Johannesburg neighbourhoods by bike

3 hours

Johannesburg neighbourhoods by bike
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Barnato High School

Learn about the controversial diamond dealer who left his fortunes including a school to the state instead of his family when he passed away. 

Barnato Park High school is closely linked to the early history of Johannesburg, and colourful randlord, Barney Barnato. This fascinating personality was born in the poor East End Jewish quarter of London. After reading and hearing about the Diamond Rush in Kimberley, he arrived in Cape Town to seek his fortune in South Africa, reputedly with £30 in his pocket. He amassed a fortune in the diamond town, and soon became a senior director of the renowned De Beer's Group.

The Purple House Cafe

Get around the OG Kota. It's undeniably an iconic street food and The Purple House Café doesn't disappoint. Come hungry. There are several other cafés on the same block all competing for the city’s thriving kota market.

Yeoville Synagogue 

Learn about the Jewish history tied to Yeoville. By the 1970s, it had a predominantly Jewish character, with a number of synagogues in the area and Jewish delicatessens and bakeries in the main business street. Harry Schwarz, a well known Jewish lawyer in Yeoville was a long-time political opposition leader against apartheid in South Africa, who eventually served as the South African Ambassador to the United States during the country's transition to majority rule.

Ellis Park

Ride by Ellis Park stadium home to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Learn about how the surrounding area avoided gentrification.  The first rugby world cup South Africa won was in 1995 and that was the first time Nelson Mandela lifted the trophy after being banned from international competitions.  We take you through the Ellis Park museum.

Urban Farm 

One of our favourite stops - Fuel your body with a deliciously fresh juice straight from an urban farm located in Maker's Valley. Meet the lady behind this urban farm initiative putting food on the table for many locals in need.  The people who live and work in Makers Valley are diverse in many ways including socio-economic status, ethnicity, and religion. Most residents are economically challenged, and many without employment. However, visible urban decay and associated social ills are balanced by pockets of vibrant business.

Victoria Yard

Victoria Yard is redefining the inner-city Joburg landscape. This expansive area offers something for both the local community and visitors.

 Visitors get to see the 'makers' in action working on their skills development, artisan studios, visual art and an expansive urban farm. 

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