The quaint town of Richmond is nestled along the N1, positioned between the Northern Cape villages of Hanover and Victoria West. Its residents don’t view it as a destination, but rather as a way of life, and there's an undeniable charm to the town that draws people in. Located in the heart of the central Karoo, Richmond is fondly referred to by its residents as the "world's best-developed desert." It is often promoted as being halfway between Cape Town and Johannesburg, though at least three other towns—Beaufort West, Hanover, and even Colesberg—claim this same distinction. Nonetheless, Richmond stands out as a particularly picturesque town, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. It sees itself as a peaceful retreat, ideal for city dwellers who wish to own a "dorp huis," a trend among those from Gauteng and Cape Town in similar towns. Unlike most towns, Richmond's focal point is its market square, not the church. It also boasts a unique and imaginative layout, as it is built along a river, departing from the traditional grid pattern of many small towns. The town is dotted with Edwardian and Victorian Karoo-style houses with charming verandahs, inviting visitors to linger. Many do, whether staying in town or on nearby farms, as it’s the local farmers—about 30 families—that sustain Richmond’s economy. Tourists, too, contribute to the town’s vibrancy, as they stop off the N1, which doesn't run directly through Richmond but requires a detour, unlike in Beaufort West. Richmond offers a few restaurants and plenty of accommodation options. Its growing annual book festival, which now includes a film section called Richmond Filums, has become a major draw. The festival is organized by the same couple behind the revival of the Apollo Theatre in nearby Victoria West, further enhancing the town’s appeal.
