Johannesburg: Ascot Hotel (Hotel)

0.3 business

Address: 59 grant ave, Cnr algernon rd & grant ave, Norwood , Johannesburg 2192, South africa
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Lonely Planet Review

While the surrounding area has capitalised on Joburg's boom, the Ascot seems to have doggedly preferred stagnation. But if staying in old-school hotels that recall American films of the 1970s is your thing, the Ascot offers a bricks-and-mortar dose of reverie.

The large metal ramp at the entrance is a consideration not for the physically handicapped but liquor deliverymen. Yes, folks, it's that kind of place. Last refurbished by an unnamed lover of the colour brown way back in your dad's day, it boasts a pub called 'Captain's Cabin', and a positively charming dose of quaintness. Rooms are spare and not fastidiously clean (we didn't see any cockroaches, but this may be because they preferred more suitable accommodation), but given the hotel's location in busy Norwood, you may not care if you are simply using it as a place to crash. The windows of the galleon-styled restaurant/bar seem constructed from discarded lager mugs - a beer-goggle trait that may help you see past the faded glory of this neighbourhood hotel and learn to love it. Unlike so many of old Joburg's stalwarts, this place is a survivor.