A Guide to Your Urban Retreat at Pearl’s Hill City Park
If you’re anything like me, someone who loves uncovering new places offering tranquillity, you’ll love Pearl’s Hill City Park. My first time there, I felt like I’d discovered a hidden oasis, a quiet escape from the busyness of the city.
In this guide, I’ll take you through some unique spots and experiences that make Pearl’s Hill City Park worth exploring, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
History & Background
Pearl’s Hill City Park dates back to the early 19th century when it served as a military site. It’s named after Captain James Pearl, a key figure in Singapore’s colonial history.
The hilltop reservoir, constructed in 1898, was integral in supplying water to Chinatown and remains a central feature of the park. While it also adds to the park’s scenic environment, its primary purpose remains operational rather than purely ornamental.
Things to Know
Location: Chin Swee Road & Pearl’s Hill Rd
Contact: +6518004717300
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Pet friendly? Yes, but pets must be kept on a leash.
Accessibility: Hilly terrain and steep slopes aren’t PWD-friendly
Amenities: Public toilets, benches, walking trails, reservoir
Rules and Regulations
✔ Clean up after pets
✔ Respect wildlife
✔ Follow park signage
✔ Leave the area as you found it
✖ No littering
✖ No loud noises
✖ No fishing or swimming
✖ No vandalism
✖ No motorised vehicles
✖ No smoking
How to Get to Pearl’s Hill City Park
Closest MRT: Take the MRT to Outram Park Station (EW16/NE3). From the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the park. Exit the station and follow the signs towards Pearl’s Hill Road.
You’ll pass by the Outram Community Hospital, and from there, just continue up the hill until you reach the park entrance.
Closest bus station: Alight at the nearest bus stop along Eu Tong Sen Street or New Bridge Road. Several bus services stop here, including 54, 124, 143, and 147.
From the bus stop, it’s just a short 5- to 10-minute walk. Head towards Pearl’s Hill Road, and you’ll find the park entrance as you walk uphill.
By car: Parking at Pearl’s Hill City Park is limited, but nearby options include the Outram Park Complex Car Park on Outram Road, Pearl’s Centre Car Park on Eu Tong Sen Street, and street parking along Chin Swee Road.
It’s easy enough to get around Singapore if you follow the tips mentioned in this guide.
What to Do
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Stumbling upon the hidden Pearl’s Hill Reservoir, nestled quietly at the park’s highest point, feels like uncovering a secret lagoon. Its calm waters mirror the surrounding greenery, offering stillness in the heart of the city.
The peacefulness of the reservoir drew me in, making it easy to forget that this serene spot still serves a functional purpose. Patches of bamboo and dense foliage of ferns along the edges enhance the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Look out for wildlife
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Consider bringing a trusty pair of binoculars because Pearl’s Hill City Park is a birdwatcher’s delight. My first time there, I already saw an olive-backed sunbird and an Oriental magpie flitting about in the trees.
Other forms of wildlife call this park home, too. From the playful squirrels darting between the trees to the occasional monitor lizard basking in the sun, the park feels alive with nature.
Wander through walking trails
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I found myself meandering along the winding paths, each turn revealing new sights—like the charming wooden bridges that cross over small streams, and the occasional stone steps that lead you deeper into the park’s greenery.
One of my favourite features was the shaded trail lined with towering rain trees, their branches forming a natural canopy that kept the sun at bay.
Along the way, I couldn’t resist pausing at one of the quiet benches tucked into a corner, perfect for taking in the peaceful surroundings or simply catching my breath.
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I was thrilled to stumble upon some hidden art installations that added an unexpected creative flair to the natural surroundings. One piece that caught my eye was a series of abstract stone sculptures tucked away near the reservoir.
Another delightful find was the artistic bench carved with intricate floral patterns, almost inviting you to sit and take in the serene atmosphere. These hidden gems are easy to miss if you’re not looking closely, but discovering them made my visit feel like a treasure hunt.
Admire the park’s heritage trees
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Some majestic heritage trees have stood tall for decades at the park, silently witnessing the city’s evolution.
The grand tembusu trees, with their distinctive gnarled branches and thick, sturdy trunks, were so awe-inspiring that I had to sit for a while looking up at them. I also came across a towering banyan tree, its roots cascading down in a dramatic display.
Pack a picnic
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The open areas near the park’s entrance offer flat, grassy patches ideal for a picnic, with easy access to the walking trails and scenic views. You can also spread out a blanket at the grassy knoll near the reservoir for a quiet meal.
Do some meditation or yoga
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The area around the reservoir is particularly peaceful, offering a quiet setting with the calming presence of water and surrounding greenery. Another great meditation spot is beneath the banyan tree, where the cascading roots create a natural, sheltered space.