840 | Duivenvoorde Castle - Voorschoten

Duivenvoorde was originally a 13th century residual tower surrounded by a moat. The castle got today’s design by extensive renovations taking place in 1631 and 1717. Since then it acts as a retreat for wealthy noble families fleeing from busy city life during the summer months. The castle and the surrounding estate (260 hectares) became a foundation in 1960. The castle, which boasts authentic interiors dating from the 17th to 19th century, was opened as a museum to the public. Duivenvoorde is one of the oldest castles located in the province of South Holland and has a unique collection of family portraits, objects from real silver, Delft Blue pottery and porcelain. The museum does not grant access to individual visitors, but you can join one of the daily guided tours offered from April to October. Year round, visitors can enjoy a walk in the surrounding English landscape gardens (for a small fee) and have coffee or lunch in the brand-new visitors pavilion “Hof van Duivenvoorde”.