🏡 Moving to Cloverdale or Clayton in Surrey BC: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering moving to Cloverdale or Clayton, or simply want to learn more about these two vibrant Surrey communities, you’re in the right place.

Both areas offer a mix of small-town charm, modern amenities, and family-friendly living — but they each have their own distinct vibe. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: from real estate and schools to restaurants, parks, breweries, and more.

📍 Location & Community Overview

Cloverdale is located in the easternmost part of Surrey, bordering Langley. With a population of over 65,000, it's often mistaken as its own city. It’s also known as the historic heart of Surrey, home to landmarks like the Surrey Museum and the Cloverdale Rodeo Grounds.

Clayton, on the other hand, is a newer and rapidly developing neighbourhood located just north of Cloverdale proper, across Fraser Highway.

🏘️ What’s It Like Living in Cloverdale?

Cloverdale offers a blend of small-town feel with big-city access.

🏙 Downtown Cloverdale Highlights:

• Local shops, coffee houses, and great restaurants

• Cloverdale Casino & horse track

• Cloverdale Arena & Recreation Centre

• Massive skatepark just outside the rec centre

🏟 Sports & Recreation:

• Cloverdale Athletic Park – Soccer fields, baseball diamonds, ball hockey rink, playground, and tennis courts

• Surrey United Soccer Club – A popular youth program based out of the park

⛳ Golfing in Cloverdale

Golf lovers will be happy to know that Cloverdale is home to some of the best golf courses in the Lower Mainland.

• Northview Golf & Country Club

  • Two full 18-hole courses (Canal & Ridge)

  • Hosted PGA Tour events from 1996–2002

  • Great clubhouse restaurant

• Surrey Golf Club

  • 9-hole executive course + full 18-hole course

  • Budget-friendly and beginner-friendly

• Clayton Public House Par-3

  • 9 fun-sized holes (60–200 yards)

  • Burger + beer + golf = $25 special

  • Great casual spot with a covered patio and fantastic menu

🍺 Breweries & Craft Beer in the Area

🍻 Must-Visit Spots:

• Clayton Public House – Hosts the Langley Loop brewery tour

• Langley Loop includes:

  • Camp Beer Co.

  • Trading Post

  • Five Roads Brewing

  • Farm Country Brewing

• Clover Valley Beer Festival

  • Held in August at the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre

  • 40+ breweries, 80+ beers/ciders, food trucks & live music

🎪 Events & Festivals

Cloverdale knows how to throw a party.

• Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair

  • Held every May long weekend

  • Rodeo events, live music, food trucks, bar barn, and more

• Gone Country Music Festival

  • Held in July

  • Fundraiser for cancer, featuring major country artists

• Cloverdale Sunday Flea Market

  • Weekly event with dozens of vendors

  • Entry fee is just $1.50

🍽️ Top Restaurants in Cloverdale

Whether you're craving sushi, seafood, or burgers — Cloverdale delivers.

Must-Try Spots:

• The Vault – Local favourite, great cocktails, known for seafood

• Hawthorne Beer & Bistro – Delicious food + extensive beer list

• Umami Sushi – Big portions, excellent quality (try the stinky roll!)

• Clayton Public House – Great drinks, large menu, cozy vibe

• Dublin Crossing Pub – Family/bar split layout, awesome Sunday Caesar specials

🌳 What’s It Like Living in Clayton?

Clayton is one of Surrey’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, especially for young families and professionals.

🏘 Housing in Clayton:

• Tons of townhomes and condos

• Detached homes often feature basement suites and carriage houses

• Ongoing new development as SkyTrain is set to expand along Fraser Highway

⚠️ Heads-Up: Parking can be tight in some newer detached home areas due to high density.

🐾 Parks, Trails & Community in Clayton

🌿 Outdoor Highlights:

• Hazelgrove Park & Katzie Park – Family-friendly spaces with trails

• Off-leash Dog Park – A favourite among pet owners

🏢 Community Amenities:

• Brand-new Clayton Community Centre

  • State-of-the-art facility

• Clayton Community Market

  • Every other Sunday, May–Oct at Clayton Heights Secondary

☕ Clayton’s Best Cafes, Breweries & Dining

🔥 Local Favourites:

• Black Tiger Coffee – Perfect for meetings, amazing donuts

• Camp Beer Co. – Cabin-like brewery with outdoor seating

• Haven – Upscale dining, creative cocktails, cozy ambiance

  • Must-snap neon sign at the entrance

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Should Move to Cloverdale or Clayton?

✅ Young Families – Schools, parks, family-friendly vibe
✅ Professionals & Commuters – Access to Fraser Hwy & future SkyTrain
✅ Foodies & Beer Lovers – Fantastic restaurant & brewery scene
✅ Active Lifestyles – Golf, sports parks, events, trails

⚠️ A Few Things to Know

• Ongoing Development – Expect new construction and road work

• Traffic Congestion – Rush hour in/out of Clayton can get busy

• Limited Parking – Especially near high-density homes with suites

✅ Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Cloverdale or Clayton?

If you’re looking for a well-balanced, family-focused, and vibrant community that still has room to grow — Cloverdale and Clayton are excellent options.

From its charming downtown and legendary rodeo to the breweries, restaurants, and new community developments, there’s no shortage of things to love here.

📞 Thinking of making the move?

Click the link below to book a call with me — I’d be happy to chat about your needs and help you decide if Cloverdale or Clayton is right for you.

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