It's hard to believe Kempton Park started out on the location of two farms. The area is now a bustling residential hub and the centre of commerce, trade, and industry. With this growth, this area has also become known for its convenience, good value-for-money properties, and family-friendly appeal. And as a resident, you'll be able to enjoy a wealth of amenities and activities at your fingertips. Savas Nicolaides, Principal of Century 21 East Rand, shares his insight on the area and things you can do for fun after work and on the weekend.
Inside look at Kempton Park
According to Nicolaides, the area has become one of the fastest-growing urban areas on the East Rand. "Kempton Park is centrally located in Gauteng, with close proximity to the highway that links north to south Gauteng and beyond. This makes it an excellent option for commuters," he says.
As the area has seen significant development, career-driven and entrepreneurial individuals have also put down roots. "Kempton Park is famous for being home to O.R. Tambo International Airport, the biggest and busiest airport in Africa. Together with all the ancillary business that offspring from this hub, the area offers employment opportunities to thousands of people in Kempton Park. We have seen generations stay here for this very reason," shares Nicolaides.
"Since 2020, there has also been an increase in the development of logistic warehouses due to the proximity to the airport and major highway. This has created many opportunities and upgrades to the road infrastructures," he adds.
Things to do in Kempton Park
The convenience is a highlight of Kempton Park, making it a great place to live. "Residents don't have to spend time travelling to and from their workplaces, with many schools and malls also close to all suburbs. The area offers everything one could want, from golf courses to beautiful nature spots close by," says Nicolaides.
1. Get in some gaming thrills: Emperors Palace has over 1600 slot machines and 69 table games for players ready to try their luck. With a range of restaurants open until the late hours, it's a good option for things to do in Kempton Park at night.
2. Sit down and be entertained: The Theatre of Marcellus showcases the best in local and international dance shows, comedic performances, musicals, and plays. You can also visit Nu Metro Emperors Palace to watch the latest blockbusters.
3. Fill up your shopping basket: Kempton Park's retail scene includes Bonaero Park Shopping Centre, Festival Mall, Kempton Gate Mall, Glen Balad Mall, Kempton Square, Aston Manor Shopping Centre, Norkem Corner, Woodbridge Square, and Harvest Place.
4. Put a swing in things: The area's sunny weather and world-class golf courses are the perfect recipe for a fun day out. You can embrace your inner "Gary Player" at Kempton Park Golf Club, Avion Park Golf Club, and Serengeti Golf Course.
5. Melt stress away at a spa: If you're looking for a Kempton Park activity for a couple or need some personal pampering, there are plenty of options. The area has Octavias by Life Day Spa, Peace Beauty and Health Spa, Cesson Thai Massage & Spa, and African Rock Wellness Salon.
6. Gear up for a friendly battle: Paintball Warriors has awesome playing fields, a takeaway kiosk for snacks, and braai facilities. It's a solid choice for a child's birthday, a team building venue, or a bachelor/bachelorette party.
7. Feel the wind in your hair: The Erora Motocross Track provides off-road trails for motorbike riders of all levels. There's also a freestyle section where you can practise flips.
8. Show off your skills on the ice: The Festival Mall Ice Rink is a great place to cool off and enjoy the rush as you glide on ice. The pricing also makes it one of the most affordable things you can do in Kempton Park.
9. Make a splash under the sun: If you're looking for something fun to do with the kids, the Birchleigh Swimming Pool will keep them busy and full of smiles for hours on end. Clean, safe, and offering a friendly ambience, this public pool is a community favourite.
10. Become the next star athlete: The Birch Acres Football Club is one of the best football development clubs in Gauteng. It provides training and a venue for matches to help children hone their ability.
11. Head out into nature: Kempton Park has some truly beautiful spaces to enjoy fresh air, picnics, and fishing, including Dries Niemandt Park and Blaauwpan Dam.
12. Fuel your foodie adventures: Kempton Park's dining scene caters to all tastes, offering both casual "chill spots" and upscale experiences. Must-visit restaurants include The House of Ribs, Dros Kempton Park, Villa Bianca Mediterranean Cuisine, Braza Emperors Palace, Hangar G5 Pub & Grill, and Level Seven Restaurant & Sky Bar.
Buying or renting in Kempton Park
Considering the area's all-around live-work-play appeal, Kempton Park has become a popular place for those on the property hunt. Nicolaides says the first step should be reaching out to a local professional real estate agency. "Meet with one of their practitioners so you can get a hands-on explanation of what each Kempton Park suburb has to offer. There are so many positives to each and every suburb and some may fit your needs better than others. It's important to hear from an area specialist first before you decide on a property," he emphasises.
Century 21 East has made a name in the area as the go-to real estate professionals in Kempton Park. "We have an area agent that is exclusively located in each suburb. As each member of the team has lived in Kempton Park for most of their lives, they are able to offer a personal look into the area. To get started, view our properties for sale or properties to let in the area to get a feel for the real estate on offer. Then visit our office conveniently located on Monument Road," says Nicolaides.