Braamfontein is the oldest recognised suburb of the city of Johannesburg. Following the gold rush of the 1850s, Braamfontein became a central hub for business, sport and leisure. With the establishment of the South African School of Mining in 1895 (later to become the University of the Witwatersrand), Braamfontein cemented its status as a bustling inner city suburb. Today, "Braam" as it is affectionately known, is one of the city's top destinations for entertainment, retail, dining and loft-style living. From its many contemporary restaurants to its fabulous night life, Braamfontein offers an array of exciting activities. It is also undoubtedly the underground fashion hub of Johannesburg, often referred to as "sneaker town". You never quite know what you might find in this eclectic part of the city.

What Are You Looking For?

Shopping
Entertainment
Restaurants
Hotels and Accommodation
Schools
Municipal Services
Conference Venues
Jobs
Property 

Shopping

Braamfontein is quite unlike any other shopping destination in the city. There few malls and shopping centres here, but rather a collection of independent fashion stores, curio shops and artisanal markets. Braam is the ultimate shopping hub for fashion fundis, collectors and organic food lovers. 70 Juta Street is one of the area's top retail precincts. Here, you will find an ever-expanding number of pop-up shops and local fashion boutiques. If you're not one to follow the crowd, this is the place to do your fashion buying. The Neighbourgoods Market is also a favourite for farm fresh goods and handmade crafts. Overall, Braamfontein offers a truly unique shopping experience well worth exploring.

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Entertainment

Braamfontein boasts an equally vibrant daytime and nighttime entertainment scene. Whether you prefer a casual stroll around a weekend market or epic adventures under the cover of darkness, Braam offers an assortment of fun hangouts and entertainment activities. The suburb is also lauded for its arts and culture scene. Catch a theatre show at the magnificent Joburg Theatre or visit Constitution Hill to learn about our country's past. Braamfontein is a hive of activity over weekends, bringing a diverse mix of people together to celebrate life in all its glories. If you've ever imagined what a South African utopia looks like, Braam on a Saturday night would be it. People of all creeds, colours and orientations gather here to eat, drink and be merry. So, what are you waiting for? Get in on the Braamfontein party scene or you'll be missing out!

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Restaurants

From early morning coffee to the midnight munchies, Braamfontein's restaurant scene has got you covered. Thanks to its large student population and nearby business districts, the eateries here offer a wide variety of cuisines. Come and tuck into traditional South African shisanyama, Mediterranean fare or gourmet hot dogs at Braamfontein's top class restaurants. The area is also favoured as one of the best places to grab brunch on a Sunday morning. Think classic eggs Benedict, maple glazed bacon on sweet French toast and some of the best coffee in Joburg. Eating out in Braamfontein is a taste adventure you don't want to skip out on. Come hungry!

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Hotels & Accommodation

Braamfontein is a verified backpackers town. Come and find the best budget accommodation at one of its hotels, lodges or hostels. Once in Joburg offers you all three in one - as Joburg's only 'poshtel' it welcomes in students, tourists and adventurers of all kinds. You can share a room with friends or bunk with total strangers for the night. It's all about sparing your pocket money for great adventures around the city. Braam is also home to the great Bannister Hotel. After a long night of partying, this is the ideal inexpensive stay over. Plus there's free breakfast to be had in the morning! If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience, book yourself into a Braamfontein hotel or self-catering accommodation. There is no better way to soak up all that this corner of the city has to offer than by getting right into the thick of it.

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Schools

In spite of its relatively small size, Braamfontein suburb is home to many schools, universities and colleges. Located right in the centre of Braamfontein is the University of the Witwatersrand. This elite tertiary institution is one of the suburb's greatest landmarks and draw cards for students from around the country. There are also a number of private colleges located in the area, specialising in media studies, graphic design and marketing. The National School of the Arts is situated in the area as well, directly opposite the Joburg Theatre complex. The school offers a disciplined curriculum, combining practical arts studies with the national syllabus. Many talented visual artists, dancers, musicians and theatre makers have graduated from this top co-educational high school.

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Municipal Services

The City Council of Johannesburg offices are situated in Braamfontein, as is the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. Visit the various city government departments here for assistance with your water and electricity rates, service delivery, waste removal and road works. The Gauteng Department of Labour and the Provincial office for the Department of Home Affairs are also located in the area. The Provincial Head Office of the South African Police Service is located on Empire road, on the border between Braamfontein and Parktown.

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Conference Venues

Thanks to its central city location, Braamfontein is the ideal meeting place for large conferences and events. Thankfully, there are a few conference venues in the area, suited to hosting both small and large gatherings. Constitution Hill plays host to many corporate events, private functions and outdoor music festivals. Whether you’ are hosting a meeting, a seminar or talk, a cocktail reception or a banquet, there should be a space suited to your needs at Con Hill. Similarly, the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Parktonian All-Suite offers event rooms with a seating capacity of up to 450 people. So, if you're looking to hold an event in Joburg, look no further than Braamfontein's best conference venues.

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Jobs

Many of South Africa's major corporations have office spaces situated in Braamfontein, including Liberty Holdings Limited, JD Group, Sappi, Bidvest Bank and Hollard. The suburb offers a multitude of work opportunities across a range of fields. Being situated just north of the city centre makes its job market incredibly lucrative. There are numerous means of transport in and out of Braamfontein as well, meaning that workers can easily commute in from areas around the city. The Gautrain at Park Station brings in people from Sandton, Rosebank and Johannesburg East each day to work in Braamfontein.

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Property

Over recent years, Braamfontein has seen massive regeneration. As such, it has regained some of its former glory in terms of property and rentals. If you're on the lookout for a designer loft, this is the place to go house hunting. Many of the suburb's old buildings have been renovated into lush apartment complexes, perfect for young professionals. New Braamfontein Lofts is an urban development making big waves on the property scene. Offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of the inner city, this artisanal residential complex combines the best of industrial-style architecture with contemporary comfort. But don't imagine that only 'cool kids' or artists call Braamfontein home. All are welcome here, so come and find your forever home.

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What Is It?

Travel back in time with Reefsteamers as they take you on a scenic train trip to the historic town of Magaliesburg. This is an absolute must if you've never been! Your steam-powered time machine will meet you at Johannesburg Park Station where you can hop aboard for an experience of a lifetime. There is nothing more relaxing than watching the landscape transform from city to countryside while listening to the choo-choo of the engine and feeling the cool breeze in your hair. While on board, enjoy delicious treats from their Food Truck on Rails and don’t forget to take a memento home with you from the memorabilia table.

When Is It?

Saturday, 04 August 2018 from 09:00 - 18:00.

Where Is It?

Johannesburg Park Station, Rissik Street, CBD, Johannesburg. Click here for Google Maps.

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost between R250 - R950. Click here for the booking form and more information on prices.

For More Information

For more information, visit Reefsteamers website at www.reefsteamers.com. Also, visit their Facebook page to keep up-to-date with the upcoming steam train trips.