Observatory Area

Observatory, situated in the east of Johannesburg, is aptly named for the 35-hectare Observatory site situated on a hill in the area. The original Observatory, from 1903, was a meteorological institution. Today, it is an interactive science awareness facility. Offering tours, a forensic science lab aimed at school learners, a technical research and activity centre, and a computer lab. Situated on Gill Street in Observatory, the iconic landmark hosts the annual SAASTEC Conference, where science practitioners network and reflect to improve science. Built around this is the lovely, leafy suburb of Observatory.

Climate:

The average annual temperature is 20 °C, providing a moderate climate. In summer, however, the temperature can rise to up to 32°C. During winter, it can drop to an average low of 9 °C. Johannesburg has summer rains and thunderstorms due to its subtropical climate. 

Distance from Key Points:

• Oliver Tambo International Airport: 16 minutes (17.6 km) via the R24

• Sandton: 16 minutes (14.3 km) via de Villiers Graaff Motorway/M1.

• Johannesburg CBD: 11 minutes (5.2 km) via Albertina Sisulu Road.

• Pretoria: 43 minutes (56.9 km) via Ben Schoeman Freeway, Pretoria Main Road / N1.

Observatory has Yeoville to the west, Orange Grove to the north, Houghton, Bezuidenhout Valley, and Kensington to the south. And Cyrildene to its east.

Education 

Observatory has some of Johannesburg's most esteemed schools on its doorstep. Within 2.6 km, you will find Athlone Girls, Sacred Heart College, Queens High School and Boston City Campus, Linksfield Primary, Orange Grove Primary School, and the renowned King Edward VII.

Within a 10-kilometre radius are Reddam House Bedfordview, St. John's College, Jeppe Boys High School, and Jeppe High School for Girls. Slightly further, between 10 and 12 km from the Observatory, are Edenvale High School, Holy Rosary School, and St Andrews School for Girls.

Shopping in the area

The closest shopping centres include Eastgate Shopping Centre, Park Meadows Community, and Lifestyle Centre, which has 45 stores, including Food Lovers Market and Dischem. The more upmarket Bedford Centre has Woolworths and Pick n Pay. Eastgate Shopping Centre has Clicks and Checkers, as well as all the other major retailers. Eastgate is a super-regional shopping centre. Kensington's main streets are lined with vintage shops. There is also the Darras Centre in Kensington.

Medical and health facilities

Life Bedford Gardens Hospital is 10 minutes (5.4km) from the Observatory. Netcare Linksfield Hospital is 9 minutes and 4.6 km away. There are also various clinics and medical practitioners in the area and its surroundings.

Restaurants in the Observatory

Residents of Observatory can head to all the surrounding suburbs to enjoy the over 300 restaurants within a 5-kilometre radius. To mention a few well-known choices, you could head to Queen Street in Kensington for a coffee or delicious pizza and pasta.

Mozambik in Linksfield for seafood, or pop down to Cyrildene to delight in some Asian fare. The malls have Spur, Mugg, Bean, and Wimpy. Or, discover the local cafes and takeaways on your doorstep. There is also the bar and grill at the Observatory Golf Course, a popular choice. 

Attractions in the area. 

The Observatory Golf Course, which has been going since 1914, is a popular and challenging 18-hole inland course. It offers an enjoyable experience for golfers. There is also a bar and grill on-site, as well as a driving range. The driving range has grass tee-off areas and top-quality putting and chipping greens.

Observatory has beautiful views over the city on the eastern side and views of Bezuidenhout Valley. North views overlook Orange Grove and Sandton.

The property market in Observatory includes sectional title units in security complexes, apartments, townhouses, and freestanding family homes.