Willem by Lombard,
There are so many different experiences, attractions, and activities that can only be found in Pretoria. From quirky museums and theatres to local train rides, there is something for everyone.
In this article, we explore only a small number of all the options available in Pretoria that you won`t find anywhere else.
Fairtree Atterbury Theatre
Situated in Lynnwood Bridge, the Atterbury Theatre has been in operation since 2013. This very modern theatre has been the home of some of the best theatrical performances in South Africa.
They have seating for an audience of 400 people, and there is a foyer where you can enjoy a drink or a cup of hot coffee. Some of our local artists calling Pretoria their home, regularly perform at the Atterbury Theatre. It is surrounded by lovely restaurants, so you do not even have to worry about something to eat before or after a show.
You can find out more on their Facebook or Instagram pages, or by contacting them on 012 942 5951.
Irene Village Mall
If you love the atmosphere of an open-air mall while feeling as if you are walking through a contemporary farm-style village, Irene Village Mall is the place for you. This quirky mall that is unique to Pretoria can be found at the corner of Nellmapius Drive and Van Ryneveld Avenue in Irene.
While walking through the mall, see if you can spot the cow lying on her back. Throughout the mall, you will be able to find quirky art and beautiful architecture that you won`t find anywhere else.
Visit their Instagram and Facebook profiles to get a better idea of what this lovely mall has to offer.
Rovos Rail
If you love old trains and have always dreamt of taking a trip on a luxury train, but could not afford a long train journey, Rovos Rail offers a fantastic alternative. It is called “The Events Train” and is a three-hour one-way circular trip around Pretoria, departing from their station in Capital Park.
This train trip can cater for 120 guests when serving a four-course sit-down lunch or dinner, or 250 guests where canapés are then served. Have you ever wondered about how to make your wedding special without settling for the usual dinner-and-dance hall venue? Rovos Rail can make your special day even more special and memorable.
You can find them on their Facebook or Instagram pages for more information. Consider them when planning your next year-end function or teambuilding event.
Pierneef`s Kraal
This former home of Jacobus Hendrik Pierneef, the world-famous landscape artist, is situated in Lynnwood Manor and was the inspiration for many of his prolific landscape paintings.
Today, Pierneef`s Kraal has a restaurant, gallery, and even guest rooms. More information is available on their Facebook and Instagram pages. For bookings at the restaurant, you can phone 060 778 3450.
Sammy Marks Museum
Situated on the Old Bronkhorstspruit Road in Donkerhoek, this beautiful Victorian estate offers house tours, bird walks, education programmes, Victorian picnics, a wedding chapel, and a tea garden.
Once the home of the South African industrialist Sammy Marks, this beautiful estate has been well maintained and even has most of the original items used by the Marks family inside the house.
Visit their Facebook and Instagram pages for more information. There is another separate Facebook page for the friends of the Sammy Marks Museum, for the more fanatical amongst us.
The Javett Art Centre
Have you ever watched films like Indiana Jones, or Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and thought to yourself how exciting it would be if you could just see some of those priceless artifacts for yourself? I have good news for you. The Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria is currently showcasing the Golden Rhinoceros of Mapungubwe, which is a medieval artifact that was discovered in 1933 by archeologists from the University of Pretoria on a royal grave on Mapungubwe Hill.
The Javett Art Centre is open to the public from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10:00 - 16:00, and is home to some of the most beautiful art South Africa has to offer. Find more information on their Instagram and Facebook pages.
In conclusion, to our international guests, I would say that South Africa is not just about game reserves and a visit to Robben Island. Pretoria has so many unique attractions, most not even mentioned here, that you absolutely have to see for yourself.
