In the bustling core of Johannesburg, South Africa, the Bannister Hotel stands as a beacon of hospitality. It blends urban energy with heartfelt warmth. In the latest episode of ‘Keep Traveling: Your African Vacation‘, host Rael Zieve welcomed Andrew Bannister and Alice Rowe to share their story. They are the dynamic duo behind this iconic hotel. From its prime location to its innovative rooftop expansion and deep community roots, the Bannister Hotel is redefining what it means to stay in the heart of Joburg.
Discovering the Bannister Hotel
Nestled just a kilometre from Park Station, where the Gautrain from OR Tambo Airport concludes its journey, the Bannister Hotel sits on the edge of Johannesburg’s vibrant Inner City Bowl. It is surrounded by the academic pulse of Wits University and the University of Johannesburg. Therefore, it’s a hub of accessibility and urban charm. “We’re right in the middle of the middle,” Alice Rowe quips, capturing the hotel’s prime spot in a city buzzing with potential.
What sets the Bannister apart is its origin story. Andrew Bannister, a self-described “naive optimist,” stumbled into hospitality after owning a photographic studio in the building. When a tenant running accommodations for cross-border traders left him in the lurch, Andrew saw an opportunity. “I thought, if I have a hotel, I can afford to go fishing all the time,” he laughs. This lighthearted spark birthed the Bannister Hotel, which today is a thriving boutique retreat. It proves that passion and perseverance can transform challenges into triumphs.
A Safe and Welcoming Urban Oasis at the Bannister Hotel
Johannesburg’s reputation for being daunting doesn’t faze Bannister vacation guests. “Our immediate area is very secure,” Andrew reassures, crediting the Braamfontein Improvement District and Bad Boy Security for keeping the streets safe. “It’s a bit like being at a game lodge—you’re very safe here, but wander a few blocks at sunset, and I’d advise against it,” he adds with a chuckle. This balance of security and urban safari adventure makes the Bannister a haven for both local and international travelers.The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is equally impressive. With 97 solar panels soon to be installed, a generator for backup, and ample water storage, the Bannister stays resilient against South Africa’s power and water challenges. “We never run out of water, and soon we’ll be largely off-grid,” Andrew shares. This ensures guests enjoy uninterrupted comfort.
Culinary and Event Delights
The Bannister Hotel’s new rooftop restaurant is set to become a Joburg gem. “It’s quite a beautiful venue—one of the more stunning rooftop spaces in the city,” Andrew boasts. Offering well-priced, reliable meals, the restaurant kept the hotel afloat during the tough days of lockdown when occupancy plummeted to 5%. Now, with the rooftop expansion, it’s poised to host larger events. From corporate workshops to weekend parties, it accommodates bigger crowds in style.
Alice highlights the open terrace veranda, complete with a fire kitchen for that quintessential South African braai experience. “South Africans love a braai, and we’re bringing the theatre of food with open flames under the open sky,” she says. This multipurpose space promises to be a unique draw. It blends urban views with culinary flair.
Community at Its Core
The Bannister Hotel isn’t just about great stays—it’s about uplifting its people. “Everybody starts in the scullery, washing dishes,” Alice explains, detailing their policy of growing talent from within. From humble beginnings, staff like front desk manager Monde have risen through the ranks. They are supported by the hotel’s commitment to education. The Bannister covers 50% of study costs for any course. It covers 100% for hospitality-related training, fostering a family-like environment with low staff turnover. “When December comes, our staff get a profit share—the better the business does, the better we all do,” Alice adds.
This community spirit extends to Johannesburg itself. The Bannister is part of My Josie, a collaborative led by the dynamic Dawn Robertson, former head of SA Tourism. This grassroots movement aims to clean up the city, enhance safety, and make Joburg more accessible. “We’re on the cusp of something really exciting,” Alice enthuses, reflecting the hotel’s role in the city’s renewal.
Stories That Warm the Heart
Andrew Bannister is a Joburg legend in his own right. “Wherever we go, someone shouts, ‘Mr. Bannister!’” Alice shares, recounting how Andrew’s kindness—offering a mattress, a meal, or support to those in need—has left a lasting mark. Guests and locals alike approach him with gratitude. They recall moments when he helped them through tough times. “There’s so much love for the Bannister, the building, and the man,” Alice says, painting a picture of a hotel woven into the fabric of the city.
Plan Your Bannister vacation
The Bannister Hotel is more than a place to stay—it’s a gateway to Johannesburg’s soul. With its secure location, sustainable practices, and vibrant rooftop addition, it offers an authentic urban escape. Whether you’re savouring a braai under the stars, joining a curated walking tour, or simply soaking in the city’s energy, the Bannister delivers memories that resonate.
Win a Bannister vacation!
Enter for a chance to win a 3-night stay for one or two, including free breakfast and exclusive Joburg walking tours. Visit www.wildsunsets.travel/prize-draw/ to join the adventure.
Ready to experience Johannesburg’s heart? Book your stay at www.wildsunsets.travel or email rael@wildsunsets.travel for exclusive offers. The Bannister Hotel awaits, ready to welcome you to the pulse of Joburg.