70% of the 3,153 men who entered the wood were killed, wounded, or missing (TimesLIVE). The soldiers’ steadfast defense against overwhelming odds forged a legacy of courage and sacrifice that remains central to South Africa’s military history.

Memorialization and Inclusive Remembrance

The original Delville Wood South African National Memorial was erected in Longueval, France, designed by Sir Herbert Baker. Recognizing the need for accessible commemoration, a faithful replica was established in Cape Town’s Company’s Garden. The site has since evolved, with the recent addition of the Labour Corps Memorial in 2025, honoring over 1,700 black South Africans who served and died in World War I but were long omitted from official recognition (cwgc.org).

Architectural and Artistic Features

Design: The Cape Town memorial replicates the classical tempietto design of the French original, complete with a bronze group by Alfred Turner symbolizing unity—two men (representing English and Afrikaans South Africans) clasping hands above a warhorse (artefacts.co.za).
Labour Corps Memorial: The new monument, designed by Dean Jay Architects, features upright markers for each fallen Labour Corps member, integrating local aesthetic and historical references (cwgc.org).
Inscriptions: Bilingual inscriptions in English and Afrikaans honor all South Africans who made the supreme sacrifice, with the main dedication reading:

“To the Immortal Dead from South Africa, who at the call of Duty made the Great Sacrifice on the battlefields of Africa, Asia and Europe and on the Sea, this memorial is dedicated in proud and grateful recognition by their countrymen.”
Setting: Landscaped lawns, reflecting pools, and shaded benches create a contemplative space in the heart of the city, surrounded by significant cultural and historical landmarks.

Visiting Information

Location

Address: Company’s Garden, Cape Town City Centre, 8001
Nearby Landmarks: Iziko South African Museum, South African National Gallery, Parliament Buildings, St George’s Cathedral (South Africa.net)

Opening Hours

Daily: 7:00 AM – sunset (typically around 7:00 PM in summer; 5:00 PM in winter)
Remembrance Ceremonies: Annual events take place on 11 November (Remembrance Day) and other commemorative dates.

Admission

Entry: Free; no tickets required

Accessibility & Facilities

Wheelchair Access: Paved and mostly flat paths; some older sections may be uneven—assistance is recommended for those with mobility concerns.
Facilities: Public restrooms, benches, and a café (“Coffee at The Vine”) are available within the Company’s Garden (cultureconnectsa.com).
Safety: The garden is well-patrolled during the day; standard urban caution is advised.

Guided Tours

Tours: No regular tours specific to the memorial, but several city walking tours include the site. The Audiala app offers self-guided audio tours.
Educational Panels: On-site plaques and panels provide historical context.

Photography

Allowed: Yes, with respect for ceremonies and moments of silence.

Tips for a Meaningful Visit

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere and the best light for photography.
Allow 20–30 minutes to explore the memorial and read the inscriptions.
Attend Remembrance Day or commemorative ceremonies for an especially moving experience.
Combine your visit with the Iziko South African Museum, National Gallery, and other Company’s Garden attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Delville Wood Memorial opening hours?
A: Daily from 7:00 AM until sunset.

Q: Is there an entrance fee or are tickets required?
A: No, entry is free and no tickets are needed.

Q: Are there guided tours available?
A: While no official guides are stationed at the memorial, several city walking tours include it, and the Audiala app provides audio guidance.

Q: Is the memorial wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, most paths are accessible, though some are uneven.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: October to March for the best weather, and November 11 for Remembrance Day ceremonies.

Q: Can I take photographs at the memorial?
A: Yes, but please be respectful during ceremonies or moments of silence.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring these nearby Cape Town historical and cultural sites:

Iziko South African Museum
South African National Gallery
St George’s Cathedral
Rose Garden and VOC Vegetable Garden
Parliament Buildings
Greenmarket Square for local crafts and souvenirs (MyTripToCapeTown)

Inclusive Commemoration and Cultural Practices

The Delville Wood Memorial is at the forefront of inclusive remembrance in South Africa. The addition of the Labour Corps Memorial, with names inscribed and a commemorative poem by Koleka Putuma and Daljit Nagra, ensures that the sacrifices of black South Africans are formally honored (cwgc.org). The tradition of the two-minute silence, which originated in Cape Town in 1919, continues to be observed here, cementing the city’s role in global remembrance traditions (The Heritage Portal).

Visitor Services

Cafés and Rest Areas: Coffee at The Vine and other nearby cafés offer refreshments.
Information: On-site panels and plaques provide historical information; for more in-depth resources, use the Audiala app or official tourism websites.

Safety and Security

The memorial is centrally located and well-patrolled during the day. Exercise standard urban caution and keep valuables secure.

Conclusion

The Delville Wood Memorial in Cape Town is a compelling site of reflection, remembrance, and unity—offering accessible, free, and enriching experiences for all visitors. Its layered history, evocative design, and commitment to inclusive commemoration make it one of South Africa’s most important war memorials and a must-see for anyone interested in the country’s military history and journey toward national reconciliation.

Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours, and follow us on social media for updates and special event notifications.

Sources and Further Reading

Plan your visit to the Delville Wood Memorial and deepen your understanding of South Africa’s heritage. For guided audio tours and more historical insights, download the Audiala app and explore related articles on our platform.