The timeless tale of Kimberley's Star of the West

TUCKED away just a stone’s throw from Kimberley’s world-famous Big Hole lies a relic of a bygone era — the Star of the West. With its rustic wooden façade and sun-kissed verandas, this beloved pub stands as a living monument to the city’s storied past.

Built in 1870, the Star of the West is widely regarded as one of the oldest operating pubs in South Africa. Its walls have soaked in over 150 years of laughter, longing, stories, and songs, serving as both a watering hole and a witness to history.

When diamonds were first discovered in Kimberley, the town erupted almost overnight. Thousands of hopefuls flocked to the area with shovels and dreams, driven by the prospect of striking it rich. The Star of the West became a sanctuary for dusty miners seeking a cold ale and a reprieve from the unforgiving heat and hard labour. It wasn’t just a pub — it was the beating heart of a chaotic and colourful frontier town.

But beneath its wooden floorboards lay an even more intriguing chapter. Whispered legends tell of an underground tunnel stretching from the Big Hole to the Star of the West, used by prostitutes during the diamond rush. These secret passageways allowed them to move discreetly from the bustling mining pits to the pub’s shadowy corners, where miners waited to trade their newly earned wealth for companionship. Though the tunnels are now sealed, they remain an irresistible part of Kimberley’s folklore — a reminder that history often hides in the most unexpected places.

The Star of the West has weathered more than just time. It has survived world wars, economic crashes, mining booms and busts, and even the flow of modern development. And yet, like the diamonds that birthed this city, it endures.

Today, walking into the Star of the West feels like stepping back in time. The original wooden bar still stands proudly. Looking up, you see the original ceilings, the steps leading to the upper floor, and all the doors and window frames preserved in their original state, while historic photographs line the walls – frozen memories of a town once called "the richest square mile on earth". The scent of aged wood and the sound of stories echoing off the walls carry the unmistakable weight of legacy.

But this is no longer just a pub for grizzled miners and nostalgic locals. The Star of the West has embraced the present with open arms, reinventing itself as a family-friendly destination that keeps the soul of the past alive while welcoming a new generation of visitors.

Under recent renovations and inspired management, the Star of the West now boasts a hearty, well-priced menu that celebrates South African favourites. From flame-grilled steaks to delicious burgers, Eisbein, pork neck, and so much more, the kitchen has become a star in its own right. There's even a dedicated kiddies' basket menu to keep the little ones happy.

What truly sets it apart, though, is its inviting atmosphere. The large outdoor seating area, shaded by a big lapa and often graced by live music, gives patrons space to relax, laugh, and share — just like in the old days. A safe, enclosed play area has turned the once-rowdy pub into a perfect weekend outing spot for families. Parents can sip a chilled drink while kids run free just a few metres away.

Despite the changes, the Star of the West has never lost its essence. It’s still a place where locals swap stories, where tourists find themselves drawn into the city’s history, and where every creak in the floor seems to echo with the voices of the past. Whether you're a history enthusiast tracing Kimberley's heritage, a foodie looking for your next memorable meal, or simply someone in need of a welcoming spot to unwind, the Star of the West is the place to be.

In an age where the new often replaces the old, the Star of the West reminds us of the beauty of preservation. It is more than just a building — it is a bridge between what Kimberley once was and what it continues to become.

So next time you find yourself in the City of Diamonds, step off the beaten path and visit the Star of the West. Raise a glass to the past, enjoy a meal in the present, and leave with memories for the future.