


Bedford Centre
About
Bedford Centre offers a convenient indoor play facility perfect for keeping little ones entertained while visiting Johannesburg. Located within a popular shopping mall in Bedfordview, this climate-controlled play space features climbing structures, slides, and age-appropriate equipment that gives parents a chance to shop or grab a bite while kids burn off energy in a safe, supervised environment.
Highlights
- ✓Climate-controlled indoor environment perfect for escaping Johannesburg's weather
- ✓Age-appropriate climbing structures and slides designed for younger children
- ✓Safe, enclosed play area allowing parents to relax or shop nearby
- ✓Located within a major shopping centre with amenities and dining options
- ✓Highly rated facility with excellent reviews from local families
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy a quieter play experience with more space for your little ones.
- 2.The South African Rand goes far for international visitors, making this an affordable activity. Bring hand sanitizer as kids will be touching shared equipment.
- 3.Combine your visit with shopping at the mall for essentials or souvenirs. The centre has over 180 stores, making it easy to multitask.
- 4.Parking is plentiful at the shopping centre with covered options available. Enter from Van Der Linde Road for easiest access.
- 5.Note that Johannesburg is at high altitude (1,753m), so international visitors may feel tired more quickly. The indoor setting is perfect for adjusting to the elevation.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) are ideal when the facility is less crowded and kids are fresh. Avoid Saturday afternoons when local families flock to the mall. South Africa's mild climate makes this a year-round option, especially welcome during Johannesburg's afternoon thunderstorms in summer (November to March).
What to Know
The play facility operates within Bedford Centre's mall hours, closing earlier on Sundays (3:00 PM). Food courts and restaurants are available throughout the shopping centre, and the mall offers clean restroom facilities with baby changing stations.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. South African school holidays (mid-December to mid-January, late March to early April, late June to mid-July, and late September to early October) see increased crowds. The facility provides a great rainy day option during Johannesburg's summer thunderstorm season.
Nearby Eats
Bedford Centre has multiple family-friendly dining options including Spur Steak Ranch (a South African chain kids love with activity packs and play areas) and Ocean Basket for seafood. The food court offers quick international options like pizza and burgers if you need a fast meal.
More Activities Near Bedfordview
Bedfordview Shopping Centre Play Area
Located inside Bedfordview Shopping Centre, this convenient indoor play area offers a safe, climate-controlled space for young children to burn energy while parents shop or take a break. With climbing structures, slides, and age-appropriate equipment, it's a perfect pit stop during a shopping trip or rainy day activity in Gauteng.
Bedfordview Skate Park
Bedfordview Skate Park offers a welcoming environment for young skaters of all skill levels, with dedicated beginner zones that help kids build confidence on wheels. The modern facility prioritizes safety while providing professional lessons, making it an ideal spot for children to learn skateboarding, rollerblading, or scootering in a structured setting.
Bedfordview Golf Club
Bedfordview Golf Club welcomes young golfers with dedicated junior golf programs designed to introduce children to the sport in a supportive, family-friendly environment. The club features excellent practice facilities including a driving range and putting greens, making it ideal for kids taking their first swings or developing their skills through structured lessons and youth events.
Bedfordview Community Swimming Pool
Bedfordview Community Swimming Pool offers a refreshing escape for families visiting Johannesburg's eastern suburbs, featuring dedicated shallow pools perfect for young swimmers and beginners. With qualified lifeguards on duty and seasonal swimming lessons available, it's an ideal spot for international families looking to cool off during South Africa's warm summer months while giving kids a safe environment to splash and play.