If there’s one thing that’s sure to get someone to smile, its beautiful flowers. Surrey has a plethora of gardens for making that special someone in your life overjoyed from views of countless, riotous blossoms. Now, we can’t guarantee instant gratitude and happiness, but we can be sure that anywhere you visit from this list will give someone a smile. We’ll leave the rest up to you.
Darts Hill Garden (16th Avenue and 170th Street) is the result of over 70 years of work and dedication guided by the clear vision of Francisca Darts. Francisca became involved with local gardening clubs, and gradually transformed the land she owned into a collection garden. She and her husband donated the park to the city in 1994, and it continues to be a gorgeous spot for photos and a peaceful getaway for everyone to enjoy. The park spans 7.5 acres of orchard trees, magnolias and rhododendrons. Private tours as well as guided tours are available to learn about the wide variety of rare and unusual plants.
Over 15 acres of cultivated and developed land makes up The Glades Garden (561 172 Street). Currently, there are over 1,600 mature rhododendrons, azaleas and companion plants. Lydia and Murray Stephen transformed the 5 original acres The Glades sits on, that was once blackberry shrubs and stumps. Murray wished to recreate the rhododendron gardens from his home in Scotland, so his wife and himself created the beautiful garden oasis. In 1970 when Murray passed away, the garden fell into decline. Jim and Elfriede DeWolf purchased the garden and began its restoration. They now work with the city to continue Murray’s work and wish for a breathtaking garden accessible to the public.
This place has everything- no really! Art Knapp (4391 King George Boulevard) is a garden centre, marketplace and more. They sport the hot sauce “Wall of Flame”, and the Olde Candy Shoppe for those with a sweet tooth. They’ve got aisles of themed home décor, an entire wall full of crocs, a perfect pairing for their endless expanse of foliage and plants for sale. Walking inside, you feel transported to another world, with the plants, retail, and treats stocked on every surface. Loads of activities are available for the kids as well! Make sure to try out their train-rides or mini-golf. You’ll be hard-pressed to visit and not walk away with an armload of goodies.