Middleton

Middleton, Greater Addo

The tiny settlement of Middleton may be described as a village, or even a hamlet, thanks to its being so small. It is secluded in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, about 140 kilometres from Port Elizabeth (the main metropolis of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality). It is along the banks of the mighty Great Fish River, which runs from Graaff-Reinet and through Cradock.

Middleton was established as a train station in 1879, thanks to its convenient locale. Today, that original train station has been turned into a fun and inviting pub, where locals meet and welcome visitors. Other buildings here include the police station, a few homes, a bottle store, general dealer and one of the original stone buildings.

Middleton is best known amongst hunters that come to the beautiful Eastern Cape game parks to test their tracking and shooting skills and to shoot game for the pot. Most of the local inhabitants are farmers, who welcome foreigners that help to inject funds and adventure into this quiet spot. These ones can often be seen swopping stories over a cold brandy and Coke at the pub, and this relaxed ambience is the essence of Middleton.

Visiting Graaff-Reinet, Cradock and even places further afield (such as Port Elizabeth) will give those who venture to this part of South Africa a very different perspective of this country. Not only does it have world-class amenities, but these little towns also showcase the history, culture and heritage of South Africa.

Middleton is located just off the N10 motorway.