Signal Hill separates the suburbs of Green Point and Sea Point from the City Bowl. One can access this view point of Lion's Head from town via Kloofnek road, or Noon Gun via Bo Kaap.
Originally named Lion's Rump- together with Lion's head the hill looks like a lion sphinx- Signal Hill has become a must do on the list of popular things to do in Cape Town.
On a sunny day, drive up - or walk up - this hill for a terrific view over the V&A Waterfront, the harbour, the rest of the city, Table Mountain, Devil's Peak, the Ocean, Robben Island. Or go there for a sundowner, just before the sun slips onto the Atlantic.
Signal Hill's name comes from a base signalling to the city when a new ship would arrive. The Noon Gun cannon on the Signal Hill navy base would be - and still is - shot at 12 o'clock to signal 12 o'clock, for people to set their watches.
On Signall hill today still the very old Capetonian tradition still takes place every day: the Noon Gun is fired, which is positioned just below the mountaintop. Every day at noon, a cannon-shot is fired to indicate 12h00 exactly.
If you're not in Cape Town and would like to view the noon gun for yourself, have a look at the Noon gun video .
The Noon Gun is accessible via the Bo-Kaap, Military Street.
Subscribe to our free newsletter for more information on tours and trips, activities, museums, and other 'Things to Do' in Cape Town and South Africa.
Signal Hill in Cape Town on Google Earth?
