SINGAPORE: The news of Hotel Miramar's imminent closure has reignited a flood of fond memories from guests, staff, and celebrants alike. As this cherished establishment prepares to say farewell, let's embark on a nostalgia trip through Singapore's past and revisit seven famous hotels that have since faded into oblivion.

Sloane Court Hotel: A Slice of English Charm

Tucked away on Balmoral Road, the Sloane Court Hotel embodied a quaint English countryside vibe just minutes from Orchard Road. Founded by Hainanese entrepreneur Chiam Heng Luan in the early 1960s, this charming Tudor-style establishment transitioned from a modest apartment complex to a beloved 32-room hotel.

Notable for its iconic Berkeley Restaurant, guests savored Western and Hainanese specialties like oxtail stew and fried bee hoon. Sadly, after serving the community for over 50 years, Sloane Court closed in November 2017, making way for the luxurious Sloane Residences.

Copthorne Orchid Hotel: A Culinary Haven

Opening its doors in 1970 as the Orchid Inn, Copthorne Orchid Hotel catered primarily to expatriates rather than tourists, marking it as a unique gem on Dunearn Road. Renamed Novotel Orchid Inn in 1982 and finally adopting its iconic title in 1998, this sprawling hotel featured 440 rooms and various restaurants, from Peranakan delights to Japanese fare.

It welcomed its last guests in March 2011, before being transformed into the elegant Glyndebourne condominium.

Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay: A Riverside Icon

Originally launched as Hotel New Otani in 1984, the Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay offered a taste of Japanese flair within the bustling Liang Court complex. It thrived until 2020, when the iconic riverside hotel was vacated and subsequently demolished in 2021, paving the way for a new mixed-use marvel named Canninghill Piers.

Lion City Hotel: Heart of the Community

Launched in 1968 at the busy junction of Geylang Road and Tanjong Katong Road, Lion City Hotel was the brainchild of tycoon Wee Thiam Siew. With 168 rooms and a popular buffet restaurant, the hotel was not only a haven for travelers but a social hub, featuring a shopping arcade and neighboring attractions like the Hollywood Theatre.

In 2011, it was acquired by UOL and replaced with the vibrant mixed-use development, Kinex.

New 7th Storey Hotel: A Blast from the Past

Designed by the same visionary behind Lion City, the New 7th Storey Hotel opened its doors in 1953. Initially luxurious, it soon transitioned into a budget-friendly stay with quirky features that included a manually operated cage lift.

Unfortunately, it was demolished in 2009 to make way for the expansion of Bugis MRT station, marking the end of a significant era.

Sea View Hotel: A Coastal Retreat

Established in 1906, the original Sea View Hotel, located in Tanjong Katong, offered a luxurious seaside escape. Reopening in 1969 at a new address, the revamped hotel became well-known for its delightful buffets.

However, after operating until late 2003, it was acquired and transformed into the Seaview condominium, officially closing a charming chapter in Singapore's hospitality history.

Cockpit Hotel: A Haven for Airline Crew

Built on the historical site of Hotel de L'Europe, Cockpit Hotel embraced a legacy of serving airline crew and passengers from Dutch Airlines. Opened in 1972, this 13-storey hotel was fondly remembered for its Indonesian rijsttafel meals.

It closed its doors in March 1997, and today, its site is home to the stylish Visioncrest Residence.

As we bid farewell to these storied hotels, we celebrate not just their legacy but the memories that continue to live on in the hearts of those who experienced their unique hospitality.