The Grand Old Lady
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Grand Old Lady Miri Well No. 1

4.3
·1k reviews·Miri, Malaysia

Malaysia's first oil well, the 'Grand Old Lady' on Canada Hill, offers historical insights and panoramic city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late morning

Good light for photos

CrowdMedium
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The Grand Old Lady

Grand Old Lady Miri Well No. 1

Best Time

Late morning

Good light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Malaysia's first oil well, the 'Grand Old Lady' on Canada Hill, offers historical insights and panoramic city views.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A place with panoramic view of Miri with the big 'MIRI' for the typical touristy photoshoot and also filled with history."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 OOTD Spot

Perfect for touristy photos with the 'MIRI' sign and historic derrick.

🏛️ Museum Hours

Check museum opening times; they may not be open on Sundays.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Old Lady Derrick

The Grand Old Lady Derrick

Canada Hill

Malaysia's first oil well, a towering monument to the nation's petroleum discovery.

Instagram
Petroleum Museum

Petroleum Museum

Adjacent to the derrick

Immerse yourself in the history of Miri's oil industry with engaging exhibits.

Reddit
Panoramic Miri View

Panoramic Miri View

Canada Hill summit

Enjoy sweeping vistas of Miri city and its surroundings from this elevated viewpoint.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the History

The Grand Old Lady marks the spot of Malaysia's first oil well, drilled in 1910. Explore the adjacent Petroleum Museum to dive deep into Sarawak's oil and gas heritage. Instagram

Best Photo Ops & Views

This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of Miri city. Capture classic tourist shots with the 'MIRI' sign and the historic derrick. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late morning
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Museum often open
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Miri Oil Well No.1 The Grand Old Lady
nurashimahishak_
15 likes • 181 views

📸 OOTD Spot

Perfect for touristy photos with the 'MIRI' sign and historic derrick. InstagramReddit

🏛️ Museum Hours

Check museum opening times; they may not be open on Sundays. Reddit

Miri Oil Well No.1 (The Grand Old Lady) Miri, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia 🇲🇾 Miri Oil Well No.1 was the first drilled oil well in Malaysia and is one of the important and historical monuments in Miri. Located on Canada Hill, this famous landmark has a height of 30 meters. The original was burned down by wildfire and rebuilt later. Sarawak Shell BHD used this cable tool excavator to produce petroleu...
satoshi_traveller
5 likes • 67 views
reddit.com

I have 4 days in Miri, what's not to miss while I'm there?

🚗 Narrow Access Road

The road leading up can be narrow, drive with care. Reddit

💡 History Buffs Rejoice

The Petroleum Museum offers deep dives into oil history. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 OOTD Spot

Perfect for touristy photos with the 'MIRI' sign and historic derrick. InstagramReddit

🏛️ Museum Hours

Check museum opening times; they may not be open on Sundays. Reddit

🚗 Narrow Access Road

The road leading up can be narrow, drive with care. Reddit

💡 History Buffs Rejoice

The Petroleum Museum offers deep dives into oil history. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the Grand Old Lady for its historical significance as Malaysia's first oil well and the panoramic views of Miri it offers. The adjacent Petroleum Museum is a key attraction for those interested in the oil industry's history. Some find the site a bit limited in activities beyond the monument and museum.

"A place with panoramic view of Miri with the big 'MIRI' for the typical touristy photoshoot and also filled with history about the oil history. There is also a petroleum museum (with air conditioning) for you to immerse into the history of oil industry. The opening hours as attached."

chewjiajia

"Historic tower with some statues of oil miners working. The real interesting stuff is in the Petro-museum next to it."

Vincent Oliver

"The "Grand Old Lady", also known as Oil Well No.1, is a fascinating historical monument located on Canada Hill in Miri. The place offers a breathtaking view of the city of Miri and its surroundings.

Additionally, you can enjoy information about the history of oil in Sarawak at the Petroleum Science Museum located next door."

Hareez Haiqal

What People Like

Historical significance
Panoramic city views
Petroleum Museum exhibits

What People Dislike

Limited activities
Inconsistent museum hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Grand Old Lady is located on Canada Hill in Miri. You can reach it by car or taxi. The road leading up is narrow, so drive cautiously. Reddit

Limited parking is usually available near the derrick and the Petroleum Museum. Reddit

While possible, it's a steep uphill walk from the city center. Driving or taking a taxi is more convenient. Reddit

Combine a visit to the Grand Old Lady with the Petroleum Museum for a comprehensive historical experience. Reddit

While the immediate area might have limited options, Miri city center offers many halal food choices. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Grand Old Lady monument itself is typically free. However, there might be an admission fee for the Petroleum Museum. Reddit

The monument is generally accessible during daylight hours. The adjacent Petroleum Museum has specific operating hours, which can vary. Reddit

Reviews suggest the museum's opening hours can be inconsistent, with some visitors finding it closed on Sundays. It's best to check locally or confirm beforehand. Reddit

It's advisable to check the operating hours for the Petroleum Museum on public holidays, as they may differ. The monument itself should remain accessible. Reddit

Information on discounts for the Petroleum Museum is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly if you are eligible for any concessions. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the historic oil derrick, take photos with the 'MIRI' sign, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Petroleum Museum offers historical insights. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a popular spot for touristy photos and offers great cityscapes. The derrick itself is an iconic subject. InstagramReddit

The museum details the history of oil discovery and the oil and gas industry in Miri and Sarawak, featuring exhibits on its development. Reddit

Children might find the derrick interesting, and the museum can be educational. However, there isn't much in terms of dedicated play areas. Reddit

Allow 1-2 hours to explore the derrick, take photos, and visit the Petroleum Museum. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the derrick against the sky, pose with the 'MIRI' sign, and frame the city views from the hilltop. InstagramReddit

Late morning offers good natural light for clear shots of the derrick and the city. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be beautiful. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the museum administration before flying a drone in this area. Reddit

Yes, there are statues depicting oil miners, adding a historical element to your photographs. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the derrick and the panoramic views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Grand Old Lady and its adjacent Petroleum Museum offer an educational outing for families. Kids can marvel at the towering derrick and learn about the origins of oil in Malaysia. The museum provides interactive elements that can engage younger minds, making history come alive. Reddit

Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities might be limited. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the monument and on the hill. The 'MIRI' sign is a fun photo opportunity for the whole family. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by industrial history, the Grand Old Lady is a pilgrimage site. It represents a pivotal moment in Malaysia's economic development. The Petroleum Museum is your deep dive, offering detailed accounts of the oil and gas industry's evolution in Sarawak. Reddit

Don't miss: The statues depicting oil miners, which add a human element to the historical narrative. Consider researching the history of Shell in Miri beforehand to enhance your understanding. Reddit

📸 Photographers & OOTD Enthusiasts

The Grand Old Lady is an iconic landmark perfect for striking photographs. The derrick itself, set against the sky, makes for dramatic shots. The prominent 'MIRI' sign is a must-have for typical touristy photos. InstagramReddit

Best shots: Capture the derrick from various angles, utilize the panoramic city views for landscape photography, and don't forget to get creative with the 'MIRI' sign. Late morning light is ideal for clear, well-lit images. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Grand Old Lady

The Grand Old Lady, officially known as Miri Well No. 1, stands as a monumental testament to the dawn of Malaysia's oil industry. Drilled on August 10, 1910, by the Anglo-Saxon Petroleum Company (a precursor to Shell), this derrick marked the discovery of oil in Sarawak and the entire nation. Its presence on Canada Hill signifies a pivotal moment in Miri's history, transforming it from a small settlement into a bustling oil town. The original structure faced destruction by wildfire but was faithfully rebuilt, preserving its historical significance. Instagram

Today, the derrick is more than just a relic; it's a symbol of Miri's heritage and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can learn about the challenging conditions faced by early oil prospectors and the impact of this discovery on the region's economy and development. The site serves as a constant reminder of the industry that shaped Miri into the city it is today. Reddit

Adjacent to the Grand Old Lady is the Petroleum Museum, which further elaborates on this rich history. This museum is crucial for understanding the broader context of oil exploration in Sarawak, offering insights into the technology, challenges, and evolution of the industry. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in industrial history or the economic backbone of Miri. Reddit

Experiencing Canada Hill

Canada Hill offers more than just the Grand Old Lady; it provides a unique vantage point over Miri. The panoramic views from the summit are a significant draw, allowing visitors to survey the city, the coastline, and the surrounding landscape. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and to appreciate the urban sprawl that has grown from the seeds of the oil industry. Reddit

For those interested in a more immersive historical experience, the Petroleum Museum is an essential stop. It houses exhibits that detail the journey of oil discovery, from the initial drilling efforts to modern-day operations. The museum's air-conditioned interiors offer a comfortable respite, especially during warmer days, and provide a wealth of information for history enthusiasts. Reddit

While the site is rich in history and offers great views, some visitors note that there isn't a vast amount of other activities beyond the derrick and museum. It's primarily a destination for appreciating history and enjoying the scenery. The 'MIRI' sign is a popular spot for typical tourist photos, adding a fun, lighthearted element to the visit. Reddit