History
Brits was established in 1920 and named after the Brits family who farmed in the area. The town grew as an agricultural and later industrial centre on the Crocodile River. The platinum and chrome mining industry in the surrounding Bushveld Complex brought significant economic growth from the mid-20th century onward. Brits's proximity to Pretoria and Hartbeespoort has made it a fast-growing residential node as Gauteng's housing pressure spills into North West Province.
What Brits is Known For
Brits is known for the surrounding platinum and chrome mining industry — several significant mines operate in the area. The Crocodile River provides irrigation for the surrounding agricultural land and the Hartbeespoort Dam upstream. The Vaalkop Dam near Brits is a water sports and fishing destination. The town is a key supply centre for the platinum mining belt stretching from Rustenburg through Brits toward Thabazimbi.
Key Areas & Neighbourhoods
The CBD on Voortrekker Street is the commercial hub. Brits Ext suburbs and newer estates are expanding rapidly. Mothutlung township is the main residential area for the broader population. Industrial zones house mining support services and manufacturing. Surrounding areas are a mix of platinum mines, agricultural smallholdings, and game farms. The N4 highway connects Brits to Pretoria and Rustenburg.
Economy & Industry
Platinum and chrome mining and related services are the primary economic drivers. Agricultural activities — vegetables, sunflowers, and livestock — use the Crocodile River irrigation. Retail and services serve a rapidly growing residential population. Construction and real estate are active due to the spill from Gauteng. The proximity to Hartbeespoort's tourism economy generates additional commercial activity.
Tips for Visitors & New Residents
Brits is 60 km from Pretoria on the N4. The Vaalkop Dam is 20 km north for water sports. Hartebeespoort Dam is 25 km east. The town has solid retail with Pick n Pay and Checkers, and a private hospital. Mining activity means heavy trucks on surrounding roads — plan routes accordingly. Summers are hot with Highveld thunderstorms; winters cold. The R511 connects Brits to the Magaliesberg for a scenic mountain drive.