Looking for a place to wind down with your favourite read together with a cup of tea or coffee? Have a go at these 6 spots for a relaxing afternoon, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
1. The Reading Room
Image credit: Where To Eat SG
Nestled within a quaint shophouse along Bukit Pasoh Road, The Reading Room is a book cafe by day and a lively bar by night. Bookworms and foodies co-exist in harmony here - grab a book from the towering bookshelves while tucking into some comfort food. Cosy and unassuming, the decor makes you feel right at home. A perfect brunch spot for a whimsical morning!
Address: 19 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089833
2. Looksee Looksee
Thirsty for a good book and a cup of tea? Drop by Looksee Looksee, a public reading room and tea salon at Beach Road, for an instant boost to your hipster quotient. Visitors can browse through a book collection curated by movers and shakers across Singapore’s creative industries, including artists, designers and chefs.
While reading, sip on hot or cold blended teas from local specialty tea company A.muse Projects. You can pay by tipping any amount!
Address: 267 Beach Road, Singapore 199545
3. The Book Cafe
Tucked away in a corner of Martin Road, The Book Cafe provides a comfortable refuge for bookworms, students or office workers seeking a quiet and productive afternoon. Grab your favourite book, a cup of tea, and enjoy the afternoon in comfort on their couches.
Address: #01-02, Seng Kee Building, 20 Martin Road, Singapore 239070
4. BooksActually
Fans of Singapore literature are likely to be familiar with BooksActually, one of Singapore’s first independent bookstores. This quirky bookstore houses a diverse collection of Singapore literacy publications. Spend an idle afternoon here and discover hidden literary gems from our talented local writers.
While customers can’t actually sit down and lepak (relax) while reading, you can always visit one of the many cafes nearby in Tiong Bahru.
Address: No. 9 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168645
5. Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Nanyang Technological University might be known for its ‘ulu’ (out of the way) location in the West, but it also boasts plenty of chill-out areas that are open to the public. The Hive is the most iconic building on campus, with the appearance of several stacks of dim sum baskets. This might just be the place for a quiet spot to immerse yourself in the latest book you are reading!
Address: 50 Nanyang Ave, Singapore 639798
6. Botanic Gardens
With its lush greenery and tranquil environment, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the perfect spot for a picnic and a good book. Reading at this UNESCO World Heritage site will also be a one-of-a-kind experience for those who love nature and literature alike.
Parents looking for an educational day out can also bring their children for free storytelling sessions jointly organised by the Singapore Botanic Gardens and National Library Board. The Reading With Nature series includes a tour around the garden, so children can enjoy exploring nature too!
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Organised by the National Library Board, the National Reading Movement (NRM) is an annual event which celebrates reading and inspires Singaporeans to read widely. This listicle is part of MCI’s new #MCIRecommends series in conjunction with this year’s NRM.