Top 20 Castles in South Holland
Best castles in South Holland offer a glimpse into the region's history and diverse landscapes. This province in the Netherlands features a collection of historic castles, ranging from well-preserved estates to impressive ruins. These structures are often situated amidst natural settings, providing opportunities for walking routes and exploration. The area's rich past is reflected in its varied architectural heritage.
Best castles in South Holland
- The most popular castles include Keukenhof Castle, a castle that features an extensive estate with gardens, a petting zoo, and a restaurant. It is known for its diverse offerings and the surrounding Keukenhof forest.
- Another must-see spot is Oud Poelgeest Castle, a castle dating from 1668. It is surrounded by a beautiful estate and offers a restaurant in its 19th-century Koetshuis, with a terrace available in summer.
- Visitors also love Castle of Leiden, a castle located on an artificial mound where the two arms of the Rhine converge. After ascending its many steps, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic view of the city.
- South Holland is known for its well-preserved castles, historic country houses, and castle ruins. The region offers a variety of structures, from medieval fortifications to monumental estates, providing insights into different historical periods.
- The castles in South Holland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 690 upvotes and over 220 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Peace Palace
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Castle of Leiden
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When you have walked the many steps, a beautiful view of the city awaits you.
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Noordeinde Palace
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In the Government Gazette of 8 July 1842, Minister of the Interior Willem Anne Schimmelpenninck van der Oye announced that a nationwide collection would be started for the erection of a statue of “Willem den Eersteen”, to be placed on one of the squares of Den Hedge. The design of the “national monument of gratitude” was determined by the aforementioned institute in collaboration with member and sculptor Louis Royer. King William II cooperated in the project. Royer designed a statue of a standing male figure and depicted the prince as a statesman.
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Keukenhof Castle
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Oud Poelgeest Castle
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The Burcht
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Gevangenpoort (Prison Gate)
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Duivenvoorde Castle
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Huys ten Donck
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Teylingen Castle Ruins
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The castle can be visited on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can find more information here: kasteelteylingen.nl
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Popular around South Holland
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Pilgrim Trail (LAW 7-1) - Through idyllic villages and vast polders
Naples to North Cape — Two friends, one purpose and many scoops of ice-cream
LF Maasroute – From Maastricht to Rotterdam along the Meuse River
From Amsterdam to London - along the North Sea and across the water
The North Sea Coast Cycle Route — Netherlands and Belgium
The Rhine Cycle Path — From the source to the North Sea
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
The Hollands Duin on foot – walking between forests, dunes and sea
Hiking around Noordwijk – routes with dunes, flowers and sea
Other adventures in South Holland
Tips from the Community
Huys ten Donck is a monumental country house dating from 1746, located in Ridderkerk, South Holland. It is surrounded by a beautiful 18th-century park in the English landscape style. The house is still privately occupied by descendants of the original family and is occasionally open for tours, events, and weddings. The estate is also popular for walking in the green surroundings.
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Teylingen Castle in Voorhout is a round moated castle with a keep. It served to protect the Rhine dike and the road to Haarlem. The outer bailey was built in the 14th century. In the 17th century, Teylingen burned down and fell into ruin. P.S. The adjacent building is a RUIN IN THE PROGRESS.
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Royal residence of the Dutch monarchs from the 16th century, not open to the public.
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Ruins of Teylingen Castle Imposing ruins of a 13th century castle with a large outer wall, views from the towers and a moat.
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If a flag flies on the roof of the neoclassical palace, King William-Alexander is conducting his business. There's always a chance that the monarch and his wife, Maxima, will make an appearance. Otherwise, the city palace belongs to the private sphere of the Dutch royals.
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It's beautiful there, I would just avoid going on April 12th due to the crowds and road closures for the flower parade.
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Willem van Teylingen is the first known feudal lord of the Castle in the 13th century. See also www.kasteelteylingen.nl
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in South Holland are particularly family-friendly?
Several castles in South Holland offer great experiences for families. Keukenhof Castle features an extensive estate with a petting zoo, flower garden, and the surrounding Keukenhof forest. Oud Poelgeest Castle is surrounded by a beautiful estate perfect for exploring, and Castle of Leiden offers a fun climb to a panoramic view. Duivenvoorde Castle also has English Gardens ideal for walking and picnicking.
What are the best castles to visit for a deep dive into history?
For a rich historical experience, Duivenvoorde Castle stands out as one of South Holland's oldest, dating back to the 13th century and remaining in the same family for eight centuries. Castle of Leiden is considered one of the oldest extant castles in the Netherlands. The Gevangenpoort (Prison Gate) in The Hague, a medieval gatehouse that served as a prison, also offers a significant historical insight.
Are there walking or hiking routes near the castles in South Holland?
Yes, many castles are situated in natural settings with walking opportunities. The estate surrounding Oud Poelgeest Castle is beautiful for walks, and Duivenvoorde Castle features English Gardens. The green surroundings of Huys ten Donck are also popular for walking. For more extensive options, you can find various easy hikes in the region, including routes like the 'Royal walk through the Haagse Bos' or 'Langeveld Route – Hollands Duin'. Explore more hiking routes in South Holland here.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in South Holland?
Beyond walking around the castle grounds, South Holland offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find gravel biking routes, such as the 'Kinderdijk Windmills Loop', or road cycling routes like 'Round Hoek van Holland along the coast'. For more details on cycling, check out the gravel biking guide or the road cycling guide for South Holland.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in South Holland?
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for visiting castles in South Holland, as the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor estates and gardens. This is especially true for places like Keukenhof Castle, which is known for its flower gardens. Many castle restaurants, such as the one at Oud Poelgeest Castle, also offer outdoor terraces during the summer.
Are there any castles in South Holland that offer panoramic views?
Yes, the Castle of Leiden, situated on an artificial mound, rewards visitors with a beautiful panoramic view of the city after ascending its many steps. The Binnenhof in The Hague, while not a traditional castle, also offers a great view, especially at sunset.
Can I find food and drink options near the castles?
Many castles and their estates offer dining options. Oud Poelgeest Castle has a restaurant in its 19th-century Koetshuis with a summer terrace. Keukenhof Castle also features a restaurant on its extensive estate. Additionally, the towns and cities surrounding these historical sites often have various cafes and pubs.
Which castles are easily accessible by public transport or offer parking?
Castle of Leiden is centrally located in Leiden, making it accessible. Duivenvoorde Castle is approximately 30 minutes from Leiden and easily accessible by bike. For those driving, Oud Poelgeest Castle is known to have parking facilities.
Are there any castle ruins to explore in South Holland?
Yes, South Holland is home to some interesting castle ruins. The Teylingen Castle Ruins are a notable historical site to visit. Additionally, the ruins of Huis te Woude Castle in Ridderkerk, though less preserved, offer a glimpse into the region's past.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2931155" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Keukenhof Castle</a> a unique visit?
Keukenhof Castle is unique for its extensive estate, which includes not only the castle but also a vegetable garden, a flower garden, a petting zoo, a restaurant, a sculpture garden, and the famous Keukenhof forest. It offers a diverse range of attractions beyond just the historical building itself.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles in South Holland?
While many castles are well-known, Huys ten Donck in Ridderkerk, a monumental country house from 1746 with an 18th-century English landscape park, remains privately occupied but is occasionally open for tours, events, and weddings, offering a more exclusive experience. Duivenvoorde Castle, while historic, is remarkable for having never been sold, only inherited, providing a unique continuous family history.
What kind of historical structures are there in The Hague that are similar to castles?
In The Hague, the Peace Palace, though not a traditional castle, is an imposing historical sight housing international legal institutions. The Binnenhof, originally William the Second's castle, now serves as the seat of the Dutch government. The Gevangenpoort (Prison Gate) is a medieval gatehouse that functioned as a prison, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
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