The Knoll: The best-located accommodation for KwaZulu-Natal’s most iconic schoolboy rugby derby
Hilton vs Michaelhouse 2026: Match Dates & Venue
There are two derbies in 2026 — and the first one comes to Hilton:
- 1st Derby — Saturday, 2 May 2026 at Hilton College, College Avenue, Hilton, 3245 — kick-off 13:00
- 2nd Derby — later in the season at Michaelhouse, Balgowan
The Hilton vs Michaelhouse fixture is one of the oldest and most passionately followed schoolboy rugby rivalries in South Africa — a full day of matches across all age groups, from the youngest boys right through to the showpiece 1st XV clash. Thousands of supporters, Old Boys, and families travel to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands for this event every year.
If you’re making the trip for the May derby at Hilton, accommodation in Hilton village books out fast. Start planning now.
Stay at The Knoll — Right in Hilton Village
The Knoll is a beautiful boutique guesthouse situated in Hilton village — just minutes from Hilton College. For the May 2026 derby, there is no more convenient or charming place to base yourself for the weekend.
Set on a stunning Midlands property with gorgeous indigenous gardens and rolling views, The Knoll offers a range of self-contained accommodation options — perfectly suited to families, couples, Old Boys groups, and supporters travelling from out of town.
Accommodation Options at The Knoll
The Knoll offers a variety of units to suit different group sizes and needs:
- The Creamery: A spacious self-catering unit, ideal for families or small groups
- Groenkloof Rooms 1, 2, 3 & 4 : Well-appointed rooms with private facilities, perfect for couples or individuals
- The Library: A characterful, cosy unit with a unique atmosphere
- Foresters: A private, tranquil retreat set among beautiful indigenous trees
- Farriers: A well-appointed unit with easy access to the property’s shared spaces
- Stables Cottage: A charming self-contained cottage, ideal for a couple or small family
All units are available by prior arrangement. With multiple options on one property, The Knoll is also ideal for extended families or groups who want to stay together.
Why The Knoll is the Perfect Base for Hilton Rugby Weekend
- 📍 Steps from the action — situated in Hilton village, a short drive from Hilton College’s Gilfillan Field
- 🏡 Multiple units on one property — keep the group together without the hassle of different venues
- 🌿 Classic KZN Midlands setting — wake up to green hills and fresh Midlands air on match morning
- 🚗 Easy N3 highway access — stress-free arrival and departure for out-of-town visitors
- 🗓️ Stay the full weekend — arrive Friday, enjoy the full day of rugby Saturday, and take a relaxed Sunday morning before heading home
Book Early — Hilton Rugby Weekend Fills Up Fast
The 2 May 2026 derby is hosted at Hilton College, which means the entire village will be buzzing. Accommodation within walking or driving distance of the grounds is extremely limited.
The Knoll’s units are popular — don’t leave your booking too late.
📞 Contact The Knoll to check availability for the weekend of 1–3 May 2026.
🌐 Visit theknoll.co.za to book.
Getting There
Hilton College is at College Avenue, Hilton, 3245, KwaZulu-Natal — easily accessible off the N3 highway. From The Knoll, the college is just minutes away through the village.
About the Hilton vs Michaelhouse Rivalry
First played in 1904 at Hilton College, the Hilton vs Michaelhouse fixture is the oldest continuous schoolboy rugby rivalry in KwaZulu-Natal. The two schools — the only remaining full boarding schools in the province — meet twice a year in what is far more than a rugby match. It is a celebration of tradition, brotherhood, and the very best of Midlands schoolboy sport, drawing some of the largest crowds in South African schools rugby.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 1st Derby is on Saturday, 2 May 2026, at Hilton College. The 2nd Derby takes place later in the season at Michaelhouse in Balgowan.
Hilton College is on College Avenue, Hilton, 3245, KwaZulu-Natal — just off the N3 highway between Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands.
The Knoll in Hilton village is the closest and most convenient boutique guesthouse to Hilton College, offering a range of units for individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Visit theknoll.co.za or call directly to check availability and make a reservation.
Yes — with multiple self-contained units on the same property, The Knoll is ideal for extended families or groups of supporters travelling together.
The Knoll is boutique accommodation in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal. Booking is by prior arrangement. Visit theknoll.co.za for availability.
Pic credit: https://www.pinnacle-schools.com/2024/06/17/michaelhouse-hilton-results-150624/
