Bellville is situated exactly 12 miles from Cape Town city centre and was originally called "12 Mile Stone", it was renamed Bellville in 1861, after the surveyor general Charles Bell. The suburb is central, situated close to the airport, various golf courses, wine routes and shopping complexes, including Tyger Valley center.
Bellville has a thriving business sector and provides the setting for many events at the Bellville Velodrome, such as indoor cycling events, concerts, equestrian shows and festivals. The Northern Suburbs provide an excellent base from which to explore the Cape Peninsula, good quality and affordable accommodation, excellent restaurants and close to some of the best wine estates.