Everytime I drive by I swear I have to come back when I have more time. I am usually on my way through New Westminster, running an errand or on my way to the ferry, but the old CPR Station building always catches my attention.
This is no ordinary old railway station building. The magnificent red brick Victorian structure dates back to 1899, replacing an earlier wood structure that burned down in 1898.The steeply pitched hipped bellcast roofs give a picturesque chateau style. It was one of a number of stations designed by Architect Edward Maxwell for the CPR.
This Heritage building, sadly, now sits empty, once a thriving, popular Keg Restaurant until 2013 when the need for extensive repair caused the restaurant to close.
The building sits back on an expanse of cobblestone courtyard, surrounded by towering glass office and condo towers. Standing aside, I consider the merger of the old and new and find the city or the developers, or whoever planned the area , have done a good job. It is neither overpowered or out of place. The adjacent courtyard and sculpture provides respectful space and invites you to linger and visit.
It also leads visitors to the stairway and walkway that takes you up and over the original, and still functioning, railway line. Having never explored the area, this is a bonus.
I pause as I climb the steps, looking back I can see the Station from the railway track side. Here would have been the platform where passengers waited or disembarked from the train. Imagine long-gowned women with jacquard valises and bonnets or men with waistcoats and handlebar mustaches bidding their good-byes on the platform as the whistle blows and the train slowly chugs out. The track is still in use. A line of dated cars sit on the spur, waiting.
Continuing across the overpass, I discover Westminster Quay and River Market. A wide and welcoming boardwalk runs alongside the mighty Fraser River. Working tugs pull giant barges many times their size. The smell of fresh cut cedar fills the air as a tug passes with a barge of lumber.
Along the Quay are restaurants and cafes with sidewalk tables. People relax, visit, enjoying a sunny spring day. I stop to admire the World's Tallest Tin Soldier (so the sign claims!) A little further I see a sign, "Paddleboat Rentals" and follow, the bright red paddle wheel is still, not operating today. Perhaps another day.
To the east, in the distance layered bridges span the river. The orange arc of the dated Pattulo Bridge in front of the massive silver structure of the new Port Mann.
Exploring further, I enter River Market on the Quay. Here local vendors and merchants offer fresh and varied selections. Donald's Market with its fresh local, organic produce and groceries that won't take your whole paycheck, having won numerous awards for best independent grocery store.
The tantalizing aromas from Pamola Bakery invites you in for fresh baking and coffee. La Grotta del Fromaggio's tempting deli counter offers a taste of Italy in its cheeses, meats, oils and sandwiches. With dozens of shops and merchants to choose from you can browse or shop. There is always something going on. An artisan market, drop-in classes by local artists, events and activities. See what's on at rivermarket.ca .
Westminster Quay is a welcome change to the hustle bustle of Granville Island, Steveston or Lonsdale Quay, offering the same amenities without the crowds. And its easy to get there. Westminster Quay is right on the skytrain line, just 25 minutes from Vancouver.
Westminister Quay and River Market is located at
810 Quayside Drive, New Westminster..
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Video Tour
