Toy & Miniature Museum
AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | Accommodation | Tourist Experiences | OPEN: Monday – Saturday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Facebook Page | Phone: +27 (0)21 882 8861
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the historic town of Stellenbosch, lies a world of enchantment that transcends age and time. The Toy & Miniature Museum, a satellite of the Stellenbosch Museum, is a delightful hidden gem that invites visitors to take a whimsical journey through the corridors of childhood nostalgia. From intricate miniatures to antique dolls and dinky cars, this museum is a treasure trove of wonder that you simply can’t miss.
About the Museum
The Toy & Miniature Museum is a magical haven for toy enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located on Market Street, right behind the Visitors’ Bureau, this museum houses a diverse collection that is bound to steal your heart. As you wander through this captivating museum, you’ll encounter a wealth of treasures. From a matchbox-sized kitchen that dates back to the 1920s to an iconic replica of the Uitkyk Wine Estate farmhouse, the attention to detail in each exhibit is nothing short of mesmerizing. The miniature farmhouse even features three 19th-century rooms upstairs, adorned with period-appropriate furniture, as well as a main room, a voorkamer, and an 18th-century kitchen on the lower level.
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One of its most extraordinary exhibits is a lifelike 1:12 scale miniature of South Africa’s famous Blue Train – a one-of-a-kind masterpiece in all of Africa. The miniature train embarks on a breathtaking journey, starting from a tiny Stellenbosch and winding its way through the Cape Winelands, past mountains, and into the Karoo, before returning home. In addition to these marvels, you’ll also find a collection of over 2,000 miniature cars, some of which are dinky toys from the 1930s. These dinky toys, gifted by the actor Limpie Basson, hold a special place in the museum’s offerings and are among the most valuable exhibits.
Interesting Facts
- The museum’s collection includes over 2,000 miniature cars, some of which are valuable dinky toys from the 1930s.
- The museum features intricate and detailed exhibits, from a matchbox-sized 1920s kitchen to a stunning replica of the Uitkyk Wine Estate farmhouse.
- One of the museum’s highlights is the lifelike 1:12 scale miniature of South Africa’s famous Blue Train, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece in Africa.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Tourist Experiences
Make a trip of it and visit some of the other recommended museums, tourist attractions and experiences in the area.
Conclusion
A visit to the Toy & Miniature Museum in Stellenbosch is like stepping into a portal of nostalgia and wonder. It's a place where the past meets the present, where detailed miniatures, antique toys, and cherished childhood memories are carefully preserved. The museum serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of toys and miniatures, reminding us that the simple joys of play are timeless.