Things to do in Langley, BC

Start with the fort, because it explains the whole town. Fort Langley National Historic Site recreates a Hudson's Bay Company trading post in rough-hewn timber on the banks of the Fraser, with costumed interpreters who are happy to talk shop. This is the date where one of you asks a costumed stranger a follow-up question and the other falls a little harder. Adult admission is $10, and youth 17 and under get in free. Parks Canada has closed the bastions and upper gallery for conservation work, but the rest of the site is open, and you can even sleep inside the walls in an oTENTik. Afterwards, the Fort-to-Fort Trail heads along the river to a cairn in Derby Reach that marks where the first fort stood. Walk as far as you like, then turn back toward the village.

The farm side is slower. Township 7 has made wine on 16th Avenue since 2000 and grows Chardonnay and Pinot Noir there for its seven stars sparkling; it opens daily from 11 am to 6 pm and recommends booking tastings. Balance the glass with a walk. Campbell Valley's Little River Loop is a gentle 2.3 km return with raised boardwalks over the river, and the park's Annand/Rowlatt Farmstead has restored buildings from 1898. Derby Reach's Houston Trail is a 4 km forest loop with rolling hills and a few steep pitches, so wear shoes that aren't trying to impress anyone. Sendall Gardens in Langley City is the small, quiet option, though its tropical greenhouse only opens from April 1 to October 1. Our plan: one tasting, one walk, and the designated driver gets first pick of dinner.