Cavenagh Bridge, Singapore

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About Cavenagh Bridge

Cavenagh Bridge is a pedestrian bridge across the Singapore River. It connects Empress Place on the north bank to Fullerton Square on the south bank. It was built in 1870 and was opened in conjunction with the celebration of Singapore becoming a Crown colony with the abolishment of the British East India Company. It is the oldest bridge in Singapore in its original form.

When it was first built, Cavenagh Bridge was named the Edinburgh Bridge, to commemorate the visit of the Duke of Edinburgh. The name was later changed in honour of Major General William Oefeur Cavenagh (1820 - 1891), the last Governor of the Straits Settlements to be appointed directly from India, who served from 1859 to 1867. The Cavenagh family coat of arms is still displayed at both ends of the bridge.

Cavenagh Bridge was built to make it easier to cross the Singapore River. Otherwise, the other options were to either make a long detour via Elgin Bridge further upriver, or take a boat across. When Cavenagh Bridge was first opened, it was used by vehicular traffic such as rickshaws and bullock carts. Over time, the traffic across Cavenagh Bridge increased so much that another bridge had to be built within the immediate vicinity. Anderson Bridge was constructed to take the load off Cavenagh Bridge, after which it was used only for pedestrian crossing.

Befitting its role as a heritage structure, the Cavenagh Bridge was restored and beautified. Light fixtures were added in the 1990s to enhance its architectural beauty. Around the bridge are several sculptures including those of the Singapura cats, or kucinta, regarded as one of the smallest breeds of cats in the world.

Getting there

The nearest MRT stations are the Raffles Place Station (EW14 / NS26).

Associated Sites

Cavenagh Bridge (old version)

Where to stay

There is a wide selection of accommodation providers in Singapore. They range from budget inns and guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels and branded chains. Your choice is entirely dependent on your budget and level of comfort expected. For mainstream hotels, check out hotels in Singapore for the best online prices, sourced from all the major providers. For guesthouses and other budget providers, check out hostels in Singapore for those with online booking facilities.

Cavenagh Bridge (8 July 2006)
© Timothy Tye

Location Map of Cavenagh Bridge

Cavenagh Bridge
author: espion | Photos provided by Panoramio are under the copyright of their owners

Cavenagh Bridge
author: Kaz. | Photos provided by Panoramio are under the copyright of their owners

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Find Local Tours in Singapore

In a pricey destination such as Singapore, it is often more worthwhile to use a tour operator. Here are some local tours of Singapore which you may want to consider. They will save you time and expense having to go there yourself. As an independent traveler, you should select the tours you need to fit your own schedule. The tours are arranged by Viator, a big and reputable tour organisation, so you can peace of mind when placing your booking.

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