Amid nature and between bustling cities The Hague and Leiden you will find the insanely beautiful estate of Castle Duivenvoorde. A historic place that has remained in the same family lineage for eight centuries. Castle Duivenvoorde has been open to the public since 1963 and, in our opinion, well worth a visit. Over the years, the castle has always been inhabited by the elite. It therefore had many famous guests. Have you planned a visit to the castle soon? In this blog we share everything you need to know about visiting Duivenvoorde Castle.
History of Duivenvoorde Castle
Without giving too much away, we take you into the history of Duivenvoorde Castle. A beautiful estate which first appears in documentation in the 1200s. At first a defense tower stood on the spot where you find the castle but more and more was added over the years. For eight centuries the castle has been inhabited. It has always passed from family to family through inheritance. Unique in itself, but even more unique is that the contents of the castle have remained virtually intact and within the family. This is what you will see and experience during a visit to Duivenvoorde Castle.
Visit Duivenvoorde Castle with an audio tour
During a visit to the castle, you walk through 800 years of family history. The various rooms give a glimpse of what life was like back then. You step from one century into another. Each room has its own unique décor and style. You can only visit Castle Duivenvoorde with a guided tour including an audio tour. The audio tour is narrated by the family themselves. Their memories as children of the estate and the castle provide an intimate experience.
If you would like to visit Castle Duivenvoorde you need to do the following in advance online buy a ticket.
Parking at Duivenvoorde Castle
When you enter the estate, a large parking lot appears on your right where you can park for free. The castle is easiest (and fastest) to reach by car, but it is also accessible by public transportation or of course by bicycle. The nearest bus stop can be found near the estate.
Take a walk around the estate
Besides the beautiful castle, the surrounding estate is also worth exploring. Extra fun when it's a nice sunny day. The estate is 260 acres with the castle at its center. The garden is completely in English style and dates back to the 13th century. As you can imagine, the flora and fauna is very diverse on this large estate. In the past, the estate was maintained by leasing farms and houses. Currently, there are still three farms attached to the estate. The oldest farm, from 1575, functions as the Castle Farm.. Other farms and homes are now occupied by private individuals. As a green oasis in the busy Randstad conurbation, Duivenvoorde is actively committed to preserving the estate as a living moment of nature. Consider, for example, beekeeping.
Lunch at the Court of Duivenvoorde
On the estate of Castle Duivenvoorde you will find the pavilion Court of Duivenvoorde. Here you can enjoy fresh local produce over breakfast, lunch, high tea or over drinks. On gloomy days you can sit inside, but on sunny days it is advisable to find a nice spot on the terrace or in the garden. Even more fun is that peacocks often scamper around here. Beautiful animals they are!
Staying nearby Castle Duivenvoorde
Unfortunately, it is not possible to stay overnight at Castle Duivenvoorde, but in the immediate vicinity you will find other beautiful places where you can spend the night. Within a five-minute drive you will find Van Der Valk Hotel De Gouden Leeuw. It is one of the "Valk Exclusive" locations with on estate the Valk Fresh Market at its heart, and the pancake house Aunt Tokkie. Other options include the cozy B&B Genesis Voorschoten.
