Kent Ridge Park, Singapore

One of the great things about living here in Singapore is the abundance of public parks and other green, open spaces.  Whether it's simply just strolling along or taking a creative photowalk with the Husband, places like these have always been a refuge and source of calm whenever I overwhelmed with everyday living.

One of the parks we frequent, mainly because of its proximity to our home before (literally located right at our own backyard), is Kent Ridge Park.

Kent Ridge Park, Singapore

The 47-hectare Kent Ridge Park has a vast history.  Originally used for agricultural purposes by the first settlers of the Lion City in the early 19th century, it has then seen itself transformed into a ridge full of plantations (most famous of which was at Opium Hill, now Bukit Chandu, where the British East India Company once set up an opium processing plant) to its transformation as a fortress used by the British during World War II.

Pathway

The area is, in fact, the site of the famous Battle of Bukit Chandu, one of the last battles fought before the Lion City fell to the hands of the Japanese.  A museum called Reflections of Bukit Chandu, was developed to serve as a reminder of the lives lost and the nation's experiences during the war (more in detail in the next post).

Reflections at Bukit Chandu

Today, Kent Ridge Park is a serene, peaceful place; providing a clean, fresh area for joggers (both early in the am and late at night), nature and photography lovers, or simply anyone wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Plenty of seats

Truly a haven away from all the stress.  J

Flowers

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Kent Ridge Park
Singapore
W     http://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/index.php?option=com_visitorsguide&task=parks&id=20&Itemid=73



Planning to visit?  Drop by my "Getting Around Singapore" post (click here) for more details on how to get around the Lion City.