Along a quiet stretch of the R103, Fort Nottingham remains among the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands’ most enduring historical sites. This year marks 170 years since the fort’s establishment in 1856, offering a timely opportunity to reflect on its origins and what exists here today, a small yet active heritage site that continues to be shaped by the local community. David Fox’s Book & Local History The story of the fort is carefully documented in The History...
Here are your local restaurants serving up good food and delicious brews with picturesque views. A Recipe for Relaxation Tumble Downs Café & Restaurant is situated along Curry’s Post Road, in Howick. The original horse stables on the old farmstead have been renovated into an open, free-flowing dining space without pretence and formality. This country restaurant, with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, allows diners to relax and enjoy the beauty of the unspoilt surroundings while...
Harvest of Fun and Friendly Competition! James and Beth Kelly are the founders of the annual Cabbage Competition hosted at Midlands Fable in Curry’s Post. The competition’s second year was celebrated on 13 December 2025, filled with farming fun, food, and the search for the Midlands’ mightiest cabbage! “We thought it would be a fun way to bring the community together for a bit of friendly competition (and maybe some bragging rights), while shining a...
We spoke to people across different schools and generations to understand what keeps educational traditions alive. In the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, schools shape more than academics; they create shared memories, enduring relationships, and a lasting sense of belonging. For many families, these schools are woven into their history, with generations returning because the schools are part of their identity and family life. Some can trace three generations through the same classrooms. Others move back to their...
Here are a few gift ideas straight from the Fabmags team – enjoy our haul as we bring you the best of the countryside finds for this festive season. Lorinda Scott “If you’re looking for a gift that’s as unique as the person you’re giving it to, I recommend the Netherwood Blueberry Rum Liqueur from Blueberry Café. I find their gins and rums to be so unusual and cool.” @theblueberry_cafe Justin Scott “I guess you...
Muddy Paws, Festive Furballs & Holiday Mischief! Christmas cheer isn’t just for the humans – as trees go up, delicious food goes in the oven, and decorations (accidentally) fall off the tree – our furry family members are right in the middle of the festive fun. Whether it’s muddy farm adventures, unplanned “singing”, stolen snacks, or simply sitting in the middle of the fireplace like royalty, these beloved pets bring their own kind of magic...
We are pleased to share three hearty and fun Christmas recipes from renowned chef Jackie Cameron. Give these a try if you’re out of ideas or need some inspiration. Here’s to merriment and joy for this festive season! Stoney Ginger Beer, Fresh Peach & Cherry Glazed Dargle Christmas Ham Ingredients: 2kg “Dargle Valley Meat” – Gammon Ham (Bone-out) For the Glaze: 150g butter, salted 300g treacle brown sugar 90ml Dijon mustard 3 cups Stoney Ginger...
We always keep our ears to the ground when it comes to outstanding community members, and we want to give a shout-out to one such member, Kate-Marie Butlin, a woman, mother, an avid trail runner, and business owner, who is proud to be building a successful life here in our neck of the woods. Meet Midlands-born mom and businesswoman, Kate-Marie Butlin. She has been shaped by small-town life in the best of ways and is...
Celebration mode commences at this time of year, with public events, markets, and live performances – making the most of the extra daylight. These balmy weeks provide the perfect backdrop for everything that makes this part of the world daydream-worthy, with many opportunities to witness the drama of summer unfolding in nature. Here’s how to enjoy the season without the midday scorch: Early Morning Adventures Sunrise Zip-linings For those who like a dash of adrenaline...
This year marks a special occasion for Cascades Lifestyle Centre in Pietermaritzburg because they’re celebrating their 15th birthday. This is a proud milestone for the centre, which had its humble beginnings as a small nature-inspired shopping destination with only a few shops. But, over the years, it blossomed into what it is today, a “lifestyle hub” with a rich combination of all things retail, wellness, dining, and community. “Cascades has always been about connection –...