Queen's Fort Military Museum Travel Guide: Top Sights in South

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Queen's Fort Military Museum- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; South Africa; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 2 hours

The Queen's Fort Military Museum in Bloemfontein offers a comprehensive historical account of warfare in the Free State from the mid-19th century onwards. Constructed in 1848 by order of British authorities following the Battle of Boomplaats, the fort was initially named in honor of Queen Victoria. Over the decades, it transitioned through multiple roles—serving as a British and later Republican military headquarters, a mental institution, a prison, and eventually a museum. Its layered history reflects broader shifts in South Africa's military and colonial past, including its use during the Anglo-Boer War, World War II, and the 1914 Maritz Rebellion. The museum showcases original rampart walls, artillery pieces, stables, and barracks, all restored and maintained under provincial heritage status since 1990. Exhibits cover a wide range of military and socio-political narratives, such as the incarceration of General Christiaan De Wet and the confinement of David Pratt following the 1960 assassination attempt on Prime Minister Hendrik Verwoerd. Administered by the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, the site preserves significant architectural elements like the arched entrance and the Blue Lodge residence, making it a key destination for travelers interested in South African military and political history.

Operators offering tours in South Africa

Attractions in Bloemfontein

Anglo Boer War Museum

Naval Hill

4.4

National Museum Bloemfontein

4.6

Bloemfontein Botanical Gardens

4.4

Oliewenhuis Art Museum

4.6

Free State Stadium

Freshford House Museum

4.2

South African Armour Museum

4.6

Reviews of Queen's Fort Military Museum

Johnny O'Neil

2
Reviewed: 2025-06-23

Sad. Neglected. Old historical building falling apart. Not open due not having lights in the museum. When I visited in 2019 they had the same problem!
Lionel Squires

1
Reviewed: 2025-03-25

This historical site has become an embarassment to our city. The exibits have been vandalised and many of them such as "Die Vryburger Loop" have been closed. This was the most difinitive historical weapons collection in our province. Where are these priceless artifacts????
Gary Allemann

2
Reviewed: 2025-03-02

Unfortunately not being maintained. Has potential
Nick Veldhuizen

1
Reviewed: 2025-01-03

This was extremely disappointing! The artifacts were ruined, paintings cut open, lights not even working/ switched on, I had to use my phone’s torch as a source of light. No guide, and disgustingly damaged museum! Make a change!
B “Pegasus99” B

1
Reviewed: 2018-08-10

From previous visits I know that this museum is very informative, but these days it is almost never open for visits. The visiting times are not being adhered to. Today, Friday 10 August 2018 at 12:30, I wanted to visit, but I found a locked gate, eventhough the visiting times on the notice board at the gate clearly states that the museum is supposed to be open till 15:30. This is not the first time I find a locked gate. If the museum does not want visitors they should rather close it permanently.