Old Hill Street Police Station

What are the most recommended things to do in Old Hill Street Police Station?

The Old Hill Street Police Station is a historic building in Singapore that now serves as a government office and cultural space. While it's not a typical tourist attraction with exhibits or activities, visitors can admire its distinctive architecture, especially the colorful window shutters. It’s also a great place for photography, given its historic significance and unique aesthetic.


Introducing Old Hill Street Police Station

Built in 1934, the Old Hill Street Police Station, once a public hall, now houses the Ministry of Information and the Arts building and was renamed the Old Hill Street Police Station in 2012. The six-story building features arcades and a central courtyard, incorporating architectural elements popular in Britain at the time. The main structure boasts 927 dazzling windows, a vibrant interplay of warm and deep cool colors, creating an artistic atmosphere and a strong neoclassical style. The main courtyard, formerly a police training ground, has been converted into a central hall, suitable for hosting large-scale art exhibitions and performances.

Climate and best time to travel

All seasons are possible;

It is recommended to choose a sunny day so that the colors of the photos will look better.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

10:00-17:00 (Monday-Sunday)


Most Popular FAQs for Old Hill Street Police Station

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Old Hill Street Police Station was built in 1934 and originally served as a police station. It is a fine example of colonial architecture in Singapore. The building is notable for its vibrant, multi-colored window shutters, which set it apart from other historical buildings. Today, it houses various government offices and remains a prominent landmark in the city.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Old Hill Street Police Station is located at 140 Hill Street, Singapore 179369. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest MRT station being Clarke Quay (North East Line). From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk. You can also take a taxi or bus to reach the location.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

As the Old Hill Street Police Station houses offices, it is not typically open to the public for tours. However, you can visit the building's exterior anytime to admire its architecture. The best time to visit for photography or a quick view is during the day when the building is well-lit, especially in the late morning or early afternoon.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit the Old Hill Street Police Station, as it is a public building. Since there are no formal tours available, there is no need to purchase tickets.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required, as the Old Hill Street Police Station is not a ticketed attraction. However, if you wish to visit nearby attractions or dine in the area, it’s recommended to make reservations for restaurants or specific events in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting the Old Hill Street Police Station should only take about 15 to 30 minutes, as there is no official tour. Most visitors come to admire the building’s exterior and take photographs.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the building's facade, with its colorful, iconic window shutters. Since the interior is not accessible to the public, the exterior and surrounding area are the main points of interest.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There are no guided tours or audio guides available for the Old Hill Street Police Station, as it is primarily a government office building. Visitors can explore the exterior at their own pace.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spot is directly in front of the building, where you can capture the full extent of the colorful shutters. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photos, as the sunlight accentuates the colors and details of the building's architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Since the interior is not open to the public, a visit would typically involve a walk around the exterior of the building. It’s a quick stop, and you can also explore the nearby streets and landmarks, such as the Clarke Quay area, after visiting.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no specific night tours or light shows at the Old Hill Street Police Station. However, the building is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great spot for evening photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Old Hill Street Police Station is not typically crowded since it is not a traditional tourist attraction. The area around it may be busier during lunchtime or after working hours, especially as it is close to Clarke Quay, a popular dining and nightlife area.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are no specific facilities like toilets or shops inside the Old Hill Street Police Station. However, the nearby Clarke Quay area has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops for food and drinks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Old Hill Street Police Station is accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors for viewing its exterior. However, as there is no internal access or seating, it is a brief visit. The surrounding area, including nearby Clarke Quay, is also accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since the Old Hill Street Police Station is not a ticketed attraction, there is no need for cash. Nearby establishments, including cafes and restaurants, typically accept cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby dining options include "Riverside Point," which houses several restaurants and cafes along the river, as well as "The Central" mall, offering a variety of dining choices. For a quick bite, there are several cafes along Clarke Quay.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options in the nearby Clarke Quay area and Riverside Point, offering a variety of international cuisines including Asian, Western, and Middle Eastern fare.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include "The Fullerton Hotel Singapore," "Swissotel The Stamford," and "Clarke Quay Central," all of which are within walking distance of the Old Hill Street Police Station.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Clarke Quay, the Singapore River, the Asian Civilisations Museum, and the National Museum of Singapore. These can easily be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops at the Old Hill Street Police Station itself, but nearby areas such as Clarke Quay and the Central Mall have shops selling local souvenirs, including keychains, postcards, and traditional crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can easily continue your trip by taking the MRT from Clarke Quay Station or taking a bus. Taxis are also readily available in the area. If you're visiting nearby attractions, walking is also a good option as many are close by.