Hong Lim Park: More Than Just Speakers’ Corner

Hong Lim Park: More Than Just Speakers' Corner
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Mention Hong Lim Park and the association with Speakers’ Corner may come to mind. However, there is more to this park in the middle of the financial district than being a place to air one’s views.


History: Dunman Green to Hong Lim Green to Hong Lim Park

History: Dunman Green to Hong Lim Green to Hong Lim Park

Hong Lim Park is one of Singapore’s earliest public parks. It was originally called Dunman’s Green after Thomas Dunman, Singapore’s first police superintendent. However, it was renamed Hong Lim Green in 1876; Chinese businessman Cheang Hong Lim bought the land and opened to the public.

The Green was used as a centre for recreational activities. First by the Straits Chinese Recreation Club and later by the Singapore Chinese Recreation Club and Singapore Cricket Club. During the Japanese Occupation, it was a venue for storytellers to perform. It was also the site for Chinese opera performances.


Year-end Holiday Camps: Discover Fun and Exciting Camps for Kids; Book Early

Night Trail: Join The “Canvas of Cultures” Trail on Saturday, 9 Nov

Singapore Recreation Club Family Carnival: Spend A Day at the Members-only Social and Sports Club on Sat, 9 Nov

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Till the late 1970s, it was the only large recreation space in Chinatown.

Speakers' Corner

On 1 September 2000, it also became Singapore’s first Speakers’ Corner.


Green Space in the City

Green Space in the City - Hong Lim Park

Today’s Hong Lim Park is still a large green space in the city. There is a stage for events and an IMPACT centre.

Fountain at Hong Lim Park

In a corner is an old fountain which still sprouts water at certain times of the day.

Kreta Ayer Neighbourhood Police Post

At the other end of Hong Lim Park is the Kreta Ayer Neighbourhood Police Post, which occupies the former North Canal Road Post Office. Located beside a small open air car park, the two-storey building has a wide pitched roof and an asymmetrical facade. It was repurposed as a Neighbourhood Police Post in 1990.

It is the oldest post office building still in existence in Singapore today.


Year-end Holiday Camps: Discover Fun and Exciting Camps for Kids; Book Early

Night Trail: Join The “Canvas of Cultures” Trail on Saturday, 9 Nov

Singapore Recreation Club Family Carnival: Spend A Day at the Members-only Social and Sports Club on Sat, 9 Nov

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Telegram for the latest updates.