I can't imagine why I have never written a review for this lovely garden before but I am now. This well-managed, gift of a garden in suburbia, is one of the most delightful public gardens to visit in Cape Town and beyond. Established in 1845 by timber merchant and carpenter, Ralph Henry Arderne, when he acquired some land from the Stellenberg Farm. Arderne went about laying out and cultivating his garden in front of his home 'The Hill' (since demolished), and carefully acquiring special trees from every corner of the globe, which he knew would do well in his garden. His son, Henry Matthew Arderne, took over and cared for the garden later, but when he died, the garden was almost lost to us as the land was to be sold for development by the next owner. Fortunately the City's Director of Parks, Mr. A. W. van den Houten, recognised the value of the garden and persuaded the City to buy the most important parts of the garden before it was all subdivided and sold. Today we have 6 champion trees which are well-cared for and protected and a new and exciting developments all the time. Currently they ponds have been restored, with new fencing and waterplants, and the garden is well-tended and always a pleasure to visit. It is also a safe place to meditate, contemplate, or just sit in peace and admire the landscape. Weekends are sometimes very busy as it's a popular venue for wedding photographs and parties, but remember, no alcohol allowed on the premises.