Hurlingham Area Profile
Hurlingham is one of Sandton’s most prestigious and established "old-world" suburbs. Known for its low density and exceptionally large stands, a lush canopy of ancient trees, and quiet, winding streets, it offers a rare "country estate" feel just minutes away from the heart of the Sandton CBD.
It is a highly sought-after enclave for those seeking privacy and space without sacrificing proximity to Africa's business hub. Hurlingham is a relatively small suburb covering an area of less than three square kilometers.
Location: Hurlingham is perfectly positioned between Sandhurst and Sandringham, and between the Sandton and Randburg commercial centers. It is bordered by Winnie Mandela Drive (formerly William Nicol Drive) to the east (bordering Sandhurst and Parkmore) and Braam Fischer Drive to the west (adjacent to Hurlingham Manor and Willowild). The suburb stretches from Republic Road on its northern boundary down to the Braamfontein Spruit on its southern border, which separates it from the trendy suburbs of Craighall and Bordeaux.
History of Hurlingham
The history of Hurlingham is rooted in the 1938 proclamation of the suburb - developed from the Zandfontein farm. While much of the surrounding area was utilized for agriculture, Hurlingham was envisioned as an elite residential retreat. The suburb was named after the famous thousand-year old Hurlingham Club in London, a nod to the equestrian and polo lifestyle that originally defined the outskirts of Johannesburg.
In the mid-20th century, Hurlingham became the destination of choice for Johannesburg’s affluent families who wanted to build expansive manor-style homes. Unlike the newer, high-density developments in Sandton, Hurlingham has largely retained its original character, with many properties still sitting on stands of 2 000 to 4 000 square meters. Over the decades, it has evolved into a secure, boomed-off sanctuary that serves as a quiet counterpoint to the high-rise energy of nearby Sandton Central.
Hurlingham Lifestyle Offerings 🥂
Hurlingham offers an exclusive, secure lifestyle that caters to high-net-worth individuals and families who prioritize tranquillity and safety.
- The Spruit & Greenery: The suburb borders the Braamfontein Spruit, providing residents with direct access to Johannesburg’s premier "green artery" for mountain biking, trail running, and walking.
- Boomed Security: Hurlingham is largely a gated community, with strictly controlled access points managed by the Hurlingham Community Association (HCA), making it one of the safest suburbs in northern Johannesburg.
- Large-Scale Living: It is one of the few remaining suburbs where you can find traditional family homes with sprawling gardens, tennis courts, and swimming pools, all within a 5-minute drive of Sandton City.
Amenities In & Around Hurlingham
1. Schools
Hurlingham is surrounded by some of the most prestigious educational institutions in South Africa - within a 15 minute drive from Hurlingham:
- St Stithians College: Located right on the border, this world-renowned independent school offers a sprawling campus for both boys and girls from Grade RR to Grade 12 (Pre-school, Prep school, Boys College, and Girls College).
- Montrose Primary School: A top-performing public primary school located in neighbouring Parkmore.
- Nearby Private Schools: Residents are within easy reach of Brescia House, The Ridge, Crawford Benmore, Redhill and St David’s Marist Inanda. Kingsmead and Pridwin are also within proximity to Hurlingham.
- Sandton Crawford: Located in the CBD, offering a modern, high-academic curriculum.
- Public Schools include those in Bryanston, as well as Bordeaux Primary School. Hyde Park and Sandown High schools are nearest to Hurlingham
2. Shopping Centres
- Sandton City & Nelson Mandela Square: Just a 5-minute drive away, offering global luxury brands, high-end department stores, and world-class dining.
- Hyde Park Corner: Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, high-end boutiques, and one of the best bookstores in the country.
- Nicolway Bryanston: A convenient, upmarket center famous for its exceptional food offerings, including a flagship Woolworths and Food Lovers Market.
- Pick n Pay on Nicol: Arguably one of the most premium supermarkets in the country, located just up Winnie Mandela Drive.
3. Eateries and Coffeeshops
Because Hurlingham is a quiet residential pocket, residents often frequent the nearby culinary hubs of Parkmore and Hyde Park:
- George Lea Park (The Field Market): A popular community spot for local food and craft vendors.
- The Eatalian: An Italian café streetside in neighbouring Parkmore.
- Hyde Park Dining: From Tasha’s Le Parc to Social Kitchen & Bar, the options for sophisticated dining are endless.
- Nelson Mandela Square eateries: Big Mouth Sushi & Grill for delicious sushi; The Butcher Shop & Grill is a top South African steakhouse experience in a fine dining environment; Tasha's
- Pubs : The Brazen Head - A local favourite Irish pub in neighbouring Willowild for a more casual evening, and The Colony Arms in neighbouring Craighall.
4. Medical Facilities
- Sandton Medi-Clinic: Located on the border of Hurlingham, this is one of Johannesburg’s premier private hospitals, offering 24-hour emergency care and a wide range of world-class specialists.
- Mediclinic Morningside: a multidisciplinary specialist hospital. A prominent group of medical specialists complements the excellent facilities and professional nursing staff.
- NHC Medical Centre (Bryanston): A comprehensive facility offering GPs, dentists, and specialized wellness clinics nearby.
5. Security & Community
Security is a hallmark of the Hurlingham experience. The Hurlingham Community Association (HCA) is highly active, employing dedicated 24-hour tactical response teams and maintaining strictly controlled boomed gates. This proactive approach has made Hurlingham a "preferred" suburb for diplomatic staff and corporate executives.