Introduction
The Oaklands neighbourhood of Victoria is bound by North Dairy, Shelbourne, Haultain and Cook Streets. According to the Heritage Foundation of Victoria, it was mostly farmland and swampland prior to WWI and WWII. This is a residential area with two distinct commercial pockets. Large trees line many of the streets and give the feeling of being under a canopy.
Lifestyle
Some residents work from home and others commute downtown. There are plenty of green spaces and parks, dog walkers and families enjoying the outdoors. Cyclists and tennis players abound. All amenities and necessities are within walking distance. It’s a good life with a laid-back west coast pace, typical of most areas in Victoria.
Dollars & Sense
Retail and fast food chains are in evidence, especially near the mall. The restaurant market is clearly competitive. Hillside Centre is extensive and has typical pricing for Victoria. There are some independent businesses that make efforts to support and offer local fare. Housing prices are generally slightly below average for Victoria.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The advantage of this area is that everything is close by. There is no real need to go downtown except for major cultural or sporting events. The abundant green spaces, schools and amenities allow for a very local experience. The commercial aspects of the area are clearly distinct from the residential ones. This allows for tranquility and peace near home.
2.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Located northeast of downtown, the main streets lead in and out of the city. It’s 10-15 minutes to ferries and the bus station. Parking is at a premium with many areas designated residential parking only. Plenty of residents choose to walk or cycle around. Several buses run on the main streets. The airport is thirty minutes away.
In the Area
There’s an elementary school, community centre, non-profit Christian family services centre, and places of worship. The Royal Jubilee hospital is on the border of this area. Medical offices and clinics abound. A Camosun College campus is less than 1km away, as is another elementary school. Driving school, first aid training and other private specialist schools are located here. There are well-equipped parks and sports fields.
Meet the Neighbours
There’s a range of ages from newborns to seniors with all types of families here. Many are from other parts of Canada. Many people are physically active and focused on health. The local community centre offers programs for all levels of fitness. Neighbours are friendly. A farmer’s market at the elementary school in summer is very popular.
The Vibe
In the residential parts sedate Victoria life is being lived, quietly and peacefully. The two commercial areas have a notably bustling mood. One is the 1960s built and recently renovated Hillside Mall with surrounding medical businesses and restaurants. Located at the junction of two major city corridors and close to Camosun College campus, this area sees plenty of traffic. The other is Haultain Corners which has an old-time village feeling.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Cridge Centre for the Family
This multi-service complex is a non-profit Christian operation. Programs for all ages and stages of life. Support for brain injuries, transition housing, childcare and much more. Senior residents like living here.
more infoHillside Coffee and Tea
This licensed establishment hosts comedy on Monday nights, poetry and live music. They feature organic and fair trade drinks, gluten free items , homemade soups and they even offer catering.
more infoThe Local Grocery Store
You can find everything you need here, and more that you didn’t even know you needed. Sustainable Sporks? Fresh panini? Horseradish? Organic capris from Peru? Milk, eggs and local produce? Gifts? You bet.
more infoOaklands Park
Popular, clean and well tended, this park features playgrounds for both younger and older children. It also backs onto sports fields for those who need space to run around. It's across from Oaklands Elementary School.
more infoBolen Books
A community bookstore for over 40 years, this landmark is well loved by Victorians. Hosts author events and is a major supporter of local and independent authors. Extensive children’s section.
more info