Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, Johannesburg
Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, Johannesburg
Gillooly’s Farm, located in Bedfordview, Johannesburg, is a popular public park and nature reserve known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Spread over a significant area, this tranquil urban escape features lush lawns, tree-lined pathways, and a large dam, which is the centerpiece of the park. The farm is a haven for residents and visitors looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a peaceful environment.
One of the main attractions of Gillooly’s Farm is its picturesque setting, with the dam attracting a wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. The surrounding parklands provide ample space for activities like picnicking, fishing, and walking along the trails. The dam also serves as a focal point for water-based activities such as canoeing and boating. Many visitors also enjoy the scenic views of the nearby Bedfordview skyline and the Linksfield Ridge.
The farm is a favorite spot for families and fitness enthusiasts, with open spaces perfect for jogging, cycling, and playing. There is a children's playground, making it an ideal place for a family day out. On weekends, the park often becomes a social hub, with people enjoying the fresh air, having barbecues (braais), or simply relaxing.
The farm, which is situated in the east of Johannesburg in Bedfordview, was originally owned by James Gillooly. Gillooly sold the 44 hectare piece of land to the city council in 1944, and the council decided to name the park after him. Today the park is well known for its walking trails, birds, recreational areas and its wonderful restaurant.
Its hard to believe that a park so close to the city could be a popular bird viewing spot but the park has more than 50 bird species, including White-breasted Cormorant, Reed Cormorant, African Darter, Grey Heron, Cattle Egret, White Stork, Egyptian Goose, Yellow-billed Duck, House Sparrow and Cape Wagtail. If you are an avid bird lover or even just an aspiring bird watcher, Gilloolys is a definite must-see. But there is more, where there are birds there must be a source of food for them and at Gilloolys this comes in the form of a large man-made lake, which is also home to a number of fish species like the Common Carp, Blue Kurper and Sharptooth Catfish (Barbel).
Gillooly's Farm is close to main transport routes and is less than 15km from OR Tambo International Airport. And with something for every member of the family, it is well worth taking a day off from city life and go for a walk on the farm, reconnect with nature, and bond with your loved ones.
Gillooly's Farm is open every day except Sunday and entrance is free.
Facilities at Gillooly's Farm:
Picnic areas
Fishing spots (catch-and-release)
Children’s playground
Birdwatching
Walking and jogging trails
Restaurant on-site for light meals and refreshments
Contact details for Gillooly's Farm:
Phone: +27 (0)11 999 2964 (City Parks Department)
Address: Boeing Road West, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Gillooly’s Farm offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational space, making it a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a family outing, or a spot for outdoor fitness, this urban farm provides a refreshing retreat.
Accommodation Near Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, Johannesburg
Louhallas
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Edenvale
3.6km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgLouhallas provides self catering accommodation in Edenvale in Johannesburg's East Rand, Gauteng. Set in Central Edenvale, close to shopping centres, banks and a variety of other amenities. We offer 3 fully furnished self-catering cottages... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
President Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Edenvale
4.5km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgPresident Lodge offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Edenvale on the Johannesburg East Rand, Gauteng. President Lodge is a jewel of a guest house, within 10 minutes' drive from OR Tambo International Airport and close to major... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
3 Brothers B&B
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Edenvale
4.9km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, Johannesburg3 Brothers Bed and Breakfast is located in Edenvale on the East Rand of Johannesburg in Gauteng. 3 Brothers is situated in Edenvale, a quiet, tranquil and secure residential area. It's central and close to all major routes and business parks. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Forest Town Guest Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Forest Town
9.3km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgForest Town Guest Cottages situated in Forest Town in Johannesburg. These attractively and comfortably furnished villas are self-contained, separate and private, 1- and 2-bedroom villas to suit families, the business traveller and tourists. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Jack Rose
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
9.4km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgThe The Jack Rose offers the perfect Rosebank accommodation for business and leisure travellers. There are 56 huge rooms and apartments, the beds are comfortable, the WiFi is fast & free and the coffee is GOOD! This perfect location makes getting... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Acacia House Executive Suite
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Kelvin
9.5km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgAcacia House Executive Suite offers bed and breakfast and dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation in Kelvin, a tranquil suburb of Sandton, Johannesburg. An exclusive private suite, comprising accommodation for a single business professional or a couple. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Residency Jellicoe
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Johannesburg Area
9.5km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgLocated centrally in the affluent and upmarket area of Rosebank, The Residency Jellicoe offers our valued guests the option of three different apartment types: A hotel room, a one-bedroom apartment, or a two-bedroom apartment, allowing for the... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Marle' Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Alberton, East Rand
10km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgMarle' Lodge has 11 double en-suite rooms all beautifully finished in matching African theme. Two of the rooms have an inter-leading door to cater for families who wish to stay together. All rooms have DStv. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Afrique Boutique Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Boksburg
11.9km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, JohannesburgAfrique Boutique Hotel Oliver Tambo is situated in Boksburg on the Johannesburg East Rand in Gauteng. Afrique Boutique Hotel Oliver Tambo has 24 delightfully stylish and luxurious air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms and state of the art... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
7th Street Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Melville
12.1km from Gillooly's Farm - Bedforview, Johannesburg7th Street Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Melville, Johannesburg. With 13 luxury en suite rooms equipped with DSTV, Wifi internet access, heaters, hairdryers, fans, digital safes, coffee/tea facilities and bar fridges stocked... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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