Top 20 Castles around Turnhout
Best castles around Turnhout offers a selection of historical sites in and around the city in Belgium's Kempen region. Turnhout is known for its ducal history and proximity to natural landscapes. The area features a mix of medieval architecture and renovated historical buildings. Visitors can explore various castles and castle-like structures within a short distance.
Best castles around Turnhout
- The most popular castles is Borrekens Castle, a castle located in the middle of a forest next to a lane. This privately owned castle features a garden and has been beautifully restored.
- Another must-see spot is De Merode Castle, Westerlo, a castle that has been linked to the history of Westerlo for over five centuries. This more than 600-year-old castle is still inhabited and includes a 60-hectare park with a pond.
- Visitors also love Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall), a castle built between 1909 and 1911. This building, with its impressive appearance and front garden, has served as Westerlo's town hall since 1973.
- Turnhout is known for traditional castles, former monasteries, and castle-like town halls. The region offers a variety of historical buildings, from moated castles to those set within extensive parks.
- The castles around Turnhout are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 250 upvotes and 190 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Borrekens Castle
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De Merode Castle, Westerlo
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The Kasteel de Merode is more than 600 years old and still inhabited by the Princes de Merode. The current resident of the castle is the young Simon de Merode. There are annual castle parties and events that attract a huge crowd.
Westerlo is not called "The pearl of the Kempen" for nothing.
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Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall)
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Jeanne de Merode Castle
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Ter Borght Castle
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The entire domain of the castle is open to the public, it is pleasant to walk in the 20 hectare domain. It can also be combined with a subsequent walk along the Grote Nete!
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Le Paige Castle
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Castle of the Dukes of Brabant (Turnhout)
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Herlaar Castle
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Here you have the opportunity to take really great photos.
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Old castle park Baron Van Eetvelde
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Now only the coach house, old stately trees, an overgrown cobblestone road and contours of the old park pond remind us of a rich past. The former castle park is now used for youth camps.
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Hoogstraten Prison (Former Castle)
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The castle has served various purposes over the years. Built in the 16th century by Rombout II Keldermans, a renowned architect, it originally served a defensive purpose. In the 18th century, the castle was damaged by fire and later looted. After a period of decline, the castle was used as a beggar's asylum, agricultural colony, and refuge in the 19th century. Since 1931, it has been used as a Penitentiary School Center, the only penitentiary in Flanders where inmates systematically receive vocational training.
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Over the years, the castle was modernized and updated. This included the tower, whose heavy line of the fortified wall was broken by irregular window and door arrangements. The castle still houses remarkable works of art. The neo-Gothic armory houses a cast-iron stove from 1539 and two marble Renaissance mantelpieces. The castle also contains important paintings, tapestries, gold leather wallpaper, and furniture in a variety of styles. (Municipality of Westerlo)
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The castle, built between 1909 and 1911 and designed by P. Langerock, was occupied by the Germans during World War II and later became a retirement home for priests. Since 1973, it has served as a town hall with a surrounding municipal park between Boerenkrijglaan, Hollandse dreef, and Merodedreef. The surrounding park features a neo-traditional gatehouse (number 63) and a gardener's house (Hollandse dreef numbers 1-3); and also includes a former sheepfold and pump house. The park surrounding the castle was transformed into an ornamental garden after World War I by the then gardener, F. Verrezen. In front of the castle: a fountain, dating from 1995 and designed by Architektuur Atelier BVBA. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Le Paige Castle dates from 1892 and incorporates elements from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical periods. The interior features hints of Art Nouveau. The castle includes an arboretum. The complex is called Domaine Le Paige, a reference to the Le Paige family who long owned it.
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The castle is surrounded by a moat and an estate of approximately 70 hectares, including meadows and farmland. The castle is not open to the public due to its function as a prison. In the past, the castle also played a role in the Eighty Years' War, where it played a significant role in the battle between Spanish and Dutch troops, according to BENEGO.
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The former castle of Hoogstraten, also known as Gelmelslot, is a castle with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Today, the castle serves as a Penitentiary School Center (PSC), a penitentiary where inmates receive vocational training. The castle has served various purposes over the years. Built in the 16th century by Rombout II Keldermans, a renowned architect, it originally served a defensive purpose. In the 18th century, the castle was damaged by fire and later looted. After a period of decline, the castle was used as a beggar's asylum, agricultural colony, and refuge in the 19th century. Since 1931, it has been used as a Penitentiary School Center, the only penitentiary in Flanders where inmates systematically receive vocational training.
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If a town hall can really be beautiful...
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The castle has been the pride of Vorselaar for centuries. Around 1270, the first stone was laid by the knights of Rotselaar. The ground plan has been largely preserved to this day. The castle houses a treasure trove of history and stories, and has been inhabited by noble families all this time.
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Very beautiful medieval castle in the middle of a beautiful forest. A real relief to come here and walk undisturbed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of castles in the Turnhout region?
The Turnhout region, part of Belgium's Kempen area, is rich in ducal history. The most prominent example is the Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant in Turnhout, dating back to the 12th century as a hunting lodge for the Dukes of Brabant. Other sites like De Merode Castle, Westerlo, have been linked to local history for over five centuries, showcasing a blend of medieval architecture and renovated historical buildings.
Can I visit the Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant in Turnhout?
The Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant in Turnhout currently serves as a courthouse and is not generally open for individual public visits. However, its exterior and grounds are accessible for exploration. Group visits are possible by appointment, offering guided tours that delve into its rich history from cellar to tower. For more historical context, you can visit castles.nl.
What is Priorij Corsendonk and can I visit it?
Priorij Corsendonk, located in Oud-Turnhout, is a former Augustinian monastery founded in 1395. While not a traditional castle, its historical architecture and extensive grounds offer a castle-like ambiance. Since 1975, it has been transformed into a conference center and hotel, allowing visitors to experience its historic atmosphere by staying overnight, attending events, or enjoying its facilities. The 8-hectare green domain is also popular for cycling and hiking.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Turnhout?
Yes, several castles in the region are considered family-friendly. For example, De Merode Castle, Westerlo, with its 60-hectare park and pond, offers ample space for families. The grounds of the Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant are also pleasant for family strolls. Many castle parks, like that of Ter Borght Castle, are open to the public and provide enjoyable outdoor experiences.
Which castles are known for their picturesque settings or unique features?
Borrekens Castle is noted for its beautiful garden and location in the middle of a forest. Ter Borght Castle features a beautiful castle park with three islands in a central pond and centuries-old trees. Herlaar Castle, surrounded by a moat, is praised for its picturesque appearance, offering great photo opportunities.
Are there hiking trails near castles around Turnhout?
Yes, the region offers various hiking opportunities near historical sites. The green domain of Priorij Corsendonk is excellent for walks. You can also find trails near Ter Borght Castle, which is situated on the edge of the Merode area and can be combined with walks along the Grote Nete. For more hiking options, explore the running trails around Turnhout, which often pass by scenic areas.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the castles?
Beyond hiking, the area around Turnhout and its castles is well-suited for cycling and mountain biking. The domain of Priorij Corsendonk is popular for cycling, and many routes pass through the beautiful Kempen countryside. You can find numerous options for cycling around Turnhout or explore MTB trails around Turnhout, which include routes near natural reserves and historical points of interest.
When is the best time to visit the castles around Turnhout?
The castles and their surrounding parks can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather for exploring the grounds and nearby trails. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a unique, serene atmosphere, especially for moated castles. Always check specific opening hours for any interior visits, as these can vary seasonally.
Are there any castles that serve a modern purpose?
Yes, some historical buildings have adapted to modern uses. The Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant functions as a courthouse. Jeanne de Merode Castle, built between 1909 and 1911, has served as Westerlo's town hall since 1973. Priorij Corsendonk, a former monastery, now operates as a conference center and hotel, blending history with contemporary hospitality.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Turnhout?
Visitors frequently appreciate the picturesque settings, the historical significance, and the tranquil atmosphere of the castle grounds. Many enjoy the opportunity to combine castle visits with walks or cycling through the surrounding nature. The blend of well-preserved architecture, beautiful parks, and the connection to Brabant's ducal past are often highlighted.
Are there any castles that are privately owned but still visible?
Yes, Borrekens Castle is a beautifully restored, privately owned castle that can be admired from the outside, located in a forest next to a lane. Similarly, De Merode Castle, Westerlo, is still inhabited by the princely family and can be viewed from its extensive park, though interior visits are typically limited to special events.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles?
While specific cafes directly within every castle are not common, some highlights like Le Paige Castle are noted to have cafe or restaurant facilities. Additionally, the towns and villages surrounding the castles, such as Turnhout and Westerlo, offer various dining options within a short distance, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments after their explorations.
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