Singapore maybe one of the smallest countries in the world. Even so, there is still a great quantity of unknown territories yet to explore. Besides, avid runners like yourselves may want to seek out different locations to run at as running within the same parks and reservoirs could be pretty boring.
Thus, lace up your shoes and check out these 5 unusual places in Singapore you can run in but don’t know about.
1. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital
How is it possible to run in the hospital? Is it the gym? Or the treadmills? Or could it be a running track within the hospital?
As weird as it seems, it is technically true that you are able to run within Khoo Teck Puat Hospital. However, it is Yishun Pond Park we are referring to. This smoke-free park is located directly beside the hospital, providing an ease of access when running. On the other hand, take a break on the many benches provided and enjoy the serenity of the lake.
If you are thinking that you would be able to run wild within the hospital, we apologise. But hey, at least there are food courts and eateries at your convenience when feeling famished.
How to get there?
By foot: A 10 minutes walk from Yishun MRT Station.
By car: Short drive to KTP Hospital, and walk from there.
By public transport: There’s actually a shuttle service. Either way take to Yishun MRT Station and walk.
2. Champions Way
Have you heard of this legendary road? To residents residing around Woodlands, “Champions Way” is simply just a normal street name. However, anyone from the Singapore Sports School perceives it as something greater. This street was initially a project for the school’s Value-In-Action initiative, which italicise the significance of a Champion for Others by giving back to the society and aiding the less fortunate.
Nevertheless, the main attraction would be running along or up the luscious grassland, which is located beside both the Singapore Sports School and Innova Junior College. Do remember to bring along your camera as the scenery up there is worth snapping.
How to get there?
By foot: Find your way towards either Singapore Sports School or Innova Junior College.
By car: Drive along Woodlands Ave 4.
By public transport: Take MRT towards Woodlands MRT Station and take bus 900A, alight along both schools.
3. Pipeline Trails
You would know that Malaysia supplies Singapore with water, but have you seen the water pipelines? The majority of these pipes is actually buried underground. However, there are some pipelines, which are fully functioning, above the surface along the SLE (Seletar Expressway). This trail traces the passage from Bukit Panjang to Woodlands, or Vice versa.
Things to take note:
- Follow the pavements
- Ensure to be hydrated
- The trail is largely unmarked
- Snap some pictures with the pipelines
- There’s not a lot of informations about the trail online
- Bring along your GPS (Global Positioning System) to prevent from getting lost
How to get there?
By foot/car: Find your way towards Woodlands or Bukit Panjang and start your trail.
By public transport: North-South Line towards (Woodlands) and Downtown Line towards (Bukit Panjang).
4. Coney Island
HBD Buildings, Shopping Malls, Community Centers and Highway Roads… Compared to the mainland, Coney Island is a secluded area along the North East coastal lines of Singapore. It is mainly known for its undeveloped, natural and wildlife environment where visitors are left to pace themselves and take a breather from their busy lives.
Once in a while, there will be wildlife such as birds, chickens, otters and even monkeys roaming around the island freely!
Things to take note:
- Keep your hydration level in check
- Camera for potential Insta-worthy shots
- Insect repellents to swat away the mosquitoes
- Wear long pants and covered shoes for protection from sandflies
- Toilet Location – there’s only one at the east entrance
- Light is scarce, it will be close to pitch black at night
- The island closes at 7 pm
- Most Importantly: Do be careful on the island
How to get there?
By foot: Walk/Run/Cycle via the West Entrance (near Punggol Promenade Nature Walk) or the East Entrance (near Lorong Halus Wetlands).
By car: No matter Taxi/Grab service, drop along Punggol Settlement and from there on just follow the signs to Coney Island.
By public transport: Take a train and alight at Punggol Station, head towards the bus interchange (via exit c). Board bus 84, alight at Punggol Road End, walk over to Punggol Settlement and from there on just follow the signs to Coney Island.
5. Pulau Ubin
Trail running at Pulau Ubin! However, you would need to travel there via boats. Located on the Northeast mainland of Singapore, Pulau Ubin is common to the cycling enthusiast. That doesn’t mean that runners are not allowed to run, in fact, there are trails and footpaths tracing quarries and traditional Kampong villages.
With support from the island stakeholders, visitors are able to cherish the island’s esteemed heritage and alluring culture up close. Not to mention, the island visit is not complete without trailing up the tidal flats and mangroves of the Chek Jawa Wetlands and the Jejawi observation tower. Make sure to plan your road carefully.
Things to take note:
- Payment for boat is only $3 CASH
- Time of boats before sailing
- Keep your hydration level in check
- Camera for potential Insta-worthy shots
- Insect repellents to swat away the mosquitoes
- Food stall are available at the front of the island
- Watch out for cars/trucks on the same path passing through
How to get there?
By foot: Walk towards Changi Point Ferry Terminal and take a bump boat towards the island.
By car: For those that are driving, a large, open-air car park is available just outside the Terminal.
By public transport: Take Bus 2 and head down to Changi Village, then find your way towards the Ferry Terminal.
Are you a frequent runner? What other interesting or unusual places would you recommend to run at instead? Share with us your thoughts!
