Singapore River

The Singapore River (also known as “The River”) precinct, with three distinctive quays – Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay – is the historic heart of the city and the foundation upon which Singapore has been built. Located in the central region, it spans 3.2 km from the sea to its upper reaches in Kim Seng Road. Its diverse offerings and welcoming ambience are draws for both locals and visitors. In addition, its preservation and continued vitality are important for reasons both economic and cultural.

In the early days of Singapore’s history, Sir Stamford Raffles arrived on Singapore River and established a British trading outpost in 1819. For more than a century afterward, the river was Singapore’s main commercial lifeline. The Singapore River provided an ideal natural artery around which the city could flourish as trade ebbed and flowed across the archipelago.

Today, Singapore River has been reborn. Transformed from a working waterway to an attractive waterfront environment for housing, recreation, entertainment and commercial new developments have generated renewed activity, while conserved buildings lend charm and preserve the memory of the river’s past.

The River should be considered as Singapore’s best as it satisfies the needs of both locals and tourists alike. People who are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s city life can find tranquil and peace along the river. Shopaholics can suit their shopping desires by heading over to Clarke Quay Central or Liang Court which are just a stone’s throw away from the River. Additionally, those who are in search of having fun can party the night away at Clarke Quay, housing not only five blocks of restored warehouses house various restaurants and nightclubs, but also moored Chinese junk that have been refurbished into floating pubs and restaurants. Not only that, but foodies can also head down to Boat Quay, a vibrant dining and entertainment venue.

This place shows the true Singapore spirit as the river symbolises the start of Singapore’s foundation as it was the heart of Singapore’s trading and it reflects the heritage of our early days before Singapore prospered from a small fishing village to the bustling cosmopolitan city it is today.

I’m grateful for this place as I have attained fond memories from those I hold close to my heart. The quiet parts of the Singapore River, where the Kim Seng Park lies, is a place where I visit often when I am deep in thought and need a getaway from life's stresses. Occasionally, I would go hangout with close friends and walk along the riverside. As the lyrics to a famous local song go, "Let's go down to the riverside to see an unforgettable sight", indeed the Singapore River is a place that will linger around in everyone's minds.

Standing in front of Clarke Quay along the Singapore River