Seeking refreshment? You’ve found it at Newlands Spring. This isn’t just any spring. Newlands Spring holds a special place in Cape Town’s heart, and its history intertwines with the city’s growth. This spring has quenched thirsts for generations. It’s also played a crucial role in the local brewing industry. Imagine Cape Town in 2018, gripped by a severe drought. People flocked to Newlands Spring, desperate for a reliable water source. It became a lifeline, a symbol of resilience in a time of crisis. Even today, with the drought long over, many still prefer the spring’s naturally-sourced water. The Newlands Spring isn’t just about water; it’s about community and history.
Newlands Spring is tucked away on the northern side of the Newlands Swimming Pool, near the Dean Street Shopping Centre. It’s open seven days a week, from 5 am to 9 pm. Grab a container and come fill up. It’s free. The spring’s claim to fame? High-quality water. Did you know this spring has a brewing connection? South Africa’s first licensed brewery, established in 1694 at nearby Papenboom, relied on this very spring. Today, the Newlands Spring Brewing Company continues the tradition, using its water for their craft beers. The spring’s influence stretches even further back. In the mid-1800s, its water powered the area’s water mills. This is more than just a water source. It’s a living piece of history. A testament to Cape Town’s resourceful past.
Newlands Spring even has guidelines. You can collect up to 25 liters at a time. The water flows continuously from a stone drain fitted with a PVC pipe, about 15cm in diameter, designed to make filling your containers easy. Typically, there are 16 taps, though this was reduced to 8 during Covid restrictions. Water from the spring usually flows directly into the Liesbeek River. Its TDS level is 95, the temperature fluctuates between a cool 5 and 15 degrees Celsius, and it has a pH of 5.9.
A word of caution. The water from Newlands Spring is untreated. The City of Cape Town can’t guarantee its safety for drinking. But even with this advisory, Newlands Spring continues to draw people in. It’s a place where history flows as freely as the water. So, next time you’re near Newlands, stop by the spring. Take a moment to appreciate its history and its significance to the community. It’s a refreshing experience, in every sense of the word.