Rich in history with a small-town feel, the streets of Cloverdale are lined with boutique shops and beautifully manicured hanging flower baskets. Cloverdale is Surrey’s quaintest and most charming neighbourhood, and (fun fact) was actually Surrey’s birthplace. Named after fields in the area that were abundant in green clovers, Cloverdale is now home to a mix of shopping, agriculture, and heritage. So what exactly is there to do and see in Cloverdale? Here’s what we’re crazy about in Cloverdale.
A Love of Learning
If you love to learn and discover new facts and anecdotes, Cloverdale is the place to be. The Honeybee Centre is not only a working honeybee farm, but they also have a wonderful “all things bees and honey” shop, honey tasting (when health restrictions permit), and even an observation hive to hunt for the elusive queen bee. And “bee” sure to check their events schedule for workshops and family programming. Cloverdale is home to the Surrey Museum: a portal into Surrey’s history, and hosts exhibits that change over the course of the year. The permanent exhibit “Surrey Stories” is a fascinating look at both historic and contemporary Surrey. Another fun way to really experience Surrey’s heritage is to ride the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway! Dating all the way back to 1910, a section of the old BC Electric Railway has been resurrected. Due to Covid-19, the railway is operating on a restricted schedule and capacity, and tickets must be purchased in advance.
Good Grub
Cloverdale is packed with independently-owned, speciality restaurants, bakeries, and shops perfect for foodies in search of a great meal. Sushi lovers will love Masquesolo Sushi, with their huge menu and more speciality sushi rolls than we’ve ever seen, you’re bound to find your new favourite roll. Coffee cravings can be cured at many of Cloverdale’s coffee shops, but the atmosphere at Sip n Snack is a true oasis: like, an actual oasis, it’s located in Thrive Greenery & Gifts, a gorgeous plant and gift shop. And what goes best with coffee? Doughnuts … and they’ve got some epic ones! A hearty upscale pub meal can be found at Hawthorne Beer Market. With a long list of craft beers and a food menu filled with pizzas, variations of poutine, burgers, and more, you won’t leave hungry (or thirsty). And for a fun and unique dining experience, look no further than The Vault. The restaurant was an old bank in a former life, but still uses the original vault as a private dining room! They’re loved locally for their quirky decor, mouthwatering steaks and peanut butter pie. Looking to treat your tastebuds to a Spice Trail adventure? The fresh pakoras, creamy curries, and rich chai at Chatora – Indian Cuisine hold a magic that is entirely their own. And be sure to save room dessert! Just Cakes Bakeshop has taken everything you love about cake, and pie, and put it in a jar. And it’s amazing! Choose from daily flavours like Cardamom Dream, Oreo Birthday, Caramel Apple Crisp and Lemon Raspberry Mousse.
Retail Therapy
Cloverdale’s downtown core is abundant in small, independently owned shops and businesses. From vintage treasure hunting at Retro Mod Consignment to unique home decor finds at La Belle Vie, stylish clothing at The Heart, and even fun kid-friendly activities at Create-It Emporium, you can bounce from shop to shop all day long and find something completely new every time.
ENTER TO WIN – All summer we’ll be giving away gift cards to some of our favourite Surrey businesses, and all you need to do to enter is upload a photo of Surrey using the form below and share your #DiscoverSurreyBC moments!