FAIRFIELD

Wildflowers blooming in Beacon Hill Park

Bordered by the downtown core, lush Beacon Hill Park and a stretch of beach-lined ocean, Fairfield is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Victoria.

HISTORY

The history of Fairfield begins with the First Nations people, who used the area for fishing and hunting. In 1842 James Douglas landed at Clover Point and from there established the centre of the growing settlement at the inner harbour. By the 1850s land in Fairfield was subsidized, prompting the appearance of houses and farms; by the turn of the century the stately homes reflected the growth and prosperity of Victoria. Nearby Beacon Hill Park was created in 1858 and was home to a horse racing track, a small zoo and military training until its current landscape was designed in 1882.

COOK STREET VILLAGE

Conveniently located en route to the beach, Cook Street Village is a quirky collection of local shops, cafes and amenities. The laid back appeal of the Village is evident in the popularity of its five coffee shops, such as Moka House, with its heated patio perfect for all season people-watching. A gourmet pizza from Pizzeria Prima Strada or a variety of international cuisines at the Village Food Court make the perfect take-away meal for the beach at Dallas Road or Beacon Hill Park. The shade of the enormous chestnut trees lining the street make browsing vintage and clothing boutiques a pleasure on a sunny day. Local favourite boutiques include Lark and Sparrow, Kay’s Korner and Surroundings.

DALLAS ROAD

Dallas Road is a beautiful stretch of beaches and walking trails, providing incredible views of the Olympic Mountains and Juan de Fuca Strait. When the sun is shining, head to the rocky beach for a picnic, where plenty of driftwood provides seating. Even on a stormy day, it’s the perfect place to watch kite surfers and breaking waves. From the bottom of Cook Street, one can follow Dallas Road to reach the breakwater walkway with its small lighthouse, or head left for access to sandy Gonzales Beach.

HIDDEN FAIRFIELD

Just a short walk away from the Village is the eerily beautiful Ross Bay Cemetery. With shady mature trees and an ocean view, this Victorian cemetery is home to many well known British Columbians, including artist Emily Carr and pioneer Billy Barker. Nearby, the lively Moss Street Market runs every Saturday from May to October, featuring locally grown produce, arts, crafts and entertainment. One of the best views of Victoria can be found at short walk away at Moss Rock, offering a stunning panorama of the neighbourhood and Juan de Fuca Strait. This small park can be accessed by heading west from Cook Street, crossing Moss Street and turning right up the next short residential street.

Sources:

The Victoria Heritage Foundation for the City of Victoria, This Old House: Victoria’s Heritage Neighbourhoods, Volume Four, Fairfield, Gonzales and Jubilee. Victoria, British Columbia: The Victoria Heritage Foundation, 2009.

"Friends of Beacon Hill Park ". Friends of Beacon Hill Park Society. http://www.friendsofbeaconhillpark.ca/.

Photography by R. Rilkoff