A new audio tour has been launched to bring the storied heritage of Dempsey Hill to life. This enclave, just a five-minute drive from Singapore’s main thoroughfare, Orchard Road, was once the site of British military barracks dating back to the 1860s. Today, it is home to restaurants, grocers, art galleries, and lifestyle shops.
“The idea for this immersive audio tour came from our experience with conducting heritage tours here that are usually guided,” shared Kee Luah, marketing consultant for Dempsey Hill, Ginger Consultancy.
“These tours have always been incredibly popular, often selling out within just two hours of launch. We wanted to offer something more flexible, so we created a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore at their own pace and on their own schedule. The app lets visitors pause at various destinations to enjoy a break, such as a brunch, before continuing on to the remaining historical spots,” she added.
The audio tour, available on the Cinewav app and Klook platform, guides visitors through various points of interest around Dempsey Hill, including the barracks built during Singapore’s colonial era. Visitors will learn about the transformation of these former army barracks into the vibrant lifestyle destination the area has become.
“By offering a self-guided option, we aim to appeal to those looking for a more independent and flexible way to explore heritage sites. This flexibility makes the experience more personalised and convenient for our visitors,” said Luah.
Beyond the tour, she shared how the area continues to market its offerings to attract both local and international tourists. These efforts include collaborations with local artists and musicians to host pop-up events, the incorporation of art installations, and regular partnerships with tenants to provide a wide variety of dining experiences, as well as collaborations with bank partners for promotions.
There are also regular events that draw visitors, such as the annual Motoring Heritage Day, which features vintage cars, and the Latadina Festival, Singapore’s largest Latin American food and music festival.
“This combination makes Dempsey Hill an attractive place not only for locals and expatriates but also for tourists looking for a unique experience in Singapore. Its mix of heritage and modernity significantly contributes to the country’s tourism appeal, offering visitors an authentic and tranquil escape right in the heart of the city,” concluded Luah.
