The Golden Bell Mansion is a beautiful example of a Singapore landmark building. Located on a hilltop in a scenic setting, it was constructed in 1910 by the great grandson of Singaporean philanthropist Tan Tock Seng. 

Today, the Golden Bell Mansion is used as the Danish Seaman’s Church. The church is used not only for religious services, but also as a centre for many other activities for the Danish community – English lessons for children, coffee afternoons, and more.

 Join us at this picturesque setting where Mr. Roney Tan, a descendent of Tan Tock Seng, will share the fascinating history of this beautiful house. Then we fast forward to the present with Reverend Carl Bjarkam, the Port Chaplain telling us about the present role and activities of the Danish Seaman’s Church that bring the Danish community together. After that we will go on a tour of the Mansion.

You may like to end the morning with an optional lunch (at own cost) of typical Danish food cooked by the Church.

Do you know what a belimbing is and where to get it? How about a buah keluak – the nut some foodies call “black gold”? If you would like to find out, join us in this tour. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the morning wet market at Geylang Serai together with our guide. Chat with stall holders, and learn about local ingredients that you cannot find in supermarkets. There are also special, uncommon ones used in Malay and Indonesian cuisine which can only be found in this market. The walk will end with a light lunch to sample dishes you probably have not eaten before.

Take a walk with Explore Singapore! through the streets of Little India and see how Singapore’s Indian community prepares for Deepavali – the vibrant and unique festival of light.  FOM docent Abha Kaul will share with us the meaning of Deepavali, explaining the customs and traditions associated with this festival, which Hindus consider one of the most important to celebrate. Why is it called the festival of light?  What are the storys surrounding Deepavali or Diwali?  Not only is this a very festive and auspicious time but one which is associated with wonderful food.  Enjoy a light lunch together to conclude the programme (included in fee).

The little rocky hill and creek features of Labrador Park are an interesting nexus of many significant activities and events in Singapore's pre-modern and modern history.

For over a century, it was protected by a sophisticated series of defence fortifications. Today, we find a mix of interesting landmarks next to a nature reserve. 

Within an area of one square kilometre are sites that mark the journey of this island, once laced with coastal mangrove swamps, towards an ambitious, industrialised cosmopolitan port city. 

The park, the last nature reserve on the southern coastline, witnesses the migratory journeys of birds.

Let our guide take you on a walk through this area filled with nature and nostalgia. 

Want to find out more about our programmes? Click here to download a PDF .