The Fairlawns was established in January 1998, on the property once belonging to The Little Brenthurst Trust of Oppenheimer fame. The present Windsor, Empire, French Provencial and African suites are built on the foundations of the old stables and cow shed. The property was once adjacent to the Ernest Ullman Park, with a historic cottage belonging to the parents -in- law of Ernest Ullman (a famous South African sculptor).

The Fairlawns was the brainchild of John & Anna Thacker, the owners, who wanted to create 'something really special' and out of the ordinary in the mould of a Relais and Chateau Hotel. The architecture is in the Palladium style which is reminiscent of 18th Century Europe. Apart from the beautiful surroundings and warm, homely ambience that is unerringly remarked upon, the emphasis is on personal service. Staff are regularly advised that 'going the extra mile' is a requirement at The Fairlawns, and wherever humanly possible, every effort is made to accommodate a guest's wishes.