This historic members-only club was founded in 1887 and is a must-visit. Its spectacular interiors hark back to a bygone era of British colonial style and fabulously wealthy mining magnates who once ruled this town.

Nowadays the club is open to all (so long as you obey the smart dress code) and hosts regular non-members events such as opera performances, book fairs and author talks, and concerts. 

Highlights include viewing the grand billiards room in the basement, the well-stocked gun-room, the beautiful entrance hall with an impressive stained glass dome and grand staircase and the exceptional library. The library is only open to members, so a special request will be necessary. 

The vast mahogany-panelled Main Bar (said to be the longest in Africa) where beer is still served in tankards, is open to the public for lunch, dinner and drinks Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00–20:00.

In the basement of the club make sure take time to visit James Findlay's extraordinary bookshop which specialises in historic collectable books, antique maps and vintage posters. Griffin Shea's Bridge Books is also a great stop for more contemporary reads – on Commissioner Street. 

GET THERE WITH GAUTRAIN