Clarke Quay

About this place

Clarke Quay is a historic quay on the Singapore River, upstream from the river mouth and Boat Quay. It is now among the liveliest spots in the city by evening, with colourful old buildings, modern canopies and restaurants on the water, and river cruises leave from here. It takes its name from Sir Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second governor and Governor of the Straits Settlements from 1873 to 1875, who worked to make the city the main port for the Malay states. It was once a place of river trade, with small boats landing firewood from Indonesia here. It later changed from warehouses into a dining and entertainment area. Restored warehouses stand in pink, blue and yellow, and huge canopies over the shaded streets keep off rain and heat. Traditional timber boats in bright colours line the bank, and footbridges cross the water. Lights glow on the river after sunset, changing the picture completely from the calm of the daytime. It is 500 m in a straight line from the Peranakan Museum and 1 km from Esplanade. It is best visited near sunset, followed by a walk along the river. Many bars and restaurants serve alcohol and music gets loud at night, so choose your time accordingly, particularly with family, and look up halal restaurants in advance if you need them.