Henley on Klip can be described as a village which has the unique distinction of being a conservancy area, entwined with nature, says Annalie McCallum of Re/Max All Stars.
The village is part of the Midvaal Municipality, which has been consistently ranked as a top performing municipality in Gauteng. The village is equidistant from Joburg, the East Rand and the Vaal Triangle, about 30km each way, says McCallum.
Properties along the river are situated on large stands and most sport well-settled flowing
gardens and mature trees. - Annalie McCallum, estate agent, RE/MAX All Stars
Picture: Supplied
“The community here takes excellent care of the environment and every street is clearly signposted in a unique Henley manner. Residents ensure the area is immaculate and a river clean-up team made up of residents constantly keeps the waterway clear,” observes McCallum. The village was founded in 1904 by English immigrant advocate Horace Kent who chose the name as the area reminded him of his hometown of Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire.
“It began as a weekend pleasure resort and people from the city came to enjoy picnics along the riverbanks away from the crowds – as is still the case today.
“A vibrant community life offers entertainment such as the annual Mardi Gras, Art in the Park, several mini theatres, craft markets, quaint restaurants and pubs. The residents are much involved with the wellbeing of each other and inclusiveness echoes the value system of residents,” says McCallum, a proud resident of the area.
“Properties along the river are situated on large stands varying from 2 000² to 4 000m² and most properties boast well-settled flowing gardens and mature trees.”
She adds: “Properties along the river are upmarket manor houses with mainly classic interiors and wellused fireplaces. The finishes reflect the durable quality of everything as it was a couple of decades ago.
“As new owners have moved in many properties have been renovated and sport more modern finishes.” The riverside and adjacent properties are popular, particularly those in Oxford Road, Regatta Road, Mitchell Bank and Dinsdale.
McCallum observes sales activity is minimal in this area as Henley on Klip is a lifestyle choice. “Mainly, property prices have been market-related and over the years experienced a slight increase.
Compared with properties closer to the Rand area this is the place to go for an honest rural setting and a value-for-money purchase.” She also says different neighbourhoods form part of the village with homes priced from R500 000 to R2 million or more. Vacant land is not abundantly available.
Retirement villages are among developments in the area, being an affordable solution for those choosing nature for their golden years. Although there are no hospitals or shopping centres nearby, Alberton/Greater Joburg or Vaal Triangle do offer the best medical treatment.
There is a petrol station and supermarket for necessities. The renowned Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls is also situated at Henley on Klip.
Annalie McCallum contributed to the writing of this report.
Mark Gory’s favourite places and things to do
Henley on Klip is an unexpected oasis of calm and natural beauty on the river. There’s a nice countryside, village feel that’s both child and animal-friendly. Most homes are stately properties with large gardens. It’s also small so it’s very easy to get around. - Mark Gory, resident
Picture: Supplied
1 Molly’s Speakeasy
This is an old-fashioned, interesting place with a lovely garden. They also serve country food in a welcoming environment. 967/14 Ewelme Road, Henley on Klip, Meyerton. 016 366 0368
2 The Hound Bistro
Provides decent, country-style food in a convivial and comfortable atmosphere. Their pricing is reasonable and you get value for money. 108 Ewelme Road, Henley on Klip, Meyerton. 016 366 0084
The Hound Bistro has a country style. Picture: Supplied
3 The Windmill Coffee Shop
A variety of delicious breakfasts. 196 Bokmakierie Road, off Henley Drive, Henley on Klip, Meyerton. 063 136 2910
4 Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve
This is a well-known protected reserve with lots of plant and animal species as well as hiking trails. It’s near the town of Heidelberg and about 10km from Henley. R550, Heidelberg.
5 Meyerton
This town is conveniently located for us, about 6km away. It provides virtually everything you cannot get in Henley, including services such as law firms and all types of shops. Midvaal Municipality, Gauteng.
6 Montagues
Great cocktails, cosy, comfortable. Henley Drive, Highbury, Meyerton. 016 366 7008