The history of the Old Nick Village

One of the early pioneers who came to settle in Plettenberg Bay was William Newdigate. He brought out a team of artisans from England to help him develop his country estate. Amongst them was Aaron Toplis who built a large house on the farm Gansevallei ( the whole valley) from whence he farmed and traded with the residents in the area.


Aaron Toplis

In 1880 he built the Gansvlei General Dealers Store (now, the Old Nick Shop) and continued to trade until the 1960’s when the local population, who were the main

In 1978 Stuart and Janet Holding, weaver and potter respectively took over the lease and set up their studios in the old shop with a retail section selling their wares to passing travelers and holiday makers. Over the next 20 years they built up a reputation for quality and originality.

Always aware of the potential to expand into other areas of art and craft using the surrounding farm buildings, they jumped at the opportunity to buy the premises. In 1999 they began renovating, dividing the buildings to accommodate other studios and shops. They were awarded the Plettenberg Bay Aesthetics Award 2002 for the care and sensitivity with which they approach this task.
The various units are now leased to a number of independent creative people many of whom have their studios on the premises.

Old Nick Village continues to grow and is widely recognized as an important Centre for Fine Craftsmanship, Art and Design presenting some of the best in African and particularly South African creative work.