Gentle Road, Singapore
Gentle Road is a residential street located in the prestigious Novena Planning Area within District 11 of Singapore. Measuring approximately 653 metres in length, it connects to Gilstead Road at its eastern end and is surrounded by an enclave of landed houses and upscale condominiums. The road’s serene setting, combined with its proximity to Newton MRT Station (NS21) on the North South Line, makes it one of the most desirable addresses in central Singapore for both locals and expatriates seeking exclusivity and convenience.
Quick Facts
- Length: Approximately 653 metres
- Location: Novena Planning Area, District 11
- Eastern End: Gilstead Road
- Nearest MRT Station: Newton MRT Station (NS21)
- Postal District: 11
- Character: Tranquil residential street with luxury homes
History of Gentle Road
Gentle Road dates back to the early 20th century, a period when the Novena and Newton areas were gradually developed from plantations and estates into upscale residential neighbourhoods. The road was laid out as part of a network of streets intended for affluent families, particularly during the British colonial era, when proximity to town and large plot sizes made the area highly sought-after. Over the years, many of the colonial-style residences have been redeveloped into modern luxury houses, but the neighbourhood has retained much of its quiet charm.
Name and Etymology
The origin of the name “Gentle Road” is thought to be linked to the surname of a prominent colonial family or individual who lived in the area. It may also reflect the planners’ intention to create a peaceful and gentle living environment, in contrast to the bustling commercial areas nearby. While the exact etymology remains uncertain, the name has stood for decades as a distinctive reminder of Singapore’s colonial heritage.
Character of the Street
Today, Gentle Road is a picturesque residential street, characterised by tree-lined avenues, landed houses, and gated compounds. The homes here are largely freehold properties, ranging from semi-detached houses to sprawling bungalows, offering privacy and exclusivity. The atmosphere is calm and low-density, with little through traffic, making it ideal for families. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful environment coupled with excellent connectivity to the city centre.
Neighbouring Streets
Gentle Road is part of a cluster of residential roads in Novena. To the south lies Buckley Road, another premium address, while to the west are Chancery Lane and Evelyn Road. Its eastern connection to Gilstead Road leads towards Dunearn Road and Bukit Timah Road, two major arterial routes that link to Bukit Timah and the city core. The network of adjoining roads ensures that Gentle Road remains well connected without sacrificing its quiet, residential feel.
Notable Sights and Attractions
While Gentle Road itself is purely residential, its surroundings are rich in attractions. Newton Food Centre, one of Singapore’s most iconic hawker centres, is only a short walk away, offering a wide variety of local dishes. Shopping enthusiasts can head to nearby malls such as United Square, Velocity, and Novena Square. Healthcare facilities are also close by, with Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital located within the planning area. For families, the presence of reputable schools like Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) and St. Joseph’s Institution Junior further enhances the appeal of this neighbourhood.
Real Estate on Gentle Road
The real estate market along Gentle Road is among the most exclusive in District 11. As of 2025, landed properties here command prices between SGD 9 million and SGD 17 million, depending on land size and condition of the home1. Typical land plots range from about 3,800 sq ft (353 sq m) to over 7,000 sq ft (650 sq m). Rental prices are equally premium, with monthly rates between SGD 15,000 and SGD 25,000. These figures put Gentle Road well above the average property values in suburban areas like Ang Mo Kio or Geylang Planning Area, underscoring its status as a luxury residential address.
Transport and Connectivity
The closest MRT station is Newton MRT Station (NS21), which connects residents to the North South Line. From here, Orchard Road is just one stop away, while the Central Business District is within a 15-minute train ride. Bus stops are located along Gilstead Road and Dunearn Road, served by multiple routes that connect to different parts of the island. Motorists can easily access the Central Expressway (CTE), which links Novena to areas such as Toa Payoh, Bukit Merah, and the Marina Bay district.
Fun Facts
- Gentle Road is part of a collection of streets in Novena that retain colonial-era names, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Singapore’s past.
- It is one of the few residential streets in central Singapore where freehold landed properties dominate, adding to its long-term investment appeal.
- The street is particularly popular among expatriates and diplomats, many of whom are drawn by its large houses and proximity to international schools.
Map of Gentle Road, Singapore
References
Page Details
This page was created on 1 October 2025. Hi, my name is Timothy and created it from my research, for my own entertainment, knowledge and to satisfy my curiosity. I am providing the information to you in good faith and hope it is useful. I try to get the details as accurate as possible. I also try to update the page whenever I stumble on new details. So this and all my other pages are perpetual work in progress. If you discover any error, please politely inform me, pointing out where the error lies, and I will correct it as soon as possible. Your helpfulness will keep this page accurate, relevant and helpful to those who need the information.Streets of Singapore Directory
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