A Neighbourhood Tour Through Athlone: 5 Attractions Worth Seeing
Athlone is an interesting mix of life, lying just east of Cape Town’s city centre. It’s the gateway to the Cape Flats, and depending on where you are, you can be surrounded by a lively hustle or
quieter corners that give you a break from the rush. The area is divided into smaller parts—places like Gatesville, Rylands, Belgravia Estate, Bridgetown, and Hazendal.
With a community that’s passionate about its arts, food, and culture, it’s definitely one of the more tourist-friendly spots on the Flats. In this post, we’ll take you through five must-see spots that show off what makes Athlone special.
Table of Contents
Athlone Stadium
Visit it at Cross Boulevard
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When we think of Athlone, we think of the stadium. You can’t miss the iconic white arches of Athlone Stadium rising above the rooftops. Back in 2010 it was a training hub for the FIFA World Cup teams. And in 2014 it hosted eight matches during the African Nations Championship. But it’s also where local youth leagues play with just as much spirit and pride. For both pros and amateurs, Athlone Stadium represents the grit and passion of soccer. You’ll also find major concerts and community celebrations like the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival bringing music and dance to the stadium.
The Robert Waterwitch / Coline Williams Memorial statue
Visit it at Old Klipfontein Road
Coline Williams and Robbie Waterwitch were young people whose lives were cut short by the fight they believed in. Coline, born in 1967 in Bonteheuwel, was impacted by the school boycotts in 1985, which pushed her to get involved in the resistance. She was arrested and held in Pollsmoor Prison for 11 months before joining MK, the armed wing of the ANC. Robbie, born in 1969 in Athlone, was active in his school and led efforts to start a student council, even after facing strong opposition. By 1989, he was at university, but the cause kept calling. On July 23, 1989, Robbie and Coline tried to plant a bomb at the Athlone Magistrate’s Court. Unfortunately, the bomb went off too soon. Their deaths didn’t end their legacy – their courage and sacrifice are still remembered today, especially with the memorial set up in their honour.
The Trojan Horse Memorial
Visit it at Thornton Road
The Trojan Horse Memorial in Athlone tells a painful story. On 15 October 1985, Jonathan Claasen, 21, Shaun Magmoed, 15, and Michael Miranda, 11, were shot and killed during a peaceful protest against apartheid. Disguised in a truck loaded with crates, armed police ambushed the crowd, injuring many and killing the three boys.
Their families sought justice, but no one was ever held responsible. The legal system, designed to protect the regime, dismissed their pleas, leaving a community shattered and angry.
Unveiled in 2005, the memorial honors these young lives and the sacrifices made in the fight for freedom. It stands where the tragedy happened, offering a space to remember the past and the price of resistance.
Athlone Power Station
Visit it along the N2
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Athlone Power Station has been standing tall on the Cape Flats’ skyline for generations. Its cooling towers loomed over the highway, a constant for anyone traveling the N2. Built to keep the city running, it eventually reached the end of its time, and the towers were brought down in 2010 after years of aging. The main building and chimneys still stand, waiting for their next purpose. Though its future is undecided, the station remains a piece of Cape Town’s story, holding echoes of a time when coal powered the city and landmarks like this shaped the daily lives of its people.
The Gatsby Mural
Visit it at Kannabast Close
In Kewtown, the Gatsby mural celebrates the birthplace of Cape Town’s legendary sandwich. It was here in Athlone that Rashaad Pandy created the Gatsby in 1976. With slap chips, polony, and achaar packed into a loaf, it became a meal for workers, later named “Gatsby smash” by one of them. The name stuck, and the sandwich grew into a Cape Town favorite. This mural reflects the roots of a meal that’s been shared, enjoyed, and loved for decades.
And While You’re There, Visit These Eateries
Super Fisheries
Visit it at 63 Old Klipfontein Road
If you’re in Athlone, you have to swing by Super Fisheries. This is where it all started, with Rashaad Pandy—the guy who invented the gatsby—serving up some of the best. Whether you’re after the classic polony gatsby with atchar or something different like fish or calamari, every bite is packed with flavour and tradition.
Wembley Road House
Visit it at Belgravia Road, Belgravia
Open every night until late, this spot knows how to feed you. From curries and samoosas to grilled meat and thick pizzas, there’s something for everyone. You can eat comfortably, whether you’re sitting outside under an umbrella or in the peaceful garden. They serve up good food with a friendly touch, and everything is halaal.
Golden Dish
Visit it at Hazel Road, Gatesville
Golden Dish is a place you can’t skip if you’re in the area. This family-run eatery has been serving up some of the best gatsbies since the 60s. The full house gatsby and masala steak sandwich have been local favourites for years, and it’s no surprise there’s usually a line out the door on weekends.
Header Image Credit: Atlone Power station oblique aerial view by Tadpolefarm. This image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.
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