Dotted with schools, shopping malls and green spaces, Bedfordview is an affluent neighbourhood built on the former Elandsfontein Farm. It makes a good base for visiting the sights of Johannesburg, including the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, which are just a short drive away.
Things to do in Bedfordview
Bedfordview was named following a competition in 1926 and suggested by a local girl for its beautiful views on offer from Sir George Herbert Farrar’s farm called “Bedford”. This historic farm is now encompassed by the suburb of St Andrews, and some of its original features are still visible within the grounds of St Andrews’ School.
Shopping enthusiasts can go on a shopping spree at Eastgate Shopping Centre, once the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s located in the neighbourhood of Bedford Gardens and home to large department stores and fashion boutiques, as well as cinemas and a piazza dining precinct.
Bedfordview is within easy access of Johannesburg’s sights, best explored on the double-decker red tourist buses. They offer hop-on/hop-off services, stopping at all the major attractions and museums, including the option to tour the famous township of Soweto.
After experiencing the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg, spend an afternoon enjoying the tranquillity of Gillooly’s Farm in the north of Bedfordview. It’s home to more than 50 species of birds, including African darters, Egyptian goose and white-breasted cormorants, with walking trails winding around its lake and plenty of spots to stop for a traditional South African braai.
Getting around Bedfordview
Bedfordview is located 15 minutes’ drive northeast of Johannesburg’s city centre and connected by regular bus services. It lies en route to O.R. Tambo International Airport, the main gateway to South Africa, which is just 10 minutes’ drive to the east.