Categories > Guides and Tips
The Definitive Guide to Gillooly’s Farm for Outdoor Enthusiasts
If there’s one place in Johannesburg that can turn a regular Sunday into an adventure, it’s Gillooly’s Farm.
I remember the first time I stumbled upon this hidden gem while looking for a quiet spot to read. Instead, I found myself joining a spontaneous picnic with a group of friendly locals, complete with laughter and shared stories.
That day, I realised Gillooly’s Farm is a community hub where every visit promises something new. So, pack your picnic basket and let’s explore what makes this place so special!
Things to Know
Address: 47 Boeing W Rd, Bedfordview
Phone: +27 860 543 000
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 7 AM to 7 PM
Admission Fee:
- Free
How to Get to Gillooly’s Farm
By Taxi: To get to Gillooly’s Farm, inform the driver to drop you off at Bedfordview Golf Course. The base fare will be R70, with an additional charge of R9.50 per kilometre.
By Car: You can park your car at the designated parking area located at the main entrance on Boeing West Road.
What to Do and See in Gillooly’s Farm
Enjoy a relaxing picnic and use the braai facilities
Media from johannesburginyourpocket
Picnic by the farm’s scenic dam is a wonderful experience because of the serene setting and well-placed facilities. The picnic spots allow you to relax in the lush greenery and enjoy the open skies.
We brought our own food and settled down for a leisurely afternoon. The braai area was a great addition, perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy a barbecue.
Explore the scenic walking trails around the farm
Media from miss_italia85
I decided to take on the steep koppie walk along Linksfield Ridge, and it was quite an adventure. The trail is definitely for fit and energetic visitors, as the climb is steep and requires a good amount of energy.
On a clear day, the views are absolutely stunning. You can see as far as the Magaliesberg Mountains and maybe even beyond. The walk can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace.
Starting off in the Ekurhuleni Municipality, this trail at Gillooly’s Farm is perfect for those looking to enjoy some breathtaking scenery and get a good workout.
Spot a variety of bird species
Media from carika1410
The farm is a fantastic spot for bird-watching enthusiasts. With over 50 bird species to spot, I was thrilled to see a variety of birds, including the majestic white stork and the elegant white-breasted cormorant.
The African darter and grey heron were also among my favourites, gracefully moving about.
Take your furry friends for a walk
Media from tazzyl01
If you’re looking for a great place to walk your dog, the farm is a fantastic choice. With its ample space and scenic walking routes, it’s a refreshing change from the usual dog parks in the city.
When I brought my pup here, we both enjoyed the variety of landscapes and the wide-open areas perfect for a good run. The greenery and lake views make it a pleasant experience for both pets and their owners.
Let your kids enjoy the recreational areas designed for them
Media from cegragraceenterprise
The farm is a wonderful spot for families with kids, thanks to its well-designed recreational areas. The playgrounds are perfect for little ones to burn off energy and have fun.
I loved seeing the kids enjoy the slides and swings and make new friends along the way.
Find a shady spot to read a book or simply relax
Media from secretjoburg
One of the best things to do at the farm is find a shady spot to relax with a good book. The natural light and tranquil environment make it an ideal setting for reading.
Join the park run
Media from go.globalnations_
Every Saturday at 8 am, the farm hosts a popular park run, drawing in around 500 enthusiasts. It’s a flat run over grass trail conditions, so you can take it at your own pace—even walk the course if you prefer.
Arrange a teambuilding activity
Media from wits_khomananivatsonga
When planning a teambuilding activity in Johannesburg, the farm is a great option. It offers ample space for various activities, and you can arrange for Ksmart to host their well-structured team-building programs at the farm.
I took my team here for a teambuilding day, and let me tell you, it was a blast. We kicked off the morning with fresh coffee and pastries, gearing up for the day ahead.
Our ice-breaking session set a positive tone for the day. We had a fun Potjiekos competition where teams exchanged ingredients to make different dishes from around the world.
