Gurney Drive
North Beach, Penang

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Gurney Drive, or Persiaran Gurney, is famous throughout Malaysia and possibly abroad as synonymous with Penang food. Named in honour of Sir Henry Gurney, the British High Commissioner who was ambushed and assassinated by guerillas of the Malayan Communist Party on 6 October 1951 near Fraser's Hill in Pahang.

View of the sea at Gurney Drive

Before it got its present name, Gurney Drive was known as North Beach. Even in its early days, the esplanade lined with casuarinas was a popular recreational spot. The wealthy built beach-side bungalows here, many of which are today incorporated into the design of upscale condominiums.

Although Gurney Drive is often thought of as having some of the most modern skyscrapers in Penang, it is also where you will find handsome homes belonging to the well-to-do of yesteryears. One of these is the Loke Mansion. Also at Gurney Drive is the St Joseph's Novitiate.