🐎【Sir Cecil’s Ride (金督馳馬徑)】 is a historic trail located in the eastern part of Hong Kong Island. Named after Sir Cecil Clementi, the 17th Governor of Hong Kong, the trail is said to have earned its name as the Governor frequently enjoyed horse riding excursions here during his tenure. This trail links various prominent spots on Hong Kong Island, stretching from Aberdeen Reservoir Road near Wan Chai Gap in the west, to the junction of Nam Fung Road and Deep Water Bay Road in the east, with certain sections overlapping with Section 4 of the Hong Kong Trail. Characterized by its gentle and easy paths, the trail is heavily shaded by lush canopies, making it perfect for beginners and family outings. The full trail is about 4 km long and takes around 2–3 hours to walk, offering hikers panoramic urban views over Victoria Harbour and Causeway Bay along the way. — More than just a leisure trail, this path carries the historic memories of the colonial era. It connects seamlessly to multiple scenic spots such as Red Incense Burner Hill, Braemar Hill, and Wong Nai Chung Reservoir, making it a staple for various popular hiking route combinations. For instance, the short trek starting from Braemar Hill Mansions via Sir Cecil’s Ride up to Red Incense Burner Hill is only about 2.2 km, standing out as one of the best quick routes to catch the Victoria Harbour sunset. On top of that, the surrounding woodlands boast a rich ecosystem teeming with butterflies and birds. Thanks to its convenient transport access from bustling hubs like Causeway Bay or Quarry Bay, it serves as an ideal urban escape for city dwellers looking to beat the hustle and bustle. —
📍 Quick Facts
Item Details 📍 Location Eastern District, Hong Kong Island 📏 Total Distance Around 9 km (some sources indicate up to 13.5 km) ⏱️ Time Required Approximately 3–3.5 hours 🧭 Starting Point Wong Nai Chung Gap 🧭 Ending Point Mount Parker Road or Quarry Bay 🥾 Difficulty Easy to moderate; highly suitable for beginners and family hikes 🛣️ Trail Conditions A mix of dirt paths and concrete roads, mostly shaded; please note some sections lack proper pedestrian pavements —
🧭 Route Breakdown & Sections
- Wong Nai Chung Gap → Sir Cecil’s Garden: The starting point, featuring a map board and stone steps. The initial stretch overlaps with the Wong Nai Chung Gap Trail.
- Sir Cecil’s Garden → Mount Butler Road: Passes through the historic site of the former Governor’s private garden, leading up along the driveway towards the explosives depot.
- Mount Butler Road → Red Incense Burner Hill: Hikers can choose to detour up to the summit for a magnificent, sweeping view of Victoria Harbour.
- Red Incense Burner Hill → Braemar Hill: A flat, easy path equipped with pavilions and viewing platforms.
- Braemar Hill → Mount Parker Road: The final stretch joins the Wilson Trail, leading hikers down to Quarry Bay or Tai Koo MTR Station.
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🏇 History & Naming Origins
- Named after Sir Cecil Clementi, the 17th Governor of Hong Kong, who frequently enjoyed horse riding excursions here during his term (1925–1930).
- He and his wife, Marie Penelope Rose Eyres, were avid equestrians who loved exploring the area on horseback, which led to the naming of “Sir Cecil’s Ride.”
- Aside from this trail, Lady Clementi’s Ride—named after his wife—is located at Wan Chai Gap. These are the only two trails in Hong Kong named after a Governor and his spouse.
- During the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941, Japanese forces used this trail to advance towards Wong Nai Chung Gap, making it a critical military passageway during the wartime defense.
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🌄 Scenic Highlights
- Sir Cecil’s Ride Viewing Point: Offers stunning vistas overlooking the entire Victoria Harbour, with a dramatic coastline stretching from Tsim Sha Tsui all the way to Lei Yue Mun.
- Sunset at Red Incense Burner Hill: A wildly popular Instagram spot that becomes absolutely mesmerizing during sunset hours.
- Braemar Hill Reservoir: Visited along the way, offering a serene and peaceful setting.
- Sir Cecil’s Garden: The site of the former Governor’s private garden, where remnants of decorative bridges and flowerbeds can still be spotted today.
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🚍 Transport Info
Getting to the Starting Point (Wong Nai Chung Gap / Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park Stop)
- Citybus Routes: 6, 41A, 76, 63, 66
- Green Minibus: Route 5 (sets off from Causeway Bay)
Leaving from the Ending Point (Mount Parker Road / Quarry Bay)
- MTR: Quarry Bay Station or Tai Koo Station
- Franchised Buses: Routes 25, 49M, 85, 108, etc.
- Green Minibus: Route 24M (accessible via Mount Butler Road)
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⚠️ Reminders & Safety Tips
- Limited Signage: Keep a close eye on the map display boards along the way to avoid wandering down the wrong side paths.
- No Pavement on Mount Butler Road: Walk with extra care and watch out for passing vehicles on this section.
- No Supply Points Along the Way: Make sure to pack enough water and energy snacks before setting off.
- Numerous Intersecting Paths: It is highly recommended to use GPS or a reliable hiking map app for navigation.
Multiple Exit Points Available: If you need to cut your hike short, you can easily exit mid-way via Siu Ma Hang or Braemar Hill Road. —
🧡 Hiking Experience & Cultural Value
Sir Cecil’s Ride is not just a popular hiking route on Hong Kong Island; it is a captivating crossroads where history and nature meet. Walking under the shady canopies, hikers can easily picture the old days when the Governor rode on horseback through these very hillsides.
In 2022, snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan went for a morning jog along this exact trail and praised the incredible beauty of Hong Kong’s countryside, giving the route an extra boost of international fame.
Blending raw nature, deep history, and iconic cityscapes, this classic route remains an absolute must-visit for local and visiting hikers alike.
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🏞️ Extended Routes
- Lady Clementi’s Ride: Connects directly with Sir Cecil’s Ride and carries its own unique historical charm.
- Wilson Trail: Hikers can easily link up here to explore other major hiking routes across Hong Kong Island.
- Tai Tam Reservoir Road: Located nearby, offering multiple countryside trails to extend your day out.
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