Introduction
Many people think of shopping when they think of Guildford as it is home to one of the region’s largest malls, but it is also a diverse, multicultural residential enclave in east Surrey. The northern boundary of Guildford runs along the Fraser River from about Surrey Road to its border with Langley at 196th Street. The southern boundary of Guildford runs a jagged line.
Lifestyle
Guildford, like much Surrey, is a family-friendly neighbourhood, attracting new residents because of its many recreational and cultural facilities and its relatively affordable home prices. The area is undergoing a revitalization and there are new townhomes and condos under construction, many situated close to shops and other amenities in the area.
The Vibe
Sports fields, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, pools, parks and trails – Guildford offers so much for families, seniors and singles to keep busy and active. Guildford is the quintessential suburban neighbourhood, but the City of Surrey has invested in a plethora of recreational facilities to keep attracting new residents to the area.
Meet the Neighbours
Surrey is home to one of the largest Indo-Canadian populations in the Lower Mainland with more than 20 per cent speaking Punjabi as their first language. The largest Vaisakhi parade and celebration takes place in April in Surrey. Average incomes in North Surrey, including Guildford, reflect average incomes across the province; according to Statistics Canada, the average income in North Surrey was about $51,000 in 2010.
In the Area
Guildford is one of those areas in the Lower Mainland where families and older couples looking to downsize to townhomes and condos can still find relatively affordable housing. To serve these residents, there are many schools, parks and shopping, with Guildford Town Centre at the heart of the community close by.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Like many Surrey neighbourhoods, cars dominate the roads, but the city has been working on a plan to bring light rail to Guildford and other communities. For those dependent on the automobile, the new South Perimeter Road, which skirts along the north side of Guildford, provides easy access from the Golden Ears Bridge in east Surrey to Highways 1, 91, 99 and the Tsawwassen ferry terminal.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Guildford still has a lot of older rental housing stock, and some areas are rundown and in need of some TLC and graffiti removal. But this large neighbourhood with extensive residential areas is home to many families, singles and seniors looking for affordable housing with a good mix of shopping and amenities as well as parks and public spaces.
Dollars & Sense
Guildford Town Centre is a destination shopping mall in Surrey, and its 250 stores and restaurants cater to shoppers from the low end to the high end. Anchored by such giants as Wal-Mart, Sears and SportChek, the mall has expanded to several city blocks. But popping up in the neighbourhood and more unique businesses, like craft breweries.
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Neighbourhood Hotspots
Green Timbers Urban Forest
Thanks to Surrey residents, a forest in the centre of the city, just on the southern edge of Guildford, was saved from development. Green Timbers Urban Forest is the first replanted forest in B.C.
more infoHawthorne Park and Gardens
Located on the western side of Guildford, Hawthorne Park has picnic spaces and a spray park to cool off at on a hot summer’s day. Inside the park is Hawthorne Gardens, which features small forests.
more infoGuildford Town Centre
One of the largest malls in B.C., Guildford Town Centre is a destination shopping mall with 250 stores. Anchored by several large stores like the Hudson’s Bay and Wal-Mart, the mall offers a wide variety.
more infoSurrey Nature Centre
Located in the Green Timbers Urban Forest, the Surrey Nature Centre offers programs about nature preservation. A museum is located beside the nature centre and gives a history of this urban enclave.
more infoTynehead Hatchery
The volunteer-run Tynehead Hatchery has as its mandate to protect and replenish local rivers with endangered salmon species. Visitors are welcome to tour the hatchery to learn more about their programs and endangered fish.
more infoGuildford Recreation Centre
With an Olympic-sized pool with eight lanes, a fitness centre, weight room, three gymnasiums, programs and space for preschoolers to seniors, Guildford Recreation Centre keeps its residents active and connected.
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