Royston Hall Historical Guesthouse

This gorgeous historical place in Umtentweni, KZN is very private and you can recharge your soul. The English Breakfast was amazing, the pool is gorgeous and the surroundings (birdlife) and the walk on the property created memories we will enjoy for years to come. The owner Ria, receptionist Veronica, caretaker and the kitchen staff were all professional and made us feel like family. We will book again.

The place was not clean, the cutlery was not clean, the curtains were old and full of mold stains and also full of dust. I couldn't stomach the breakfast because the place and cutlery were not clean. I wouldn't go back here. This place has potential though. It needs to be renovated. The views are great.

I stayed at Royston Hall while traveling for business, and it was an incredible experience. The service was excellent, the breakfast unbelievably good, and the rooms spotless and very comfortable. What stood out most was the hospitality – the hosts made me feel like part of the family. The views from the property are absolutely spectacular, and there are also two beautiful walking trails to enjoy. I’ll definitely be returning with my family, and I strongly encourage anyone looking for a peaceful breakaway to visit Royston Hall. It’s a hidden gem!

Ria and Roderick were incredibly warm and generous hosts. They shared some great stories about the history of their beautiful old homestead, which really added to the charm. The rooms were spacious, tastefully decorated, and super comfortable. My colleague Eaton even had a balcony with a view over a stunning indigenous forest – absolutely magical. The property is surrounded by lush native greenery, with amazing views over the river and lagoon from the top. There are also some lovely walking trails if you have time to explore. We were there for work, so didn’t get much time to relax, which was a pity – the whole place has a peaceful, old-world charm that makes you want to just unwind. The trees and plant life are spectacular

Beautiful 'Old Grand Dame' - reminiscent of grand plantation houses from long ago. They positioning alongside the river is great, with a special treat to wake up to the sound of a fish eagle calling.

Imagine two worlds: a grand old mansion with a spacious lounge overlooking the garden and huge river, and a cozy, majestic home filled with old furniture, beautiful paintings, and precious ornaments and beautiful people. Royston Hall transports you back in time, sharing stories of the beautiful ghosts and memories of the Umzimkulu River. It fosters a deep connection with cherished moments and music, revitalising the mind, body, and soul. A lovely swimming pool and many garden nooks for meditation await…The ‘kitchen fairies’ serve delicious breakfasts in the majestic dining room or on the patio. Nights are filled with silence and blissful sleep. The owners’ stories and assistance helped us re-story a special birthday celebration. Highly recommended to celebrate a special season. Bless you all, dogs and all! Thank you !

Not for us We had high hopes as we drove to the property. The Guesthouse is situated approximately 400 meters away from the road with a circuitous driveway leading to the entry. The foliage was amazing with monkeys flittering amongst the trees. Our room was as described but after 10 minutes in the room there was a heavy mildew odor in the air which seemed to get worse as our stay progressed. The room had no Air Conitioner as was advertised and the private bathroom was no more than a closet with a sliding door which had fallen off of its track, and I was unable to put it back on its track. The room did have a ceiling fan with 4 speeds, but the only ones which worked were either, high, or off. When we used it the sound was like an airplane taking off. We were supposed to spend two days here but we called it quits and left very early the next morning. I do not like leaving poor reviews but unfortunately Royston Hall did not work for us.

I loved, loved my stay with you.....such a beautiful, exquisite, exotic, historical and memorable stay/adventure......views breathtaking ....bird life abundant...very comfortable accommodation... Its a glorious place....go there and take in the atmosphere and character of Royston Hall..

I was completely blown away by the beauty of this guest house. I saw pictures of the place on Tripadvisor and Google Maps, however when I arrived, the green nature fully hugging the property and the picturesque view of the river facing the breakfast yard and the window from my room, it was 100 times better in person. Ria the owner, and Veronica were always ready to help, just very lovely people. The cherry on top is their English Breakfast spread in the morning. I can't recommend this place enough. I will surely be back.