Ashton is one of the towns along Route 62. The concrete arch bridge B2666 and steam locomotive No. 2010 stand in the town as historical exhibits representing two distinct local features. Day hikes through local fynbos lead into the foothills surrounding Ashton. The options range from architectural and railway history to the surrounding landscape.

A bridge with clearly defined dimensions

The B2666 is a 113 m long, single-span bowstring arch bridge over the Cogmans River in Ashton. Its arches rise 22 m above the roadway. The length and height refer to different measurements: 113 m refers to the bridge, while 22 m refers to how far the arches rise above the roadway. Ashton is known for its concrete bowstring arch bridge. The term “single-span” refers to a single span; “bowstring arch bridge” describes the structural form. Those interested in engineering can therefore understand the bridge not only by its location on the Cogmans River, but also by its specific dimensions and design. The combination of river, span and rising arches gives the structure a distinct technical character.

Locomotive No. 2010 and its service history

Steam locomotive No. 2010, of the Class 14 CR, stands beside the Langeberg Municipality offices on Main Road as a historical exhibit. It entered service in 1919 and was used on the Worcester–Mossel Bay route section until 1983. The number and class designation make clear which vehicle it is; the two years place its service in time. The named route section locates its service between Worcester and Mossel Bay. Unlike the bridge, the focus here is not on the dimensions of a structure, but on the identity and service period of a specific vehicle. Its location on Main Road places the historical exhibit in Ashton.

Fynbos walks in the surrounding area

The day hikes pass through local fynbos in the foothills surrounding Ashton. This is a nature activity in the surrounding area, not another attraction located in the town. This distinction in location helps with choosing the day’s activities: for the structure and railway exhibit, the focus is on Ashton itself; for fynbos, it is on the surrounding hills. If you are planning a hike, you can therefore treat it as a separate landscape-focused activity alongside the town’s attractions.

Information about tours and excursions

Platform 62 Information provides information and booking services in Ashton. It can help with tours and wine-estate offerings, as well as tractor and boat excursions. These options appeal to different interests: you can find out about wine offerings or ask about a tractor or boat tour. This provides an additional point of contact for travel planning alongside the town’s permanent attractions. For a specific preferred date, check the schedule and availability of the relevant offering. This makes it easier to choose an excursion that suits your interests and date.

For the broader travel overview: Cape Winelands.