Carlton Hotel

Carlton Hotel Johannesburg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Carlton Hotel in Johannesburg is more than just a building—it is a monument to South Africa’s dynamic history, architectural innovation, and social transformation. From its beginnings as a beacon of luxury in the early 20th century to its role as a hub for political change, the Carlton Hotel has left an indelible mark on Johannesburg. Although the hotel itself has been closed since 1997, the adjoining Carlton Centre—the tallest building in Africa—remains a vibrant commercial, retail, and cultural destination. This guide details the hotel’s storied past, its cultural and architectural importance, and provides practical information for visitors seeking to explore the Carlton Centre and surrounding attractions today (The South African; VISI).

Early Origins: The First Carlton Hotel (1902–1963)
The Modern Carlton Hotel and Carlton Centre (1972–1997)
Decline and Closure
- Urban Decay and Economic Shifts
- Final Years and Abandonment
Visiting the Carlton Centre Today
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Early Origins: The First Carlton Hotel (1902–1963)

The original Carlton Hotel opened in 1902 at the intersection of Eloff and Commissioner Streets. Conceived by mining magnate Barney Barnato, its vision was to be the most luxurious hotel in South Africa. Despite delays due to the Anglo-Boer War, it debuted as a six-story edifice, featuring a telephone in every room and early air conditioning—innovations ahead of their time (Daily Investor; Artefacts). The hotel’s Edwardian architecture, grand ballroom, palm court, and shopping arcade made it the social epicenter of Johannesburg, hosting royalty such as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth during their 1947 visit (The South African).

Despite its prestige, the original hotel was demolished in 1963, making way for a new vision of urban modernity (Daily Investor).

The Modern Carlton Hotel and Carlton Centre (1972–1997)

Planning and Construction

The modern Carlton Hotel was realized as part of the Carlton Centre complex—a joint venture between South African Breweries and Anglo American, designed by the New York-based firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (The Heritage Portal). The complex included the 50-story Carlton Centre office tower (Africa’s tallest), the 31-story hotel, and a five-story Garlicks department store. Construction began in the late 1960s, culminating in a grand opening in 1972 (SowetanLIVE).

Architectural Features and Innovations

The Carlton Centre was a marvel of international modernist design. The hotel boasted over 600 rooms, a rooftop pool, fine dining, high-speed lifts, and direct access to a bustling underground shopping arcade (VISI). Its steel skeleton, curtain wall façade, and luxury interiors—such as the marble-clad lobby with crystal chandeliers—set new standards for African hospitality (Artefacts).

For 25 years, the Carlton Hotel was Johannesburg’s social and political heart. It hosted global luminaries including Nelson Mandela, Hillary Clinton, Henry Kissinger, Whitney Houston, and Michael Jackson. Mandela celebrated his 75th birthday here, and the hotel served as a meeting ground for politicians, business leaders, and international guests during a period of profound social change (BusinessTech; Huck Magazine). The National Peace Accord was signed here in 1991, and in 1994 Mandela delivered the ANC’s victory speech in the ballroom (VISI).

Management and Prestige

Managed initially by Western International Hotels (later Westin), the Carlton set the benchmark for luxury and cosmopolitan culture in Johannesburg. Its restaurants, ice rink, and entertainment venues made it a destination for locals and tourists alike (SowetanLIVE).

Decline and Closure

Urban Decay and Economic Shifts

From the late 1980s, Johannesburg’s CBD faced rising crime, infrastructure decline, and corporate migration to suburbs like Sandton and Rosebank. This, combined with global political pressures, eroded the hotel’s profitability (BusinessTech; The South African). Westin withdrew its management in 1988, and Anglo American struggled to maintain occupancy.

Final Years and Abandonment

In 1997, after years of financial loss, the Carlton Hotel closed. Its contents were auctioned, and the hotel tower has remained vacant ever since. The broader Carlton Centre, however, continues as a commercial and office hub, with the shopping mall and observation deck still popular (Joburg ETC).

Visiting the Carlton Centre Today

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hotel: The Carlton Hotel remains closed to the public.
Carlton Centre shopping mall: Open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Top of Africa observation deck: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM (Carlton Centre Official; Triphobo).
Tickets: Observation deck tickets are available at the counter; guided tours can be booked online. Prices are affordable and may vary; check the official website for details.

Accessibility

The Carlton Centre is located at 150 Commissioner Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg. It is accessible by car, taxi, bus, and train. Wheelchair access is available in the shopping center. Parking is limited; public transport or secure taxi services are recommended (Carlton Centre).

Nearby Attractions

Museum Africa: Explores the region’s history and culture.
Constitution Hill: A former prison complex turned human rights museum.
Johannesburg Art Gallery: South African and international art.
Mai Mai Flea Market: Traditional crafts and food.

Travel Tips

Visit the CBD during daylight hours for safety.
Consider joining guided walking tours for historical insight.
Use official transport services and keep valuables secure.
The observation deck offers the best views at sunset.

Photographic Spots

The Carlton Centre’s height provides sweeping city views. The observation deck is the highest public viewpoint in Africa, ideal for panoramic photography, especially at golden hour (South Africa Tourism).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Carlton Hotel open to visitors or guests?
A: No. The hotel closed in December 1997 and remains closed; only the Carlton Centre is open to the public.

Q: What are the Carlton Centre’s visiting hours?
A: Shopping mall: Mon–Sat 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Observation deck: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sun 9:00 AM–2:00 PM.

Q: How do I buy tickets for the observation deck?
A: Purchase tickets at the counter. For guided tours, book online via the official website.

Q: Is the Carlton Centre wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the shopping center and public areas are accessible.

Q: What safety precautions should I take?
A: Visit during the day, use reputable transport, and keep valuables secure.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, some local operators offer tours of the Carlton Centre and Johannesburg CBD.

Conclusion

The Carlton Hotel’s legacy is central to Johannesburg’s narrative of luxury, transformation, and resilience. While the hotel itself is closed, the Carlton Centre remains an essential destination for visitors eager to explore the city’s history, architecture, and vibrant urban life. From the observation deck’s panoramic vistas to the bustling shopping arcade, the site offers a multifaceted experience of Johannesburg’s past and present. For a deeper exploration, combine your visit with nearby cultural and historical sites, and use digital resources like the Audiala app for curated guides and audio tours.

References

For the latest updates, curated tours, and offline guides, download the Audiala app. Share your experiences on social media and stay tuned for news on Johannesburg’s historic sites.