This upmarket area in Pretoria Old East is sought after for its spacious properties, easy access to main roads and peaceful character.
The suburb of Brooklyn in Pretoria was established as an upper-income neighbourhood in 1902. Even though many generations have since come and gone and many new developments have popped up, the neighbourhood has retained its original character and old-world flair.
Brooklyn is strategically located just east of the city centre and with its neighbouring suburbs – Waterkloof, Menlo Park, Hatfield, Bailey's Muckleneuk, Nieuw Muckleneuk and Groenkloof – forms the area known as the Old East. These suburbs are highly sought-after not only because of their convenient and quick access to main roads, such as Duncan Street, Lynnwood Road, Atterbury Road, Justice Mahomed Street (previously Charles Street) and the N1 highway, but also because of the peaceful atmosphere in its jacaranda-lined residential area.
“Brooklyn has beautiful large and spacious properties,” says resident, Faye Blenkinsop. Another resident, Carlize van Aswegen, says the combination of modern architectural styles and the timeless elegance of the Victorian and Edwardian eras is especially appealing. Brooks House, for example, represents the Cape Dutch architectural style.
According to some sources, the original homestead was built by James Brooks after he purchased land that would eventually form part of the suburb in 1886. Brooks was involved in the layout of this new township.
The well-known Brooklyn Mall has served residents of the area since 1989 and, with the adjoining Brooklyn Square, offers comprehensive shopping facilities, exclusive boutiques, a variety of coffee shops and restaurants as well as Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau movie theatres.
Brooklyn is also home to Pretoria Boys High School. Many of Pretoria’s top schools are located within a 5km radius of the suburb, such as Brooklyn Primary School, Laerskool Pretoria Oos, Pretoria High School for Girls, Menlo Park High School, Crawford College Pretoria and TuksSport High School. The University of Pretoria (Tukkies) is 2km away from Brooklyn and the Unisa main campus is about 5km away.
The suburb appeals to the business sector as well and has many legal, financial and medical firms. There are no less than seven large hospitals within a 10km radius of the Brooklyn circle.
Brooklyn and surrounds boast many beautiful parks where residents can enjoy the lovely scenery and some fresh air. People aspiring to make this affluent neighbourhood their home have various options – from swanky upmarket apartments and comfy townhouses, to charming old-fashioned family homes and stately residences that can easily accommodate large families.
Brooklyn is incredibly beautiful in springtime when the jacarandas are in full bloom.
-Marie Willemse, resident.
Dine out in Brooklyn, Pretoria:
- Kream Restaurant: for a delicious and elegant meal out
- Geet Indian Restaurant: for fantastic Indian cuisine
- Moo Moo Wine Bar and Grill: for friendly and tasty breakfast, lunch or dinner
- Capeesh Restaurant: for mouth-watering Italian cuisine
Things to do in and around Brooklyn:
- Visit the Van Wouw Museum at the University of Pretoria’s Old Arts Building.
- Play a round of golf at the Pretoria Country Club.
- Enjoy a family outing to the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary.
- Watch a musical performance at the Brooklyn Theatre.
Where to stay in Brooklyn, Pretoria:
- Osborne House
- 314 On Clark Guest House
- Brooklyn Manor
- Brooks Cottage
- About Guest Lodge
Why we love Brooklyn Mall and Brooklyn Square
Offering approximately 220 specialist retail stores and an assortment of restaurants and coffee bars, Brooklyn Mall and Brooklyn Square have something for everyone.
If it’s entertainment you’re looking for, there are nine cinemas, which present the latest blockbusters, as well as five Cinema Nouveau theatres. The centre also hosts regular events that attract visitors from around Gauteng.
Brooklyn Mall and Brooklyn Square are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 7pm, and Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 9am to 5pm.
Find out more at brooklynmall.co.za.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
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