Singapore is often known for its active life, parties and tall buildings. However, it is home to yet another architectural feat - it houses some of the most artistic bridges, often with fascinating histories.
Here is the list of 11 most spectacular bridges in Singapore that one must definitely explore:
1. Cavenagh Bridge
The Cavenagh Bridge in Singapore sprawling across Singapore River One of the oldest and most recognizable bridges in Singapore, the Cavenagh Bridge is the only suspension bridge which spans the lower reaches of the Singapore River. One of the first suspension bridges in Southeast Asia, it stands as a major tourist attraction which people love to visit to enjoy a peaceful walk in solitude or to simply stand and watch the ferries pass by. The Cavenagh bridge was built in 1868, on the Singapore River. An 80-metre long bridge, it is named after Sir Lieutenant General William Orfeur Cavenagh, who was the last India-appointed Governor of the Straits Settlement. Thus, it became a pedestrian bridge. This bridge, which is about 80 meters long, is a spectacle as lights adorn it in the night.
Location: 1 Fullerton Square, Singapore 049178 Total length: 79.25 m Width: 9.45 m Longest span: 60.96 m Crosses: Singapore River Type: Pedestrian Opened: 1869
2. Helix Bridge
SourceThe Helix Bridge is considered one of the most prominent landmarks in Singapore, and you can’t miss it. This architectural wonder is a double helix, built in stainless steel, which connects Marina Center with Marina South in the Marina Bay area. 280-meters long, one can witness the beautiful Singapore skyline while walking on the longest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. Inaugurated for pedestrian use in 2010 the bridge is a favourite tourist destination because there are several attractions nearby. The stunning edifice shines dazzlingly at night by ribbons of LED lighting, turning it into a popular tourist attraction.
Location: Downtown Singapore Total length: 280m (918 ft) Crosses: Marina Bay Type: Pedestrian Opened: 2010
3. Elgin Bridge
The Elgin Bridge at night illuminated in psychedelic colours
The Elgin Bridge connects what today called the North Bridge Road, and the South Bridge Road is. Named after James Bruce, the 8th Earl of Elgin, it was built in 1862. The Elgin Bridge was the first permanent bridge of Singapore, built across two rivers.
Location: Along South Bridge, North Bridge Rd, Singapore Total length: 46 metres Width: 25 m Crosses: Singapore River Type: Pedestrian and Vehicular Opened: 1862
SourceThe Henderson Waves is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, at the height of 36 meters above the ground. Mimicking the shape of undulating waves of an ocean, with curves and twists along its 247-meter length. Its ‘waves’ consists of a series of ‘ribs’ jutting out of the structure to give it a rugged look. This stunning piece of architecture connects the lush Telok Blangah Hill Park with the sprawling Mount Faber Park. The ridges in the bridge allow for hidden recesses and niches, where walkers can sit, relax, and take in the view. It is illuminated with bright, psychedelic lights till 2.00 AM, rendering a different charm altogether.
Location: Henderson Road, Singapore Total length: 8 metres Width: 25 m Type: Pedestrian Opened: 2008
5. Jubilee Bridge
SourceAlmost every famous bridge in Singapore comes with an exciting nugget of historical background. The Jubilee Bridge is a commemoration of Singapore’s Golden Jubilee and was opened to the public on March 29, 2015. With a length of 220 meters, the bridge was opened on the day of the state funeral procession of Singapore’s founding father, Lee Kuan Yew. It is said that the late Mr Lee who himself suggested building another walkway across the Singapore River, to decrease the pedestrian traffic on the Esplanade Bridge. The Jubilee Bridge overlooks some of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore and is a tourist favourite, who enjoy looking at the illuminating Singaporean skyline.
SourceThe Alkaff Bridge is situated on the Singapore River, at Robertson Quay. It was built in 1997, but its beautification, for which it is called the Singapore Art Bridge, happened only in 2004 by Filipino artist Pacinta Abad. The bridge is painted with 55 colours, using 900 litres of paint! The bridge is named after the Arab Alkaff family, which used to be the wealthiest family in Singapore in the 20th century. The Alkaff Bridge is one of the most striking bridges in Singapore, so one must visit it while there. There is no entry fee. This 55 meters long pedestrian bridge is built in the shape of a “tongkang”, a light boat that was used to transport goods along Singaporean rivers in the country's early days.
Location:1 Havelock Rd, Singapore Total length: 55 metres Width: 25 m Crosses: Singapore River Type: Pedestrian Opened: 1997
7. Benjamin Sheares Bridge
SourceThe Benjamin Sheares bridge is a mammoth project engulfed in Singapore’s patent architectural eminence. Named after the second president of Singapore, Benjamin Sheares Bridge is 1.8 kilometres long and is 29 meters at its highest point. It has eight lanes and a pair of 2-meter wide pedestrian walkways. It is built over the Kallang basin and the Singapore river, and its tall height is to allow ships to pass through the waterbody, to and from the repair of the vessel yards in Tanjong Rhu. Best Experience Opened for public use on 26th September 1981, the Benjamin Sheares Bridge and provides for a spectacular view for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Location: Sheares Avenue, Singapore Total length: 1.8 km Height: 29 m Crosses: Marina Reservoir Type: Pedestrian and Vehicular Opened: 1981
8. Esplanade Bridge
SourceOpened in 1997, the Esplanade for the longest time bore the weight of a lot of pedestrians and vehicular traffic in Singapore. This 280-meter long road bridge spans across the Singapore River, connecting the Marna Bay with Singapore's financial district, Shenton Way. It supports two four-lane carriageways and footpaths on both sides. Best Experience An arch bridge, the Esplanade provides for the perfect photo-op and walking path on a cold, breezy evening.
Location: Downtown Core, Marina Bay, Singapore Total length: 280 metres Width: 46 m Crosses: Marina Bay Type: Pedestrian and Vehicular Opened: 1997
9. The MacRitchie TreeTop Suspension Bridge
SourceThe MacRitchie Reservoir Park houses the famous TreeTop Walk, 25 meters above the forest floor. Located in the heart of the city, this aerial, free-standing walkway connects the two highest points of the reserve. It is 250 meters long and provides a beautiful panoramic view of the forest reserve, as well of the nearby Upper Peirce Reservoir. The treetop suspension bridge in Singapore is one of the most picturesque places to witness the panoramic vista. Gazing down onto numerous species of life, while soaking in the lush greenery surrounding the bridge is the most mesmerising experience at the MacRitchie treetop suspension bridge.
Location: 601 Island Club Road, Singapore Length: 250 metres Heighest Point: 25 m
10. Sentosa Suspension Bridge
SourceA relaxing, yet exhilarating experience that can be shared with loved ones. The Sentosa Suspension Bridge in itself is quite narrow, and only a few feet above the water. However, it’s quite a shaky bridge, so one must be careful while crossing it. Located on the Palawan beach, in Sentosa, this suspension bridge provides a very thrilling experience for visitors - as one crosses over the bridge, one would find oneself standing at the Southernmost tip of Continental Asia, and the nearest to the equator. This point is, in fact, a small island, overlooking the South China Sea. Here, there are two towers with the most beautiful vantage points, to enjoy the picturesque sunsets.
Location: Palawan Beach, Sentosa, Singapore
11. Bukit Timah Railway Bridge
SourceA living reminder of Singapore’s railway history and heritage, The Bukit Timah railway station was decommissioned and put out of use in 2011. However, it still stands and has now been converted into a beautiful walking path, as part of a Green Corridor project. The old, black iron railway bridge is the perfect place to begin one’s journey into Singapore’s railway history, and to see some interesting relics on the way. The truss bridge is still intact, as are some of the railways, and is an excellent place to click pictures in its old-world charm.
Location: Blackmore Drive, Bukit Timah, Singapore
Singapore is a blooming bundle of new excitements and activities. Spare some time and relax at these breathtaking bridges in Singapore!
