Top 20 Castles around Aarschot
Best castles around Aarschot are situated in Flemish Brabant, Belgium, a region characterized by its historical significance and varied landscapes. The area features a mix of wooded environments, tranquil lakes, and agricultural lands. This setting provides a backdrop for numerous historical structures, including castles that reflect centuries of regional history. Visitors can explore these landmarks, which range from medieval keeps to Renaissance castles.
Best castles around Aarschot
- The most popular castles is Horst Castle, a castle that is a half-ruined Flemish Renaissance structure picturesquely set on the edge of a lake. It is known for its irregular polygon layout and wide moat, and is open seasonally for visitors.
- Another must-see spot is De Merode Castle, Westerlo, a historical castle that has been inhabited by the Princes de Merode for centuries. This more than 600-year-old structure features a 60-hectare park with a pond and is accessible during annual events.
- Visitors also love Ter Heyden Keep, a residential tower from the mid-fourteenth century. This donjon, built between 1350 and 1363, is considered architecturally unique in Belgium and is situated in the Belgian town of Rotselaar.
- Aarschot is known for its diverse range of castles, including medieval keeps, moated castles, and historical residences. The region offers a variety of structures, from private estates to those open for public exploration or serving as event venues.
- The castles around Aarschot are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1200 upvotes and over 460 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Horst 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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Ter Heyden Keep
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Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall)
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Jeanne de Merode Castle
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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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If a town hall can really be beautiful...
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The core of Horst Castle probably dates back to the 13th century and is characterised by a square keep. The keep probably belonged to the oldest core that was further expanded into a fortified castle in the 15th century. During the troubles under Maximilian of Austria in 1489, the castle of Horst was taken by the people of Leuven and set on fire. According to literary sources, only the keep, part of the entrance gate and a defensive wall remained standing. The residential and east wing were renovated and expanded in the 16th century. The round tower also dates from this period. The outer wall was provided with a rectangular bay window. The castle lost its military character and became more of a pleasant residential area with a view of the moat, the ponds and the inner courtyard. Brick construction with sandstone layers characterise these buildings. In 1587, however, the castle was set on fire again during the raids of the Geuzen. It was not until the beginning of the 17th century that restoration work began. It is difficult to deduce from the available sources to what extent this involved restoration or an embellishing conversion of the castle complex. Presumably nothing changed in the internal structure, but only after the structurally necessary repairs were the interiors completely refinished. Maria-Anna Van den Tympel had a new chapel built against the keep in the 17th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, the complex must have been damaged by plundering and neglect, and it is possible that it also suffered from plundering during the Brabant Revolution of 1830. Around 1850, the castle must have been habitable again, but the castle buildings only served as a farm. In the land registry, the site around the castle is called "De Notelaren Boomgaerd". Around that time, the most dilapidated part must have been demolished, namely the southern part and the superstructure of the gate. The rest of the complex was probably restored with reused demolition material and in traditional style. The castle was divided in 1880, with one part being registered as a school house. In 1897, a further division followed, with two plots being designated as houses. Several restoration campaigns followed in the 20th century. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Horst Castle, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/43619
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Since December, there has been a spire on the castle again after the unstable spire was removed more than four years ago and could be viewed on a wooden platform in the pond. Now it is back. And the other works are also progressing quickly. More about the replaced spire on https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/12/10/torenspits-staat-weer-op-kasteel-van-horst-holsbeek/
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The Donjon Ter Heyden, also known as the tower of Ter Heyden, is a residential tower in the Belgian town of Rotselaar (province of Flemish Brabant) from the mid-fourteenth century. The donjon was built between 1350 and 1363 by order of Gerard van der Heyden, the then bailiff of the Duchy of Brabant, when he acquired the status and funds through a marriage with a noblewoman to erect a building of such calibre.
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The castle of Jeanne de Merode serves as a town hall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Aarschot are open to the public?
While many castles in the region are privately owned, you can visit Horst Castle, which is open seasonally from April to October on Sundays and national holidays, and on weekdays during academic Easter and Summer holidays. Ter Heyden Keep in Rotselaar is also a significant historical site to explore. Jeanne de Merode Castle, which now serves as Westerlo's town hall, is accessible during municipal administrative service hours and for exhibitions.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Aarschot?
Yes, several castles offer family-friendly experiences. Horst Castle is a popular choice, with its picturesque setting and surrounding lakes. De Merode Castle, Westerlo, with its 60-hectare park, hosts annual events that are great for families. Ter Heyden Keep and Jeanne de Merode Castle are also listed as family-friendly.
What natural features can I find near the castles?
The region around Aarschot is rich in natural beauty. Horst Castle is famously set on the edge of a lake, surrounded by a wide moat, and located in the green valley of the Wingebeek. De Merode Castle, Westerlo boasts a large 60-hectare park with a pond. Kasteel van Nieuwland, though primarily an event venue, features an exceptional castle park with ponds, idyllic paths, and romantic bridges, offering a serene natural retreat.
Can I go hiking or running near the castles?
Absolutely! The area around Aarschot offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking and running. For example, there are routes like the 'Demervallei β View of the church loop' or the 'Eikelbergwandeling'. You can explore more options and detailed routes in the Hiking around Aarschot and Running Trails around Aarschot guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Aarschot?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For castles like Horst Castle, which is open seasonally, late spring to early autumn (April to October) is ideal for exploring the grounds and enjoying the pleasant weather. This period also allows for comfortable outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the surrounding nature.
Are there any castles that are dog-friendly?
Yes, if you're visiting with your dog, the grounds around Horst Castle are dog-friendly. However, dogs are generally not permitted inside the castle itself. It's always a good idea to check specific rules for other castle grounds before your visit.
What historical insights can I gain from visiting these castles?
The castles offer a glimpse into centuries of regional history. Horst Castle, with origins dating back to the 12th century, showcases Flemish Renaissance architecture. De Merode Castle, Westerlo has been inhabited by the Princes de Merode for over 500 years. Ter Heyden Keep is an architecturally unique residential tower from the mid-14th century, built by Gerard II Vander Heyden. Schoonhoven Castle, though private, preserves a significant 17th-century chapel with intricate Baroque stucco.
Are any of the castles accessible for wheelchair users?
Accessibility can vary. According to visitor tips, Horst Castle is noted as being difficult to access for wheelchair users and buggies due to its historical structure. For other locations, it's recommended to check directly with the venue for specific accessibility information, especially for older, historical sites.
Where can I find parking near the castles?
Many castles, especially those open to the public or functioning as event venues, typically offer parking facilities. For instance, Horst Castle has parking available. For other locations like Kasteel van Nieuwland, which operates as a hotel and event venue, parking is usually provided for guests. It's advisable to confirm parking availability when planning your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Aarschot?
Visitors frequently appreciate the picturesque settings, historical significance, and the opportunity for outdoor activities. The idyllic moated setting of Horst Castle is often highlighted, as is the unique architecture of Ter Heyden Keep. The extensive parks and natural surroundings, perfect for walks and relaxation, are also highly valued by the komoot community.
Are there any castles that are now used for other purposes?
Yes, some historical castles have found new uses. Jeanne de Merode Castle in Westerlo, built in the early 20th century, now serves as the town hall. Kasteel van Nieuwland functions as an elegant event venue, complete with a hotel, restaurant, and seminar rooms, allowing guests to enjoy its beautiful grounds.
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