Surrey

Surrey is a large, fast-growing city that is part of the Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD). Located south of Coquitlam and Pitt Meadows separated by Fraser River, west of Langley, and east of Delta.

It is one of the most culturally rich cities with a population of 588,490 as of 2021, making it British Columbia’s second-largest next to Vancouver in terms of population.

History

The first recorded people inhabiting the area are the Semiahmoo and Kwantlen First Nations. Their shelters and seasonal encampments were along the Campbell River and Fraser River.

The community revolved around the coastal resources of shellfish as well as other fishes found in the river. The forest animals such as deer, elk, and bears, also provided for the first nation’s food and shelter and the coastal lakes and rivers provided links between the First Nations and the rest of the region.

In the latter half of the nineteenth century, Surrey began to see an influx of immigrants from all over the world. The early settlers needed to clear the area, which caused much distress among the locals. For centuries, its forest remained untouched. But the settlers kept coming, and Surrey started to take shape over time.

Surrey was founded in 1879 when H.J. Brewer, an Englishman coming from New Westminster but born and raised in Surrey of England, saw the land resembling his native County – the town is then named Surrey.

Downtown Area

Cloverdale, Fleetwood, Guildford, Newton, South Surrey, and Whalley, are all part of Surrey’s town centers, each with their own distinct identity and many neighbourhood parks are all within a short distance of the City Center.

Cloverdale is home to the Museum of Surrey, several sports facilities and is known as the historic centre of Surrey. The Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair are held each year in the town and it is also the site of the largest Canada Day celebration in Western Canada.

Fleetwood is Surrey’s newest town center located in the heart of the county. There are a lot of shops, restaurants, and parks in this mainly residential neighbourhood. In addition to the Fleetwood Community Centre and Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, the town of Fleetwood also has several other facilities. The famous Fleetwood Park is just one of its 25 beautiful parks.

Guildford is a booming residential district east of the city center. Restaurants and eateries are plentiful in the area. It is home to Guildford Recreation Centre and Guildford Town Centre which is the second-largest in the province. Nature trails, athletic parks and gardens are all part of its charm.

Newton is Surrey’s most densely populated town and home to a wide range of people from all over the world. The Newton Cultural Center, Bell Performing Arts Center, a large open playground, and ocean views are all part of Newton’s appeal. Hundreds of thousands of people travel to Newton each year to see one of the largest Indian events, the Vaisakhi parades.

South Surrey has the beauty of nature. The scenic views of the ocean and mountains, towering trees and the Crescent Beach. The South Surrey Athletic Park is frequented by watersports enthusiasts and athletes. It has many historical landmarks, such as Historic Stewart Farm.

Whalley is one of the oldest among Surrey’s neighbourhoods. It is located just north of Surrey City Centre. An ideal location with commercial and residential skyscrapers springing up all over Whalley. These include a busy transportation hub, shopping malls, and numerous sports facilities.

Parks and Trails

The City of Surrey keeps the effort of maintaining the attractions and recreation areas for everyone. The nature and recreational areas foster an engaged community – adventure, family outings, and outdoor activities are all available in the city. 

Parks