Dairy Farm Nature Park

The Dairy Farm Nature Park is a magnificent nature park located in the Upper Bukit Timah area of Singapore. Spread across a thriving 63-hectare land, it is famous for nature trails, hiking, and the quarry. At the south-western end of the park lies the Singapore Quarry, a relaxing wetland and picturesque spot, serving as a prime spot for freshwater flora and fauna including the critically endangered little grebe bird. Gain knowledge about the changing landscape of the dairy farm and explore the wonders of nature through varied exhibits at the Dairy Farm Nature Park.

Although this park does not have cows anymore (as it is no longer a dairy farm), it still stands out from most parks in Singapore due to it being the place where the Wallace Education Centre resides. The Centre is Singapore's first field study hub for students and provides great opportunities for hands-on work and overwhelming experience. The Wallace Environmental Lab is also situated at Dairy Farm Nature Park, which is the primary structure in which all research studies, activities, etc., for students, is conducted.

Set in a rustic environment with multiple trails for hiking and biking, the 75-hectare Dairy Farm Nature Park offers a host of recreational activities and amenities such as a nature trail and former quarry. The park is known for the Wallace Education Centre which features a permanent exhibition on the renowned English naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace to honour his contributions to natural science. Arriving on 18 April 1854, Wallace used Singapore as a base to study the natural history of the Malay Archipelago for eight years. A contemporary of Charles Darwin, Wallace is the other “father” behind the theory of evolution. 

A venture into the Dairy farm nature park takes you into the upcountry and rustic surroundings reminding you of the good old days. Located in the upper portion of the Bukit Timah area, the park was initially a cowshed and now houses the Wallace Environmental learning lab. The park which is no longer a dairy farm is still visited by many people chiefly because it has beautiful lush surroundings.

Apart from that, the Wallace environmental learning lab provides ample opportunities for visitors to learn about the place and dairy farming techniques. The entire park has beautiful spots to relax and take pictures but the south-western portion is specially a rejuvenating wetland and a great spot for photography.

The area is a habitat for beautiful flora to bloom and also some endangered species like grebe bird to thrive. The Park also offers many recreational activities like hiking and biking apart from taking elaborate treks. Nature lovers will love this place for its sheer beauty. The Wallace education centre and Wallace trail are named after Alfred Wallace to honour his contributions to the field of science. 

Interesting Sights at Dairy Farm Nature Park

The most popular walking trail called the Wallace trail is located at the dairy farm park. The trails are extremely beautiful and breezy with thick forests welcoming you to explore it further. Your path will be filled with an exquisite collection of flora and fauna. There are two routes which you can embark on. One is the short route which is about 1 km and the long route which is a 2 km venture into the jungle.

As you proceed in the trail you will be able to see the remainder of the Kampong Village. You can click photos here and envision Singapore heritage here. When you proceed further, you will love the sight of the Cempedak tree which is a natural Velcro standing sturdy and strong. This nature's trail will surely be a walk to remember. 

Activities at Dairy Farm Nature Park

The Rustic looking park is a treasure trove of great activities that one can do while you are there. We have listed for you some of the most interesting activities that one can do here:

1. Trekking and Hiking: 

Some of the most memorable times are spent when you walk on your feet relishing everything that comes your way. The Wallace’s trail promises to be a fun and joy trek especially when you are with a group of people. The nature park also organised hiking trips for a large group of people. There are designated ways with which you can explore the routes. Such trips are a great way to enjoy every inch of space and its offerings. 

2. Mountain Biking: 

There is a separate mountain biking trail at the park designated for biking enthusiasts. The visitors who opt for mountain biking should be sure enough to follow all the instructions to the T. There is no scope of walking around the trail.Feel physically agile in addition to enjoying the beautiful visions that welcomes you.

3. Bring out the artist in you: 

This is one of the activities enthusiastically followed by people which is held once a month. Bring out the artist in you while you sketch and draw the scenic surroundings that add colours to your life. 

4. Photography: 

The sights here are so spectacular that one will be coerced to capture them. The natural habitat at the park is a great spot for taking pictures. You cannot help but get immersed in the beautiful world of greenery and the vibrant energies surrounding you.

Wallace Trail

Constructed in 2009 and subsequently extended in 2020, the Wallace Trail is a 2.2 km nature trail dedicated to Alfred Russel Wallace that stretches from Hillview MRT station to the Wallace Education Centre. In 1854, Wallace stopped over in Singapore during his journey to the Malay Archipelago, and collected many species of beetles in the vicinity of the Dairy Farm site. 

On this trail, discover the flora and fauna of Dairy Farm Nature Park through Wallace’s eyes while simultaneously learning about the history of the area through artefacts from the past. Don’t forget to check out the unobstructed view of the surrounding secondary forest from the new viewing deck.

The most famous walking trail at Dairy Farm Nature Park, the Wallace Trail winds through a forested area filled with fascinating flora and fauna and areas reflecting the heritage of Singapore. The trail has two routes - a short route which goes on for roughly 1km, or the long route, which is 2 km long.

See the remnants of kampong or village, as they once were, following the first trail. The walls and houses are a prime example of the past civilisation and Singapore’s heritage. A little further a Cempedak Tree, which is a natural Velcro and very often used in the past, is still standing. The Durian tree or the figs, apples and bracket fungus also add to the rustic atmosphere.

Restaurants near Dairy Farm Nature Park

1. Dairy Farm Japanese Cuisine: 

To tease your taste buds with pure Asian and Japanese delights, the restaurant is an absolute must-visit. The theme of the restaurant encourages a lot of experimental and fusion dishes. The presentation of the dishes is amazing and inviting. 

2. Sam’s Cottage: 

A great place to hang out, you will find an amalgamation of reasonable food and drinks. You will find delectable dishes from Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines which the restaurant specialises in. 

3. Tenryu Dining: 

This is a specialised Japanese food joint that operates within the limit of the Dairy farm. This is yet another wonderful place for authentic Japanese food and is an apt place for families to enjoy their dinner.

4. The Beast: 

A typical American restaurant with loads of American dishes and cheap beer, the Beast is increasingly catching up on the taste buds of Singapore. The weekend brunch menu is elaborate and the place also has a separate bar and pub. Overall, this place is really enjoyable especially with the music playing in the background.

5. Gelare at Hillion Mall: 

The place is a paradise for those who have a sweet tooth. It has a great range of waffles, gourmet ice-cream and much more. Beyond desserts, you will also find a wide variety of sandwiches, pasta and other sidekicks that will provide a complete experience. 

Hotels near Dairy Farm Nature Park

The Park is located in the prime area of visit, there are many hotels located in the vicinity of it.

1. The Orchard Hotel: 

The property is an absolute delight with bars, lounges, evening entertainment clubs and much more. It is a short walk from the MRT station and has been enhanced in terms of space and ideation. The Hotel also features an Olympic sized swimming arena with a life-size chess board for entertainment. 

2. Park Avenue Rochester Hotel: 

The contemporary business hotel has well-designed and serviced rooms with tastefully done interiors and furniture. The place also has a great selection of food varieties and a happening pub. The place is also surrounded by hip and happening marketplace and other eat outs. 

3. Good wood Park Hotel: 

One of Singapore's most known heritage properties, this 5-star hotel is beautiful amidst nature. The place earlier was a national monument which later got converted into a heritage hotel. The best part about the abode is that much of the ancient architecture and designs have been retained to give the hotel that royal touch. 

4. Park Hotel Alexandra: 

The Hotel is synonymous with a comfortable stay and modern comprehensive services. You will love to come here often because the hotel is located very close to nature and away from the hustle and bustle. 

5. Hotel Ibis: 

This hotel offers trendy solutions to a comfortable stay. You will find this place extremely famous for its grills and bakes. It is also close to many other sight-seeing options and offers good deals on food and stay.

Essential information

• The park extends to 63 hectares and is admissible for visitors from 7.00 AM to 7.00 PM. 

• It is located along the Dairy farm road and is easily accessible by all means of transport.

• The actual location of the farm is on the 100 dairy farm road in the upper portion of Bukit Timah reserve in Singapore. 

Tips for Visiting Dairy nature farm park

• Be dressed in comfortable clothes which will aid you in trekking. 

• Wear comfortable and trek friendly shoes. Heels and boots are not recommended.

• The park has the facility of taking the wheelchair.

• No pets are allowed to be taken inside the park.

• Monkeys are to be left alone. They are not meant to be fed because they might then get out of control.

• Always ensure that you check the reports of the weather conditions beforehand because the trail becomes extremely dangerous during storms.