1923–1929
A tennis court, an attempted golf course, touring cricket, a turf pitch and the Memorial Hall clubhouse began to shape the grounds.
Groot Drakenstein Games Club
The Valley’s Club. Since 1895.
Some things are worth keeping.
A club made by its members.
In 1895, cricket and hockey players began gathering in the Groot Drakenstein Valley. Early matches were played on farm fields; teams travelled to nearby towns by mule wagon.
The Forest Span.
In 1921, ten acres at Delta became the club’s home. Members spent their Saturdays clearing trees, levelling and preparing the ground. The lease cost ten shillings a year, with one enduring condition: cricket must be played.
1961–1965
Six-a-side cricket became a tradition, the club received its liquor licence and the swimming pool opened on 27 February 1965.
1974–1999
The first England tour in 1974, ownership of the grounds in 1977, the 1995 centenary and the naming of Pickstone Oval in 1999 mark the next chapters.
2007 and onwards
Clubhouse extensions and continuing improvements served a club that kept growing.
Cricket at heart
Touring sides, long-running fixtures and generations of players sustained an ethos: the game is greater than the result.
A new chapter
Our three padel courts opened in January 2026. The Multi-Sport Astro is under construction and opening soon. New facilities and improved operations preserve the sporting culture while opening fresh opportunities for the valley.
The people behind the place.
Explore today’s stewardship or read a story from the club’s past.
Our resident partners
Valley Dance & Movement, Rugby Tots and Winelands Guide bring more opportunities to our community.
Explore resident partners