The Great Gatsby Houghton

The Great Gatsby Houghton Overview

You know what struck me first about The Great Gatsby Houghton? The name actually makes sense once you’re inside – there’s this genuinely elegant, old-world feel that doesn’t come across as trying too hard. I mean, we’re talking about a four-star place tucked away on Munro Drive, and honestly, the location is pretty brilliant if you know Johannesburg at all. Houghton’s one of those leafy suburbs where you can actually walk around without constantly looking over your shoulder, plus you’re close enough to Rosebank and Sandton that nothing feels like a trek.

The rooms have this interesting mix going on – they’ve clearly put thought into the details without going overboard on the luxury thing. What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night, which isn’t something you can take for granted in Joburg. The staff seem to actually know the area too, not just the standard tourist spots. When I asked about good coffee nearby, the guy at reception pointed me toward this little place on 7th Street that I never would have found otherwise. The parking situation is sorted, which might sound boring but trust me, after dealing with some of the nightmare parking in other parts of the city, it matters.

Here’s the thing though – and this might be why it’s got such a high rating – it feels like they’ve figured out that sweet spot between being polished and being comfortable. The breakfast area overlooks these beautiful gardens, and there’s something about sitting there in the morning with proper coffee that just works. I stayed during what’s usually a busy time, but it never felt crowded or rushed. The whole place has this calm vibe that’s honestly pretty rare. If you’re coming to Johannesburg for business, you’re perfectly positioned for meetings in Sandton or Rosebank, but if you’re here to explore, you’ve got easy access to places like the Neighbourgoods Market or even heading out to Soweto. It’s not the flashiest place you’ll ever stay, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want.

The Great Gatsby Houghton Accommodations

Reviews of The Great Gatsby Houghton

• Gorgeous gorgeous experience – Nkcubeko from South Africa – September 16, 2025 (10/10)

  First and foremost the host is amazing, so energetic and extremely accommodating. We were upgraded to a gorgeous room with an amazing view. I love the vintage charm.
  
  What could be improved: Stone steps up to the room is a lot of exercise that can be a bit tiresome when you have to do more than one trip, but the room and experience makes it worth it.

• Always looked after in friendly and efficient way. Really enjoy my stay every time – Vernede from South Africa – September 13, 2025 (10/10)

  Old style house in great location.

• Staying at The Great Gatsby – Shaun from South Africa – September 7, 2025 (10/10)

  Such a beautiful venue in the heart of Joburg.
  
  Gina is a gracious host while all the staff I spoke to (Mike, Theo) were wonderful and so proud of where they worked.

• Boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past – Matthew from United States – September 1, 2025 (10/10)

  “A colossal affair by any standard—it was a factual imitation of some Hotel de Ville in Normandy…” The Great Gatsby is a lovely randlord mansion on leafy Munro Drive in Houghton Estate, chockablock with antiques from the Roaring Twenties. Hostess Gina Gabriel, who has owned the house for a couple of decades, is a charming ranconteuse who provides wonderful conversation and advice. The Library is an excellent choice, just next to the Boudoir. Highly recommended!

• Exceptional – Goliath from South Africa – August 31, 2025 (10/10)

  I was so impressed with the presentation of the food. It was fresh and full of flavour. Gina really understands her way around the kitchen. The location is also perfect. I am familiar with the area but my time at the Gatsby gave me a different experience and perspective of the area. Gina is one of a kind. She's welcoming and accommodating.
  
  The interior styling in the main house is so refreshing to the eye, like something out of a vintage vogue magazine. I stayed in the Princess room and felt like a real princess. My stay was so good, I didn't wanna go back to normal life just yet and ended up extending my time there which was worth every penny.
  I highly recommend The Gatsby,whether you're traveling for work or a local just wanting a few quiet days away while being catered to, then Gina is your girl and Gatsby is the place.

• Stepping back into a fairytale – Barbara from South Africa – August 27, 2025 (10/10)

  We loved the enthusiastic welcome Gina and her team, Mike and Privilege, gave us. Nothing was too much trouble! It’s like being whisked back a century to a time and place where the rich Randlords built small castles where they lived in supreme luxury – and we were invited to enter and share in living this enchanted life. Splendid time travel indeed!
  We were lucky enough to be upgraded to the Library Room which is sumptuously comfortable and has the most delicious en suite shower.
  Breakfast was an abundant delight, served in the gracious and beautiful dining room.
  Can’t wait to return and try out some of the other accommodation options.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Magnificent period house that will transport you to the glamour of the 1920s! – Barry from United Kingdom – August 27, 2025 (10/10)

  What an utterly gorgeous heritage house that has been restored to period perfection! It felt like stepping into a 1920s time machine. I stayed in a small room within the main house and it felt incredibly cosy. Very comfy bed and the view from the window was so wonderful I refused to draw the curtains closed! It felt like staying in an exotic botanical garden. Several spaces downstairs lend themselves to sitting in comfort over a book or quiet conversation, though I hadn't time to indulge. Parking and unloading was in a private, secure area, on the carriage drive in the front of the house.
  
  What could be improved: Booking.com doesn't mention that the least expensive room has a separate, albeit private, bathroom. For me this wasn't a bother as it's only a few meters from the bedroom to the loo, but it might irk some visitors! The owner graciously invited me to upgrade to a room with an en suite, but it wasn't necessary!

• EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE – Kirsti from South Africa – August 26, 2025 (10/10)

  How do I put into words the hospitality I have been shown by Gina? She is truly amazing and literally goes above and beyond for her guests. I was spoilt enough with her generosity by putting me in the Boudoir Suite – A DEFINITE MUST FOR ALL! This place is exquisite and the food to die for. Thank you Gina, absolutely loved my stay here. Not even 5 Stars will cut it, 10/10
  
  What could be improved: The only thing I didn't like is that I had to leave to go back home!

• Very comfortable, stately home in Houghton – Vernede from South Africa – August 24, 2025 (9/10)

  Old Stately home in Houghton. Host completely welcoming and you just get taken on a history journey of friendliness and comfort. Loved it

• Exceptional – Amanda from South Africa – August 23, 2025 (10/10)

  The service was the best. Mike welcomed us warmly and assisted with our bags. Gina is very friendly and always willing to assist. We had booked the wrong dates and Gina assisted quite quickly. We loved our stay.

Surroundings

Facilities