Dempsey Hill

Dempsey Hill is a leafy area of old army barracks across from the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Today the long, low buildings hold restaurants, cafés, bars and shops. It is a relaxed place for a long lunch, a quiet dinner or an evening drink.

The area is free to walk around, and it feels far from the busy city streets. Many people come here to eat, shop for furniture and art, or simply enjoy the trees.

What Is Dempsey Hill?

In the 19th century, the British built army barracks on this hill. The area was known as Tanglin Barracks. The main road, Dempsey Road, is named after Sir Miles Dempsey, a British general. Soldiers lived and trained here for many years.

After the British left, Singapore's own armed forces used the site for a long time. After the army moved out, the old blocks were slowly turned into a dining and shopping area. The buildings kept much of their simple colonial look.

Dempsey Hill is in our Nightlife section because it is popular in the evening. But it is just as pleasant by day, when the cafés and shops are open.

What to See and Do at Dempsey Hill

Most people come for food, but there is more to enjoy. Take time to walk around before you sit down to eat.

• Restaurants: choose from many kinds of food, from casual cafés to fine dining.
• Bars: enjoy a relaxed drink in a garden setting.
• Shops: browse furniture, homeware, art and antique stores.
• Walks: stroll the quiet roads and look at the old barrack blocks among the trees.

Many restaurants have outdoor seating among the trees. Some places are popular with families at weekends, thanks to the open space. In the evening, soft lights and cooler air make it a pleasant spot for dinner.

If you plan an evening out, drink in moderation and plan a safe way back to your hotel. Our guides to wine bars and cocktail bars have more ideas around the city.

How to Get to Dempsey Hill

Dempsey Hill is off Holland Road, across from the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The area is hilly and spread out, so many people arrive by taxi or ride-hailing car. Buses also run along Holland Road.

The closest MRT station is Napier on the Thomson-East Coast Line. From there, it is a walk of about 15 minutes, or a short bus ride along Holland Road. Our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore explains the basics.

Tips for Visiting Dempsey Hill

• Book ahead for dinner, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
• Bring insect repellent in the evening, as the area is green and leafy.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the roads are sloped.
• Plan a taxi or ride-hailing car home, as public transport is less direct here.
• Restaurants and shops change from time to time, so check that a place is open before you go.
• Drink in moderation and never drink and drive.

Food, Hotels and Things to Do Nearby

Dempsey Hill is part of our Dempsey, Tanglin and Holland area. Well-known restaurants in this area include Burnt Ends and Dempsey Cookhouse & Bar. For cheaper local food, Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre is a short ride away. See all our restaurants in Dempsey, Tanglin and Holland.

For hotels, Shangri-La Singapore and Four Seasons Hotel Singapore are both a short ride away. Compare more hotels in Dempsey, Tanglin and Holland.

Pair your visit with a morning walk in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, just across the road. Our Dempsey Hill and Holland Village guide covers the wider area. For more evening ideas, see our Nightlife section.

FAQs about Dempsey Hill

Is Dempsey Hill free to visit?

Yes, it is free to walk around. You only pay for food, drinks or shopping.

What is Dempsey Hill known for?

It is known for restaurants, cafés and bars in old army barracks. It also has furniture, art and antique shops.

Is Dempsey Hill good for families?

Yes, many places welcome families, especially at lunchtime. The open space and trees make it a relaxed choice.

How do I get to Dempsey Hill?

Most visitors take a taxi or ride-hailing car. Buses run along Holland Road, and Napier MRT station is about a 15-minute walk away.