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How do you get there? Skip the highway drive and take the Gautrain from Joburg to Hatfield; it's a pleasant and safe journey that's just under an hour. Once there, you'll find this underrated suburb is well worth exploring and full of surprises. Whether historical landmarks, contemporary art or natural splendour are on your radar, there's plenty to see and do in a day with the Hatfield Gautrain station as your springboard.
Pretoria's student district
The University of Pretoria campus was established in Hatfield, east of the Pretoria City Centre, in 1910. It steadily grew during the mid-20th century to become one of the biggest campuses in the country and academia still dominates life here. The area has seen huge development in recent years and on almost every corner is a new high-rise student residence, some of which have become major landmarks with their colourful embellishments and distinctive modern architecture.
While much of the university campus is out of bounds to visitors, the university's impressive Javett-UP Art Centre is open to all and is worth a day trip in itself. Bordering Hatfield to the north and west is leafy Arcadia, an old-fashioned suburb whose wide streets are lined with grand embassies and beautiful jacaranda trees, and is home to the historic Union Buildings, the official office of the president.
Getting around from Hatfield Station
You can easily reach the centre of Hatfield and the university campus on foot from the Gautrain station. Make sure to keep near the university as this will ensure your safety. The Union Buildings are a longer walk (about 45 minutes), although on weekdays you can take advantage of the Arcadia Gautrain Gaubus and Midibus. From Hatfield station, Gautrain buses also link up on weekdays with the more distant leafy suburbs of Brooklyn, Lynnwood and Menlyn. Find the route info and timetables here.1. Art museums
If South African art is your thing, you can easily make a day of exploring these excellent art museums featuring world-renowned pieces.JAVETT-UP ART CENTRE
Javett-UP hosts an expansive selection of modern and contemporary South African art, some of it on loan from major private collections, complemented by stunningly curated temporary exhibitions. On show is a who’s who of South African art greats, including works by the likes of William Kentridge, Mary Sibande, Sam Nhlengethwa, Gerard Sekoto, Zanele Muholi, Alexis Preller, George Pemba and Penny Siopis.
Among the centre's many large-scale signature works are Alexis Preller’s formidable Discovery frieze and a magnificent tapestry from 2014 by Keiskamma Art Project. Styled after Picasso's Guernica it details the extraordinary pain and devastation wrought across the Eastern Cape during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Javett-UP also celebrates Africa's ancient art history in the high-tech Gold of Africa wing which has provided a spectacular home for the iconic gold rhino, leopard and other priceless treasures from the precious Mapungubwe Collection, as well as a glittering exhibition of intricate gold decorations and accessories from West Africa. Find out more about visiting the Javett-UP Art Centre here.
UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA MUSEUM GALLERIES
The Van Tilburg Art Collection Gallery in the Old Arts Building (a magnificent historical sandstone building with a distinctive clock tower) exhibits 17th- to 20th-century Dutch masterpieces and historical furniture. The Sculpture Gallery in the impressive Old Merensky Building, also known as the Eduardo Villa Museum, houses more than 200 classic and modern sculptures. Beyond the gallery walls, the university's Sculpture Route features work by distinguished South African artists, including Isaac Seoka, Angus Taylor and Anton Smit. The shorter route is about a 30-minute walk and is wheelchair friendly, while the extended route is around an hour and a half. Find out about admission and tour fees here.
How to get there: On weekdays take the H1 Brooklyn Gautrain Midibus and get off at the second stop on the corner of Lynnwood and University roads. The Javett-UP Art Centre is located on Lynnwood Road (close to the Roper Street entrance to the University of Pretoria campus) just over 2km from the Hatfield Gautrain station.
PRETORIA ART MUSEUM
How to get there: Take the H3 Arcadia Gautrain Midibus (weekdays only) and get off at the stop at the corner of Park and Wessels streets in front of the museum.
2. Historical sightseeing
In 1994 Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first democratic president, was inaugurated here and in December 2013, upon Mandela’s death, his body lay in state here. Though you cannot enter the buildings you can admire them from the outside, as well as the towering nine-metre bronze statue of Nelson Mandela that stands in front. You can also visit the amphitheatre and stand where Mandela once stood many a time.
How to get there: Take the H3 Arcadia Gautrain Midibus (weekdays only) and get off at the Union Buildings stop.
3. Nature in the North
Pretoria doesn't disappoint with its sprawling gardens, pristine hiking trails and fabulous natural gems hidden between the suburbs. Whether you are a nature lover or not, there is always something to appreciate about escaping the concrete jungle. Listed here in order from closest to farthest from the station:
MAGNOLIA DELL: 3.2KM
While not being on many people’s radar, even those in the area… older Pretorians know that Magnolia Dell is one of the few well-kept parks still left in the heart of Hatfield. Huckleberry’s, established in 1994, as "the café in the park" provides a cup of coffee and well-priced breakfast while you take in the weeping willows and Intiem’s love bridge. This is an oldie, but a goodie. A direct route via Uber is quickest and recommended for the area.
PRETORIA NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN AND SANBI'S NATIONAL HERBARIUM: 5.3KM
Where can you access a Madagascan forest, a bat walk, a dassie trail and a chance to experience a warmer climate under an hour’s drive from Johannesburg? For these reasons (and more, like wheelchair paths and a profusion of bird life) Pretoria National Botanical Garden in Brummeria is well worth a day trip.
The tree route is an opportunity to learn more about 50 indigenous trees, while the 6.4ha grassland boasts more than 300 plant species. Look out for the beautifully painted huts in Ndebele designs; around them medicinal plants are the focus – and there is fascinating information to be learnt about the uses of these plants. If you find yourself hungry, there are two restaurants in the garden. The Milkplum restaurant has great lunch fare for the whole family to enjoy. Find out what else to look out for on your visit here.
The garden is also the administrative hub for all of SANBI – the South African National Biodiversity Institute – and home to the National Herbarium. Open by appointment, the Herbarium is a site of profound significance that holds 1.3 million preserved plant specimens, some more than 200 years old. This remarkable collection serves as a living archive of South Africa's diverse flora and rich botanical heritage. Here too, you can visit the historic Mary Gunn Library and browse the Africana and Rare Antiquarian Book Collection. Email national.herbarium@sanbi.org.za to make an appointment.
FAERIE GLEN NATURE RESERVE: 7.1KM
Bordering the suburb of Faerie Glen in the east of Pretoria, Faerie Glen Nature Reserve is a pristine respite from its built-up surrounds. With wildlife like impala and zebra, and smaller mammals including mongooses, hares and porcupines, there is certainly much to take in. Including the scenic views out over the city, which make this reserve ideal for urban hiking. There are three trails ranging from a 2.3km loop to a more challenging 4.3km route.
WOLWESPRUIT BIKE & TRAIL PARK: 14KM
Located in Erasmuskloof, this divine forest-like terrain allows you stunning lookouts from high vantage points and is only a 15-20 minute Uber ride away from Hatfield. The MTB and hiking trails, accessible with a day pass, can make for the most exhilarating weekend activity, with trails for running and walking spanning up to 10km. The "spruit" or river running through the area provides a refreshing soundtrack to your nature experience and a flow of crisp, clean air to refresh your mind after a long week.
After your hike, to satisfy post-exercise cravings, there is PLTFRM for your everyday affordable meals and cocktail specials, or Boma for more niche cuisine and a sophisticated spoil. For an additional activity or snack, there is Create Wolwespruit as well, where you can paint and decorate pottery while still being immersed in the greenery.
3. Where to eat
If a picnic is what you want, look no further than the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. However, if you are in the mood for a good cup of roasted coffee or a sparkling cocktail, then the options are plenty. Lucky for you, Hatfield is student-central, so specials are always within reach. There are delightful local cafés, restaurants and good coffee spots within striking distance of the Hatfield Gautrain station to grab a cup to-go or settle in for a bite to eat.
THE "STUDENT" LIFE
As you make your way south of the Gautrain station, you will find all of the student hot-spots. Three blocks from the station's exit, on South Street next to the bizarrely decorated Duncan Court, is Bravo Pizzeria. A fun and laid-back restaurant with a small, sunny terrace for a bite of pizza from their wood-fired pizza oven.
To sink your teeth into the comforts of a mega-sized vetkoek, head to Burnett Street to the institution that is Vetkoek Maleis. Their tagline is that they'll beat your Ouma's vetkoeks any day, and many a student will testify to the takeaway joint's ability to revive them after a night out on the town. Insider's tip: the chicken surprise comes highly recommended. For more student fare, head to Uncle Faouzi, also on Burnett Street. It's a relaxed spot where students unpack their hubblies and fill up on flavourful wraps, kebabs, shawarmas and burgers. If you happen to be on Lynnwood near the infamous "strip", a place where student nightlife comes alive, head over to Varsity Bakery. It's been around since 1982 and forms the backbone of many a story over the years. Their burgers are legendary and their prices pocket-friendly.
Further up the road on Lynnwood towards Tuks, Aroma Coffee Roastery and its sister shop Aroma Gelato and Waffle Lounge are ever popular among both students and residents of the surrounding neighbourhoods. We can see why, thanks to their fresh coffee, delicious sandwiches and scoops of delectable gelato.
As you head even further, right across from Tuks campus, you’ll find Geek House Eatery. A spot famous for its different takes on a "crookie" (a croissant-cookie) and other desserts. Their food is hearty, their prices are affordable and their location is prime, with Javett-UP Art Centre just down the road within safe walking distance.
THE "ADULT" LIFE
Mustang Sally's Pub & Diner is a Hatfield institution. This retro, American-styled diner doesn't skimp on portion sizes and boasts the best burgers in town, with reasonable prices. If you dare, try one of their "fish bowls". Names like "hippie juice" and "holy water" are perhaps a bit misleading, but consider yourself warned.
The Village in Hazelwood is a mere 3.9 km from the station and is a hub of activity for all things happening in Pretoria. Definitely worth a stop after your explorations, this trendy street of eateries offers something for every palate from the morning to the evening in a relaxed yet vibey setting. Cheese Louise Social Club is perfect for exploring toppings of pizza you may not have encountered before, using their claim-to-fame San Marzano Napolitana sauce. Pantry by Marble here offers all the fan favourites from Joburg, with their deli being a possible stop on your way to any of the spots of nature in the north. The View Rooftop Bar offers an amazing sunset experience while sipping on wine, a Stella Artois, or an Aperol Spritz (please note: no under-23s after 17:00 on Fridays and Saturdays). The prices are savvy and the view priceless.
THE COLBYN VILLAGE LIFE
Four blocks walk from the station on the other side of Stanza Bopape Street is the Colbyn Village development on the corner of Thompson and Jan Shoba streets (previously Duncan), a lovely neighbourhood corner spot with a courtyard feel.
The village features NUSH Café which serves all-day breakfast and the tastiest Mexican bowls. We also recommend buying some of their freshly baked bread to take home. The Orchard offers a one-stop fresh-produce shop, so take a peek there too for some goods to take with you. Royal Danish homemade ice-cream parlour is a must, especially on a hot day. This mom-and-daughter duo make some of the best ice-cream in Pretoria and are always dreaming up interesting new flavours such as Royal Biscoff, Stroopwafel, Copenhagen and Mocha Almond Fudge. Vleishuys Bistro is a new addition to the village but has so far proved its mettle with the best quality cuts of beef and salivating burgers.
4. Further afield
KAROO CAFÉ
If you feel like a bit of a longer trek for some farm-style cuisine (although it’s really not all that long), then Karoo Café and its partnered Karoo Square are worth it. The breakfast, the lamb curry and the oxtail come highly recommended on top of their Souttert and Banana French Toast. There's a secondhand bookstore inside the café, while the square hosts local brands like Mmethisha Leather Craft Studio, Kleinstein Ceramics, Eliza van Dijk Pottery Studio and more. This square allows much for originality as many shops are those aimed at making custom garments, ceramics and jewellery. Hidden in the square is award-winning restaurant Fermier, a sustainable take on fine dining.
SAFARI GARDEN CENTRE
If your thumbs are greener than your hiking boots, you may prefer a visit to Safari Garden Centre, a plant nursery in Lynnwood. The thatched buildings and meandering pathways make for a lovely, winding walk, and when it comes to the selection of plants, what's on offer is extensive – from tropical orchids to desert-dwelling euphorbia.
How to use the Gautrain
Pay for your Gautrain trips using a contactless bank card by simply swiping in and out of the turnstiles at stations when you enter. Alternatively, buy a Swift card at the station and top it up with credit to pay for your trips. To use the Gaubus connections you will need a Gautrain card or a contactless bank card, as cash is not accepted on board. One Gautrain card or contactless bank card must be used per passenger. To use the Midibuses, passengers can purchase a Midibus Ticket at stations that offer Midibus services. The Midibus service does not use the Gautrain card or contactless bank cards.
The Hatfield Gautrain station opens at 05:09 and closes at 21:22. The first train departs the station at 05:24 (5:30 on weekends) and the last at 20:35 (20:30 on weekends). Trains leave every 10 minutes during weekday peak rush hours and every 20 minutes during off-peak hours. On weekends trains depart every 30 minutes. Buses arrive every 20 – 40 minutes from Mon – Fri, linked to the train service.
Download the Gautrain app for real-time updates on when the next Gautrain, Gaubus and Midibus is due or find the schedule online at gautrain.co.za.
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