Naval Hill is a flat-topped hill almost in the centre of Bloemfontein. Naval Hill provides an excellent panoramic view of Bloemfontein and in earlier years, before the electric illumination of Bloemfontein nights, housed the Lamont Hussey Observatory.
Sterrewag Theatre
The Lamont Hussey Observatory has been converted into the intimate Sterrewag theatre, after conditions for astronomical observations of the heavens became less than ideal. The Sterrewag Theatre adds a unique atmosphere to every performance.
Franklin Game Reserve
The Franklin Game Reserve, uniquely situated in the heart of the city of Bloemfontein, encompasses all of Naval Hill and preserves some of the fauna and flora indigenous to the Bloemfontein area, including various animal species ranging from giraffe to steenbuck. Residents and visitors can enter the Franklin Game Reserve free of charge, and many joggers take advantage of the steep incline of Naval Hill and the natural beauty of the Franklin Game Reserve for their daily exercise.
The White Horse
On the slopes of Naval Hill, the men of the Wiltshire Remount Depot laid out a huge white horse during the Anglo Boer War. The White Horse served as a landmark for British horsemen coming in from the plains surrounding Bloemfontein.
Some of the Sotho residents of Bloemfontein believe that it is a depiction of King Mosoeshoe's favourite steed.
An annecdotal rumour has it that the White Horse takes one step forward every time someone gets kissed on Naval Hill, and during the University of the Free State's annual Rag festivities, the White Horse runs the Durban July!
Naval Hill
Naval Hill is the first recognisable landmark when approaching Bloemfontein from any direction. The hill is also a constant companion to life in Bloemfontein.
