Hyde Park, Sandton

One of Johannesburg’s most sought after addresses, Hyde Park is fairly reminiscent of its London namesake in one respect - the houses here have been built on a grand scale in a similar fashion to those that grace the surrounds of Hyde Park; they’re exclusive and certainly bring to mind the grandeur that is London. But that is where the similarity ends.

The suburb of Hyde Park lies wedged between Beyers Naude Drive and Rivonia Drive, north of Bompas Road in Dunkeld, its houses fortified by elevated walls and state-of-the-art security. The suburb of Hyde Park is heavily endowed with trees, but nothing on a par with the 4000 that line London’s Hyde Park. There may not be a lake either but what makes Hyde Park so attractive isn’t the undeniable beauty of the suburb; Hyde Park lies right in the midst of the northern suburbs - Sandton, Rosebank, Melrose Arch and of course Hyde Park Shopping Centre are all effortlessly reached from here, and it is this ease of access, and the size of the properties, that make it so sought after.

Despite its centrality, Hyde Park is sedate and tranquil, its winding streets largely devoid of heavy traffic, even if there are a few busy thoroughfares. Hyde Park Shopping Centre is home to some of the most prestigious speciality stores and a bevy of boutiques, whilst Sunday brunch at one of a selection of delis and restaurants is a way of life, not only for those who live in the suburb.