Historic Pig and Whistle Inn, Bathurst

02/06/2026

The Bathurst Bookfair is full of interesting events all weekend long.

Bring your teens along for this unique workshop and let them explore their own creativity.

Teen Novel Creative Writing Workshop with Aradan Yazbek - Bathurst Bookfair 2026

Schedule
Morning Session: 09:00 – 10:30
Afternoon Session: to be arranged
Venue: Historic Pig and Whistle Inn, Bathurst
Cost: Free | All materials provided
Ages: 12-18

Workshop Overview:
Many aspiring writers are stuck at the beginning: a thousand ideas, but not a single finished manuscript. This workshop is designed to break that cycle.

Facilitated by teen author Aradan Yazbek, participants will move from concept to completion. Through storytelling fundamentals, creative prompts, and guided writing sessions, you will leave with a finished story in hand—proof that your projects are within reach.

“Beautiful beginnings are common, but finished stories are rare.”

Workshop Format
Lecture: 15 min
Writing Session I: 30 min
Break: 15 min
Writing Session II: 30 min
Live Feedback: 30 min
(Optional Q&A to follow)

About the Facilitator
Aradan Yazbek is a teenage writer with three novels, over twenty short stories, and several poems to his name. A StoryCon finalist previously published by ZamaShorts and Aerial Publishing, Aradan is dedicated to sharing stories that entertain, challenge, and inspire.

Bookings:
Whatsapp Suné on: 084 097 5002

02/06/2026

Have you seen the amazing program of events for this weekends Bathurst Bookfair!

There are so many fun activities for young and old!

02/06/2026

Reviews like this one from Frederick P. make us smile! Thank you so much. 🐷🤍

We work hard to make sure everyone who comes through our doors feels welcome and looked after, so if you're looking for a relaxed meal with good food and friendly service, you know where to find us!

📍 Pig & Whistle Inn, 268 Kowie Road, Bathurst
🌐 [email protected]
📞 046 625 0673

02/06/2026

It's almost time for the Bathurst Bookfair!

With so many fun events happening in Bathurst Village, it's certainly the place to be this weekend.

The Bathurst Bookfair: A Village of Stories Awaits
The countdown to the Bathurst Bookfair 2026 has officially begun! From June 5th to 7th, join us as we transform our village into a living "Village of Stories."

Whether you’re a lifelong bibliophile, a seeker of local history, or looking for a weekend of family-friendly wonder, we have something curated just for you. Get ready for an immersive experience featuring:

Literary Treasures: Meet authors, browse independent bookstalls, and discover your next favourite read.

Creative Growth: Take part in hands-on workshops, from creative writing and poetry to calligraphy and craft.

Family Fun: A dedicated space for the next generation of readers at The Kidz Nook.

Village Atmosphere: Enjoy live music, comedy, food, shopping and performances across our amazing venues across the whole of Bathurst. The Big Pineapple | Historic Pig and Whistle Inn, | The Stables | The Village Green , | The Ploughman Pub | The Little Bistro | The Corner Gallery | The Bathurst Arms | Blue Bug Hub | The Workshop arts and crafts gallery | Pink Lady Milkshake Parlour | The Lucky Bean Cafe | Curiosity Shoppe | Interesting Things | Little Theatre on the Green | Settlers Square

Local Heritage: Take a step back in time with our history talks and heritage walks, and so much more BATHURST AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM.

Start planning your weekend now and get ready to experience the magic of Bathurst. Save the Date: June 5th – 7th, 2026. For all inquiries, feel free to reach out to us:
Email: [email protected] | WhatsApp: Jason (083 544 8154) or Sune (084 097 5002)

01/06/2026

Winter in Bathurst Village is going to be really something special this year! 🎄

We've got book lovers descending on the village for the Bathurst Bookfair, the magical solstice bagpiper tradition up at the Toposcope, a fundraising auction at the Agricultural Museum and of course our beloved Christmas in July 2026.

If you haven't made plans to visit Bathurst this winter, now is the time!

Bathurst, there is always something to do. 🐷

📍 268 Kowie Road, Bathurst
📞 046 625 0673

27/05/2026

Karaoke is back in the pub - Friday 29 May!

Whether you’re ready to take the mic or just keen to sit back, enjoy a drink, and just cheer everyone on, it’s all part of the fun.

See you at the Pig & Whistle pub from 7pm.

26/05/2026

Thank you so much Meera H. for the kind words, we really do appreciate it! 🐷🤍

The Pig and Whistle is what it is, a proper old pub with nearly 200 years of history, good food and a relaxed atmosphere where you can pop in anytime.

If you're passing through Bathurst Village, come say hello! 🍺

📍 268 Kowie Road, Bathurst
📞 046 625 0673

25/05/2026

If you've been looking for a reason to visit Bathurst, here are about four of them!

We've got a fun few months ahead with the Bathurst Bookfair, the Solstice Bagpiper tradition up at the Toposcope, a cosy Christmas in July and the always brilliant Bathurst Country Affair.

Bathurst is one of those places where there is always something going on and always a reason to come back.

We hope to see you here soon. 🐷

📍 Pig & Whistle Inn, 268 Kowie Road
🌐 [email protected]

22/05/2026

This weekend in Bathurst starts with a whole lot of fun!

Tonight, from 7 PM, we are turning up the fun with our famous Stock Market Party. Watch as the drink prices rise and fall.

Can you keep up and make it through the night without missing the deal of the evening… or buying a round at peak price? 👀

And if tonight doesn’t satisfy your social battery, the entertainment doesn’t stop there.

With live music and village vibes, there’s plenty more to look forward to all weekend long.

See you soon🐷

21/05/2026

Did you know the Historic Pig and Whistle Inn has been welcoming travellers since 1825?

Originally built beside a blacksmith’s forge, the inn became a famous stop for wagon travellers journeying through Bathurst, offering hospitality, provisions, and apparently even tooth extractions for the brave enough.

Almost 200 years later, the stories, laughter, and cold drinks are still going strong.
Some things never change. 🍺

Want to read a little more about the history of the Pig & Whistle?
Read more here: https://visiteasterncape.co.za/listings/the-historic-pig-and-whistle/