Popular City Lodge Hotel Newtown set to close after 10 years of operation

One of Johannesburg's popular hotels, City Lodge Hotel in Newtown, is set to shut down at the end of March, bringing an end to nearly a decade of operation since it first opened in 2015. 

The hotel has been a favourite among travellers and locals alike, not only for its upmarket accommodation but also for the experience it offers guests. 

According to City Lodge Hotels management, the decision to close the property is not linked to poor performance. "City Lodge Hotels confirms that operations at City Lodge Hotel Newtown in Johannesburg’s CBD will conclude on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, following the natural expiry of the property lease," Andrew Widegger, CEO of City Lodge Hotels, tells Time Out Johannesburg. 

"The decision not to renew the lease is part of our ongoing business review process, which ensures that our portfolio remains aligned with the group’s long‑term strategic priorities. This decision is not related to the performance of the hotel team, the City Lodge Hotels brand, or the broader Johannesburg market." 

With 148 rooms available, the hotel welcomed guests from across South Africa and abroad. Not only does the hotel have great amenities, but it is also strategically positioned adjacent to the Newtown Junction shopping centre and other entertainment hubs within the city, including the African Museum, and Maboneng - one of Johannesburg’s most popular entertainment and cultural hubs. The hotel is also less than an hour's drive from OR Tambo International Airport and the Gautrain station.  

While the closure marks the end of an era for the Newtown property, the group still operates several other hotels across the city, including City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport, Bryanston, Eastgate, Fourways, Johannesburg Airport, Barbara Road, Sandton and Morningside. 

Widegger says there are no current plans to open another property in the Newtown area. 

"As announced in our interim results, 'The group continues to seek and pursue selected opportunities for new hotels in high growth areas within South Africa.' At present, however, the Newtown precinct does not fit into that category, and as such, we do not have any plans at this point in time," he adds. 

For travellers and staycation lovers, Johannesburg still boasts a wide variety of accommodation options across the city. From boutique stays to affordable hotels, there are plenty of places where visitors can experience Joburg's vibrant energy. 

Be sure to check out our list of recommended hotels across Johannesburg here.