Union Buildings
Union Buildings
4
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Top ways to experience Union Buildings
The area
Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
285 within 3 miles
Attractions
83 within 6 miles
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
1,399 reviews
Excellent
518
Very good
581
Average
242
Poor
36
Terrible
22
Anton1973E
Pretoria, South Africa6 contributions
Jun 2022
Unfortunately the Union Buildings' gardens (including the Mandela statue) and access road (Government Ave) is now closed over weekends and public holidays - permanently. We used to cycle along the road in front of the building which was quiet and safe to enjoy the lovely views. But this Sunday (5 June, 2022) when we rode up Government Ave we were met by locked gates and a guard.
What a pity, as this is a stunning public space which should be open and accessible to all - especially over weekends when people are able to enjoy it.
What a pity, as this is a stunning public space which should be open and accessible to all - especially over weekends when people are able to enjoy it.
Written June 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Retief P
40 contributions
Jan 2020
It was great seeing the Union Buildings and the Nelson Mandela statue from up close. Unfortunately, the place wasn't wheelchair-riendly. The Buildings was built on terraces, but there was no ramp or lift. A car had to drive me down to the statue of Madiba. I feel the Goverment should lead by example and make everywhere they can wheelchair-accesible. The squaters 'camping' on the front lawn is a sight for sore eyes. what must the tourists from overseas think?
Written February 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jean Joubert
1 contribution
Apr 2022
For anyone looking for an absolute gem of a place in the middle of Pretoria, this is a must see. The Union Building and its architecture, the gardens and historical artifacts are beautiful. This is one of the places in South Africa the government still upkeeps to a high standard. The view is also spectacular while enjoying a BigMac and Coffee. Respect the place and throw your rubbish in a dustbin or keep it in your car.
Written April 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Airika T
Tartu, Estonia129 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
What I can say? The most popular place in center of Pretoria where mostly people take opportunity to exercise in open air. The must visit for tourist, because basically the only old architecture you can see by walking. And of course take a photo with Mandela statue.
Written September 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JUSTINE-JESSE
Pretoria, South Africa703 contributions
Jun 2019
Not a spectacular park even though the buildings designed by Sir Herbert Baker are quite impressive. Often covered in litter and sometimes vagrants. The area does not feel safe so I would avoid visiting near dark.
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jaysbooy
De Aar, South Africa4 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
The well looked after garden and statue of Mr Nelson Mandela is something for everyone in the world.
The Union Building looks out over the Capital City of South Africa.
A must for every person who wants to know and see some history of SA.
The Union Building looks out over the Capital City of South Africa.
A must for every person who wants to know and see some history of SA.
Written October 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike_G6308
Cape Town, South Africa473 contributions
Aug 2023 • Business
The Union Buildings is always impressive to see. Sadly ordinary visitors are not allowed anymore in the buildings. The gardens are looking well , but dry for this time in winter.Various monuments are there to be seen. Please note gardens are closed on weekends.
Written August 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Three bees guests house
Pretoria, South Africa10 contributions
Sep 2020 • Business
Luxurious to the hilt, wholesome and satisfying. upper-market and stylish! Highly recommended for solo travelers, families and kids. Spacious rooms allow guests to enjoy the peaceful Pretorias
Tranquility and enough transit time before heading to the Kruger. Three bees proximity of 27mnts drive to 0r tambo its almost like sleeping in Kempton park .where the airport is located
Tranquility and enough transit time before heading to the Kruger. Three bees proximity of 27mnts drive to 0r tambo its almost like sleeping in Kempton park .where the airport is located
Written September 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GJN7
Clarens, South Africa90 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
Went to see the Union Buildings and the statue of Nelson Mandela. Such a pity the protestors are still being allowed to live on one of the terraces as they are making such a mess which is unhygienic and off-putting to visitors and tourists. While we were there, one of the men who live in the tent dwelling, walking arose the lawn naked with just a cloth across his ‘front’. Not good!
Written March 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessica
London, UK10 contributions
Sep 2023 • Solo
This past weekend I went to visit the Union Building. What a splendid way to spend a Saturday. There is so much history and beautiful heritage to explore and learn about and also the view from there of Pretoria is absolutely breathtaking. They also have a beautiful jogging trail for your fitness bunnies. I am so happy I went
Written September 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Can we picnic as a group in the union buildings garden during the week. Is there a cost? Do we need to book?
Written July 5, 2018
No cost just be careful, do not want to become a statistic. Would rather go to botanical garden for picnics safer because its closed of from the outside.
Written August 9, 2018
We are visiting the Union Buildings in February.
Could you please tell me if there is a car park?
Thankyou
Eileen
Written January 21, 2016
There is street parking all around. With car guards to keep an eye on your vehicle
Written January 24, 2016
64meg
Pretoria, South Africa
Hi, what do i need to do to book a picnic in the evening and what is the costs?
Written August 18, 2015
There is no need to book, the place is open to public except the government offices side. However, I suggest you move as group and do not carry any valuable items in the evening, My TIP- Always be observant of individuals moving up and down the parks , all day long. You find them in almost all the parks. So try to stay away from parks in the evenings
Written October 4, 2017
Hi, We are visiting in September and staying at the Sheraton hotel, close to the Union Buildings. Is it safe to walk and visit the buildings and gardens ?
Written March 3, 2015
Yes it is fairly safe during daytime. Church street is a major feeder route and very busy so be careful in crossing the street. The Sheraton hotel is directly across from the Union Building on the southern side and a good one to stay at. I am sure the hotel would offer help as well. Hope you will have a splendid time.
Written March 4, 2015
Showing results 1-4 of 4
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing