Duivenvoorde Castle is located near The Hague, between Voorschoten and Leidschendam. A tree-lined avenue leads you to the stately mansion. The name Duivenvoorde comes from the rivers the Duve and the Voor, between which the castle once stood. The castle is mentioned in historical documents dating back as far as 1226 thus making it one of the oldest castles in the province of South Holland. You can take walks in the surrounding English landscape garden all year round. During the museum season, from April through October, you can also have a look inside the castle.
- Duivenvoorde Castle is one of the oldest castles of the province South Holland.
- Discover how the nobility used to live in the house, which is still in its original state.
- Enjoy a walk through the English landscape garden.
Visit the Duivenvoorde country estate
Duivenvoorde was originally a 13th-century residential tower with a moat around it. Its defensive role became less and less important, and the castle became a place for rich, noble families to escape city life during the summer months. The castle was given its current look thanks to the extensive refurbishments that were carried out in 1631 and 1717. Since 1960, the castle is open to the public as a museum. Duivenvoorde has a unique collection of family portraits, silver objects, Delft Blue pottery and Chinese and European porcelain.
Duivenvoorde Castle collection
The beautiful entrance hall is still in its original state. Take a guided tour past the gorgeous rooms which have been decorated to appear as if people are still living in them. The tour will take you past the highlights of the collection, including the library in Empire style, a cabinet with gold leather wallpaper, the “Turkish Room” with its chintz wall covering, a fully furnished ironing room, and ending in the gorgeous and stately Marot Room. The tours may only be taken accompanied by a guide, and are given Tuesday through Saturday starting at 2:00 p.m.
