Goodwood Park Hotel
New hotels in Singapore seem to be opening every few months, but there’s still something charming about checking into a place with real history behind it. Goodwood Park Hotel, the only heritage hotel in the Orchard Road area, is one of those spots.
If you’ve ever walked past its distinctive tower and wondered about the story behind this grand building that has seemingly stood its ground while the rest of Orchard transformed around it, you’re not alone. Here’s a quick look at the hotel’s long-standing history and why it’s still such an icon today.
First built in 1900 as a social club for German expats in Singapore
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
Its story first began in 1900 – a whopping 126 years ago – as the Teutonia Club, an enclave for Singapore’s expatriate German community. Back then, Orchard Road wasn’t the shopping haven we know today, and entertainment options were few and far between.
To recreate a sense of familiarity while living overseas, 7 German expats came together to found the club as a space to socialise and build community.
Its architecture reflected those European roots too. Inspired by the grand castles along the Rhine, the building features regal details, with the iconic tower block, which still stands today, becoming its most recognisable feature.
Transformed into a hotel by 1929
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
The building entered a new chapter in 1918, when it was acquired by 3 Jewish brothers from the Manasseh family, who renamed it Goodwood Hall after England’s famed Goodwood Racecourse. It even saw some star power in its heyday – legendary Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova performed there in 1922.
By 1929, it was transformed into the Goodwood Park Hotel, catering largely to businessmen from Malaya. Over the years, it also welcomed a fair share of notable guests, including the Duke of Windsor, who visited when he was the Prince of Wales of England.
1st hotel in Singapore to feature a swimming pool
Main Pool.
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
After World War II ended, the building briefly served as a British War Crimes Court before eventually being returned in 1947 to Mr Vivian Bath, a descendant of the Manasseh family.
It was during this post-war revival that the hotel made local history once again, becoming the 1st hotel in Singapore to feature a swimming pool within its grounds!
The hotel changed hands & went under new management
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
In 1963, Goodwood Park Hotel was acquired by the Malayan Banking Group. Just a few years later, in 1968, it changed hands again and came under the ownership of the late Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat, a former Managing Director of the bank.
The legacy continues under his daughter, Mrs Mavis Oei, the hotel’s current Chairman, who has overseen massive upgrades while preserving its historic charm.
Fun fact: If you head to the entrance of the Tower Block, you’ll spot a bronze bust of Khoo Teck Puat himself.
Gazetted as a national monument in 1989
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel via Facebook
Fast forward to March 1989, and Goodwood Park Hotel’s iconic tower was officially gazetted as a national monument, cementing its place in Singapore’s architectural and cultural heritage.
As you walk around the hotel, keep an eye out for the details that hint at its century-long history.
Newly refurbished Mayfair Wing rooms
Deluxe Poolside Room.
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
Naturally, with a hotel that’s been around for over a century, the interiors need a refresh every now and then. The latest update comes in the form of the newly refurbished Mayfair Wing rooms, which now feature a more modern aesthetic.
There are 2 room types under the Mayfair Wing to choose from: the Deluxe Mayfair Room and the Deluxe Poolside Room.
We had the opportunity to stay in the latter, which is located on the ground floor and comes with direct access to the Mayfair Pool – perfect for couples who enjoy a quick dip.
The Deluxe Mayfair Room, on the other hand, features a private balcony overlooking either the garden or pool. It can also accommodate an extra bed, making it a more family-friendly option if you’re planning a stay with the kids in tow.
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
We noticed the earthy tones the moment we stepped into the room, paired with wood finishes and vinyl flooring that made the space feel warm and homely instead of overly hotel-like. But the hotel hasn’t completely ditched its old-school charm. Framed black-and-white photographs line the walls, featuring local scenes by French artist Gilles Massot. It’s a subtle touch, but one that adds character to the otherwise modernised space.
You’ll also be happy to know that each room comes with a bathtub – great for soaking away any knots after a long day out.
Just take note that the TV doesn’t come equipped with Netflix, but there’s still a decent selection of international channels. If you’re planning a cosy night in with your shows, it’s probably worth bringing along your laptop or tablet.
Mayfair Pool.
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
But our favourite part of the stay had to be the direct access to the Balinese-inspired Mayfair Pool. It almost felt like we’d been whisked away to a resort in Bali, except this time, the pool was just steps away.
A heritage hotel in the heart of Orchard Road
To celebrate the revamp of the Mayfair Wing rooms, the hotel has also rolled out curated stay packages.
There’s the A Timeless Retreat at Goodwood package, where you’ll get to stay in a Deluxe Premier Room. There’ll be additional perks too, like complimentary English Afternoon Tea and breakfast, late check-out until 3pm, and spa privileges. The package is valid for stays from now till 30th November 2026, with rates starting from $348/night.
Image credit: Goodwood Park Hotel
And with the June holidays just around the corner, it’s also an excuse to start planning a family staycation with the Little Explorer Getaway package. You’ll stay in a Poolside Suite, complete with an in-room teepee set-up that the little ones will love, and complimentary perks to keep the whole family entertained. The package can be booked from now till 10th August 2026, and rates start from $568/night.
At a time when staycations often mean chasing the newest opening in town, Goodwood Park Hotel is a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable stays come with a bit of history behind them.
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Cover image adapted from: Goodwood Park Hotel, Goodwood Park Hotel via Facebook