Once part of Singapore’s exclusive European Town, Beach Road was where only the wealthy elite could afford to live. Under Raffles’ Town Plan, ethnic communities were carefully segregated ‒ if you were Asian and working class, this area wasn’t for you. You were more likely to be found in Chinatown, Kampong Glam, or Little India.
Back then, the beach came right up to the road, and just 20 colonial seaside homes lined the shore ‒ luxurious residences reserved for the privileged few. Beach Road was elegant, stylish, and worlds apart from the bustling life along the Singapore River.
Today, very little remains to remind us of that coastal past. The sea has long since retreated, and skyscrapers have taken its place. But hidden among the modern buildings are stories waiting to be uncovered ‒ of seaside villas, early cinemas, and a way of life long gone.
Join Uncle Chris for a scenic heritage walk along the old beachfront. We’ll explore how Beach Road has evolved ‒ from the landing of early immigrants to the rise of Singapore’s first few cinemas, which once catered exclusively to the rich. We’ll uncover how this stretch, now surrounded by commercial offices, still holds whispers of its elite, colonial past.
This isn’t just another urban walk ‒ it’s a journey through layers of history, hidden in plain sight. Discover what most people miss as we read between the lines, peek into forgotten corners, and bring the past back to life.
We meet at City Hall MRT at 9:00am sharp on Sunday, 27 July 2025. Depending on the group’s pace and energy, we’ll end the tour around Golden Mile or Crawford Street, likely by 11:30am or noon.
Come with good walking shoes, a curious mind, and a love for stories that have shaped our city.
Let’s rediscover Beach Road ‒ where the beach once kissed the doorstep of colonial grandeur.
For reservations, contact:
UNCLE CHRIS WALKING TOURS
Chris WK Ng
T: 65 91814298
E: [email protected]
W: www.unclechrisdrivingholidays.com
Note:
• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.
• Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule.