The new Stage 4 of the TEL opened on 23 June to much fanfare, with Minister Mariam Jaafar leading a group of Woodlands residents and friends from the NTUC Health Kampung Admiralty Active Ageing Centre on a train ride to East Coast Park for a delightful picnic by the sea.
With new MRT stations like Tanjong Rhu, Siglap, and Marine Parade MRT Station now open, exploring the eastern heartlands has never been more convenient. Families will find the stations easy to navigate, with more lifts, multiple entrances, and full wheelchair access to ensure comfortable travel for both elderly and young children.
The upcoming opening of seven new TEL MRT stations will further enhance connectivity, making it easier for everyone to access popular areas and schools.
Photo credit: Land Transport Authority
Exploring the Thomson-East Coast Line
The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) is a game-changer for Singapore’s MRT network, stretching 43 kilometres and connecting the northern and eastern parts of the island. This extensive line runs from Woodlands North to Upper East Coast, passing through bustling districts like Upper Thomson, Orchard Road, Marina Bay, Kallang, Marine Parade, and Bedok. With 32 stations along its route, the TEL offers a faster and more convenient travel option, cutting journey times by up to 50% compared to existing routes.
What sets the TEL apart is its innovative design and features. The line is fully underground and completely driverless, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey for all passengers. The TEL is served by the Mandai Depot, with the East Coast Integrated Depot set to open in 2026, further enhancing its operational capabilities.
Stations and Accessibility
The TEL is designed with accessibility and convenience in mind, featuring several stations that cater to the needs of all commuters. With eight interchanges connecting to major lines such as the East-West Line (EWL), North-South Line (NSL), North East Line (NEL), Circle Line (CCL), Downtown Line (DTL), and the future Cross Island Line (CRL), transferring between lines has never been easier. This seamless connectivity allows passengers to travel effortlessly across the island.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has gone the extra mile to ensure that TEL stations are inclusive and accessible, implementing features such as larger fonts on station signs, sharper contrast, and more braille text to assist the visually impaired. Hearing enhancement systems at passenger service centres and additional lifts and station entrances make the TEL stations user-friendly for those with mobility challenges. These thoughtful design elements ensure that everyone can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience on the Thomson-East Coast Line.
Community Engagement and Development
The Thomson-East Coast Line is more than just a transportation project; it’s a catalyst for community engagement and development. Take the Marine Parade MRT station, for instance. Designed as a community hub, it offers a range of amenities and services, including a community centre, a library, and numerous retail and dining options. This makes Marine Parade a vibrant and bustling hub of activity, benefiting both residents and commuters.
Here are our top picks for senior-friendly excursions in the east, all accessible via the TEL.
Activities Near Tanjong Rhu MRT Station (TE23) on the Thomson-East Coast Line
Take a Stroll Along the Tanjong Rhu Promenade
2-minute walk from Tanjong Rhu MRT Station
Photo credit: National Library Board
This tranquil spot is home to the iconic Tanjong Rhu Lookout Tower and features a park connector route that leads to the beautiful Bay East Garden — a lesser-known but stunning section of Gardens by the Bay.
Soak in the panoramic views from the four-storey tower and unwind with a relaxing picnic by the waterfront. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the family of otters who’ve taken up residence in the Kallang Basin!
Take a 12-minute leisurely stroll to get to Bay East Garden, where you can admire the lush greenery and gorgeous lotus and reed ponds. Wide and flat pathways make this route perfect for wheelchair users and seniors looking to enjoy an easy walk. Be sure to take frequent water breaks and make pit stops along the way to keep everyone energised and comfortable!
Address: Tanjong Rhu Promenade Park Connector, 136 Tanjong Rhu Rd, Singapore 436921
Operating hours: 24 hours
Play a Game of Giant Chess at the Singapore Sports Museum
8-minute walk from Tanjong Rhu MRT Station
Photo credit: Sports Hub Singapore
Challenge your loved ones to an unforgettable game of giant chess on the rooftop of the Singapore Sports Museum!
Players engage in a battle of wits and stamina as they move giant (but lightweight) chess pieces across a jumbo-sized board. It’s a fantastic way for seniors to flex both their mental and physical chops while spending quality time with family. Don’t forget to capture the memories with plenty of Instagram-worthy photos and videos!
Do pre-book your free sessions here at least a week in advance, as they fill up quickly due to the game's popularity.
After the action, recharge at one of the many eateries at the nearby Kallang Wave Mall. Before calling it a day, swing by the mall’s sports-themed FairPrice Xtra to grab some fresh groceries and stock up on healthy snacks for your next adventure!
Address: Singapore Sports Museum Rooftop, 6 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397698
Operating hours: Mon to Sun, 7AM to 10PM
Roll into Action with Lawn Bowling at the Singapore Sports Hub
8-minute walk from Tanjong Rhu MRT Station
Photo credit: Sports Hub Singapore
This easy-to-learn, low-impact game is one of the most inclusive team sports out there. Anyone who can roll a ball can join in, making it accessible to even young children and individuals in wheelchairs.
Gameplay is simple: the goal is to roll weighted balls towards the smaller target ball, known as the jack. Claim victory by getting your balls as close as possible to the jack. You’re now ready to play!
The best part? You can try it at no cost with a booking here. Before proceeding to the game venue, grab your free rental equipment at the Visitors Centre separately.
To ensure safe play for everyone, exercise caution with the weighted balls. Avoid stopping moving balls with your hands. For those who prefer more guidance, keep an eye out here for free lessons with the Singapore National Sport Association for Lawn Bowling.
Address: Singapore Sports Hub, 6 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397698
Operating hours: Mon to Sun, 7AM to 10PM
Visitors Centre (Equipment Rental)
Operating hours: Mon to Sun, 7AM to 10PM
Activities Near Marine Parade MRT Station (TE26)
Chow Down on Local Hawker Fare at the Marine Parade Food Centre
3-minute walk from Marine Parade MRT Station
Located just a stone’s throw away from Marine Parade MRT Station, the food centre is a destination in its own right. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the sheer range of food options here. Fan favourites include Kun Ji’s braised duck yam rice, Yok Mari Yok’s mee rebus, D’Authentic Nasi Lemak, and the delectable Emmanuel Peranakan Cuisine.
Got a sweet tooth? Don’t miss the famous Aziza Putu Piring, a Malay treat made with soft rice flour, filled with sticky gula melaka, and topped with freshly grated coconut. It’s simply delicious! The food centre is also equipped with wheelchair-friendly tables and priority seating, making it a perfect spot for seniors to dine comfortably.
Address: Marine Parade Central Food Centre, 84 Marine Parade Central, Singapore 440084
Operating hours: Mon-Sun, 7AM to 10PM (varies for individual stalls)
Level Up Your Family Fun at Timezone Arcade Parkway Parade
5-minute walk from Marine Parade MRT Station
Photo credit: Timezone Singapore
If you’re looking to spend quality time with the grandkids, be sure to check out the huge Timezone arcade located on the third floor of Parkway Parade Mall. It’s the ultimate spot for fun-filled intergenerational bonding!
With over 80 games catering to individuals of all ages, you’re bound to find something you enjoy here. Shoot for the top score at the basketball games to get your heart pumping, or show off your coordination skills at the drumming section.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, try on a virtual reality (VR) headset and sit back for a thrilling adventure ride with the grandkids.
Pro Tip: Check out their promotions to enjoy cost savings, and don’t forget to visit the Prize Shop to trade in your winning game tickets for attractive rewards.
Address: Timezone Arcade Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Road, #03-27, Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
Operating hours: Mon to Fri, 11AM to 10PM, Sat-Sun, Public Holidays & School Holidays 10AM to 10PM
Activities Near Siglap MRT Station (TE26)
Visit the KPMG Wellness Garden at East Coast Park
18-minute walk from Siglap MRT Station
Photo credit: National Parks Singapore
Singaporeans love a good coastal walk, and there’s no better place than the KPMG Wellness Garden located at East Coast Park to enjoy the salty ocean breeze.
This multi-generational haven features a therapeutic garden, a pond trail, a nature fitness area, and a play garden designed to appeal to different age groups. Wheelchair-friendly paths ensure that no one gets left out.
Kick back and relax in the soothing atmosphere of the therapeutic garden. Take time to appreciate the smell and textures of the surrounding edible plants and aromatic herbs for maximum sensory enjoyment.
Follow the pond trail to spot eye-catching aquatic plants such as the Indian Shot and Common Cattail. If you’re in the mood for a workout surrounded by nature, head over to the nature fitness area to get fit as a family.
There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained in the play garden as they explore the hide-outs, open sandpit, and tongue drums. Children of all abilities can join in on the fun with inclusive features like the raised sand table, wheelchair-accessible trampoline, and lookout platforms with ramps.
Top off the experience with a short walk to the nearby East Coast Lagoon Food Village, where you can hydrate with fresh coconuts and indulge in a family feast of local delights like mouth-watering satay, charcoal-fried Hokkien Mee, and flavourful BBQ stingray.
Pro Tip: East Coast Park (ECP) is within walking distance of all seven new TEL Stage 4 stations — namely Tanjong Rhu, Katong Park, Tanjong Katong, Marine Parade, Marine Terrace, Siglap, and Bayshore. This means you can explore anywhere along the ECP strip and simply walk to the nearest TEL station to head home. Talk about convenience!
Address: KPMG Wellness Garden at East Coast Park, East Coast Park, Area D (Beside Carpark D5) Singapore 449880
Operating hours: 24 hours
Address: East Coast Lagoon Food Village, 1220 ECP, Singapore 468960
Operating hours: Stall hours vary. Go after 4PM when most stalls are open till 10PM
Easily Reach our AACs with the TEL Line!
Feel like you’re missing a little variety in your days? If you’re looking to shake up your routine and embrace new activities, stop by an NTUC Health Active Ageing Centre near you via the TEL for fresh and exciting programmes tailored for active seniors. Each centre offers different activities, so you can explore a range of options to find what suits you best!
