There is one thing that all students have in common: once in a while, we enjoy a good night out. There are lots of places in Hatfield a person could go, but what if risking Jolly’s does not appeal to you, and you are bored of Padstal? Well, there is a secret third option: the TuksRes clubhouses.
Clubhouses are TuksRes-approved bars attached to the male residences on the Hillcrest, Groenkloof, and Prinshof campuses. While this article focuses on Hillcrest clubhouses and their features, the others are definitely worth exploring, especially if your residence is on or near the other campuses.
Due to clubhouses being a part of TuksRes, access is controlled by student cards (turns out they are good for more than just exam entrance), and students must access the residences via campus turnstiles. Driving in through the main gates is also an option, but students must ensure that they have a designated driver, and that they drink responsibly. The university’s bus service runs between the different campuses, and may therefore also be an alternative method of transport. A word of advice, though: be sure to check the bus schedule as they do not run when the clubhouses close. An Uber will drop you off at the campus gate, but a student card is still needed to get through the turnstiles as Ubers are not allowed on university property.
From Rag week until the exam cooldown period in semester two, clubhouses are open almost every Friday night from 19:00 until 22:00, with last call at 21:30. This means that they are a great way to unwind after a long week of being an academic weapon, or after a particularly gruelling test week. For special occasions, some clubhouses might also open on a Saturday night.
The controlled environment of a clubhouse makes it a potentially safer option than other bars and clubs in the area, such as the Strip, which is directly opposite the Hillcrest campus. The TuksRes Guide requires that the prices at the clubhouses be competitive, meaning that you can have a fun night without breaking the bank.
Every clubhouse has something unique to offer, and so, it is definitely recommended to try and hit up each one to maximise your experience. For example, most of the clubhouses (with the exception of College) have a “signature shot”, a drink that can only be bought at their bar. Those who end their night at House TAU might also get the opportunity to witness one of their traditions and join in on the fun!
For more information, go onto Instagram. Some clubhouses post through their residence’s main page, such as College and its clubhouse, G6. However, some of the others have their own Instagram accounts, such as Tuks Ekhaya and Rodney’s.
