Hatfield’s “Jol Spots”

If you are a first year UP student, there is a good chance that you have heard many stories about the adventures that take place after dark. If you want to create some stories of your own, here is a list of places to choose from.

Jolly Rogers

The strip is a road of clubs that begins on 285 Lynnwood Road. Each club has its unique appeal and you can experience them all in one night, if you are determined. The first club along this strip is Jolly Rogers. If you like Electronic Dance Music and drinks specials, this place is for you. Its high-energy and popular turnout, make Jollies a good choice for extroverts. Keep an eye out for the nights where Chunda Munki and TiMO ODV perform.

Latinos

So, maybe techno music is not your thing. If Hip-Hop/Rap is, you can take a quick jump over to Latinos. If there is ever a student night, you can safely assume that this will be the most packed club on the strip. It has limited seating and an incredibly busy bar, so be prepared to stay on your feet and pay with cash whenever possible.

Jukes

Situated between Latinos and Jolly Rogers, is Jukes. It has all sorts of music, game and quiz nights, a dance floor, as well as tables and benches to sit at. It also has specials on drinks (you often get two double brandy and cokes for R50), so make sure you bring a friend along to share this with.

Fokof Bar

If you are tired of dancing and just want to take a seat, you can pop on over to Fokof bar, the last club on the strip. It’s 50m down the road from Jollies, and despite its name, is a very inviting place. • If you are looking for a more pub-centred place, this would be your best bet.

Terra Rooftop

Terra is a relatively new bar, and is hidden right at the end of the strip. It is a rooftop cocktail bar, with an extensive and beautiful view of Pretoria. The bar has events such as easy Sundays, or two for one cocktail Saturdays. Not only is this a lovely spot from which you can enjoy the view, but it is a spot from which you can watch sport on the big screen. Oh, and did we mention, Wednesdays are quiz nights.

Corner Pocket

This is a genuinely relaxed spot where you can go to have a few drinks with a friend over a game of pool. Just like Terra, this sport has a wonderful view of the Pretorian skyline.

Springbok

While moving away from the strip, we can look at the clubs and pubs along Hilda Street. If you were looking for a pub where your main goal is to eat, Springbok is perfect for you. Not only can you get two burgers for R50, you can bring some coins and play songs of your choice on the Jukebox. If you want a bit more than just sitting and dancing, you can also pay to play a few games of pool.

Some tips:

• Ubering is safer than driving. There is no need to appoint a designated driver and it prevents you from looking for parking for 20 minutes. However, always uber in groups as a safety precaution.
• Always bring your ID, otherwise you will not be allowed inside any of the clubs.
• Wear a mask, sanitise and remember to social distance, so that everyone can have fun safely.
• If you do experience any COVID-like symptoms, stay home. We promise that the jol isn’t going anywhere.
• The majority of the clubs close at 02:00, so to avoid waiting for an Uber (and high Uber fares), try to leave around 01:30.
• Stay safe by going out in a group and by keeping tabs on your friends.
• Watch your drink and don’t leave it unattended.