Willoughby – Willowbrook: An emerging neighbourhood

By Michelle Hopkins
June 24, 2026

Willoughby is nestled in the north of Langley Township and south of the Trans-Canada Highway. Once a sleepy farming community, it’s an emerging neighbourhood that is one of the fastest growing municipalities in the province.

Lifestyle

Willoughby has a real small-town feel, a community where neighbours greet each other with a smile. Whether it’s walking or hiking at Gabriola or Yorkson parks or catching a game at the Langley Events Centre, residents enjoy plenty of leisure opportunities.

In the area

Many young families have been drawn to this neighbourhood because of its affordability. Already, there are two new elementary and middle schools, and a new high school that opened in 2019.

Dollars and sense

Aside from costing roughly half the price of a home in the Lower Mainland, many residents say it offers a better quality of life. Willoughby celebrates its rural roots while embracing its growing urban ones.

Planes, trains and automobiles

It’s easy to get in and out of the city, since Willoughby is right off the freeway and most of Langley is within a few minutes of it. Commuting to Vancouver is less than an hour on most days.

Real estate

There is a healthy mix of housing available, with an even split between single-family and multi-family homes (townhouses to condos and apartments) from which to choose. Willoughby Town Centre is a master-planned neighbourhood by Qualico, and a place that respects the past, values community, and celebrates the fact that Langley is a great place to live. With its quality homes and retail spaces, including Ban Chan Korean Bistro, Dairy Queen, and a grocery store, pedestrian plazas and pleasant walkways, it has something for everyone.

Langley-Events-Centre

Hot spots

Streats Willoughby Kitchen

Streats Willoughby Kitchen

Tacos, burritos, fish and chips and poutine ... does it get any better than that? Fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainability caught seafood packed into mouth- watering eats.

Mattu’s Coffee & Tea

Mattu’s coffee & tea

With two locations in Langley, this popular java spot serves organic gourmet coffees and teas from around the globe. While you are at it, grab one of its fresh-baked goods.

The Mad Italian Pizza Company

The mad Italian pizza company

Pizza is one of Italy’s national treasures – and at Mad Italian Pizza Co. too, where they lovingly craft the humble pie.

About Author

Michelle Hopkins

Michelle Hopkins is a freelance journalist and corporate writer with extensive experience in development projects, home and business writing.

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