Top 20 Castles around Lokeren
Best castles around Lokeren offer a blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. Lokeren, a municipality in East Flanders, Belgium, features several notable castles, some integrated into public parks. These sites provide insights into regional history and architectural development. The area's castles range from moated structures to 19th-century mansions, often surrounded by landscaped gardens and walking paths.
Best castles around Lokeren
- The most popular castles is Berlare Castle Park, a castle that features an 18th-century structure surrounded by a large landscaped garden with avenues, a forest, and ponds. The castle park has been accessible to walkers and cyclists since 2012.
- Another must-see spot is Walburg Moated Castle, a 16th-century moated castle located within the 7-hectare Romain de Vidtspark. Its facade and a wing date from the late 17th century, showcasing Flemish Renaissance and Brabant Gothic architectural styles.
- Visitors also love Puyenbrug Castle, a castle built in 1881. Since 1976, this building has housed the Mill Museum, Mola, and is part of the Puyenbroeck provincial domain.
- Lokeren is known for moated castles, historical remnants, and 19th-century mansions. These sites offer a variety of architectural styles and historical contexts to explore.
- The castles around Lokeren are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 100 photos and 180 upvotes.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Berlare Castle Park
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The castle and outbuildings are not open to the public, but the park is.
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Puyenbrug Castle
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Address: Puyenbrug 5, 9185 Wachtebeke
Opening hours:
Closed ⋅ Opens Wed at 9:30am
· More times
Telephone: 09 342 42 40
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Walburg Moated Castle
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(Flanders Heritage)
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Blauwendael Castle
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Access to the castle park with the actual main entrance located on Kerkstraat between two terraced houses; closed by iron fencing on four iron bundle pillars, crowned in typical fashion with spearheads and upright laurel wreath. On Gentstraat, the castle park on the street side is partly closed off by a brick garden wall. The part with younger masonry (presumably from the interwar period) adjacent to the side entrance in the northwest corner with an entrance gate on robust masonry gate pillars with crowning. Two 19th-century outbuildings, older than the current castle, are located on Gentstraat, both on one side adjoining another part of the castle garden wall.
(Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Ter Weiden Castle
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(Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Former notary's house in Kalken.
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Between 1994 and 2015, twenty-two trees were planted in the park, symbolising laureates of the cultural prize. This annual municipal prize recognises an exceptional achievement or important contribution in the socio-cultural field. To honour them all, the twenty-two names are collected on a plaque on the wall of the castle and symbolically accompanied by a tree in the park. The 2018 laureate, Ivan Du-Tré, also features on this commemorative element. He was honoured as the author of the book 'Waasmunster in the Great War', a thorough reference work with short stories about life in our municipality during WWI. Source: information board on site
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In 1550, knight Willem van Waelwijck united the existing lordships of Van der Moeren and Willemaers into a fief, the "Hof van Walburg", named after his wife Walburgh. He had a new building constructed there, a typical moated castle in traditional sand and brick style. In addition to the castle, the domain consisted of an orchard, a garden with two avenues. It included an upper and lower court. For many years, the title "Lord of Walburg" was transferred by inheritance or sale. The successive owners gave the castle domain various purposes, including a brewery, a pharmacy and a residence. In 1789, the French Republic abolished the title Lord of Walburg. In 1846, the castle came into the hands of the Van Naemen family. Jozef Felix Van Naemen renovated the castle according to the then current taste and lifestyle. The domain acquired a purely residential character. The last residents were the unmarried sisters Alix, Gabriélla and Elisabeth Van Naemen. The grounds of the domain were expropriated in 1949. In the same year, the Sint-Niklaas municipal council decided to purchase the "castle with dependencies and lands". In 1950, part of the domain was lost for the construction of the Parklaan. In 1952, the castle domain, redesigned by landscape architect Braeckman, was officially opened as a city park. In 1975, the castle was protected as a monument and the surroundings as a landscape. In 1983, the city council had a restoration file drawn up for the castle. In the same year, the bandstand, which stood on the Grote Markt until 1966, was rebuilt in the vicinity of the castle. In 1987, the city park was given its current name, the "Romain De Vidtspark" named after the mayor of Sint-Niklaas who was the driving force behind the purchase of the castle. In 1994, the restored and redesigned Walburg castle was reopened to the public. The caretaker's house was protected as a monument in 1999. Source: information board on site
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In 1868, the undeveloped and deep plot on the Vaartstraat of notary Adolphe Tibbaut (1824-1895) was registered in the land register as a "jardin d'agrément" or pleasure garden, followed in 1870 by the construction of the mansion. The year 1869, mentioned on a facade stone in the right side wall, probably refers to the start of construction. The coach house with horse stables that was built at the same time next to the castle, was extended towards the street side in 1873 (according to the land register archive). (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Located in a green oasis in the middle of the city, the 16th-century Walburg Castle beckons. It is one of the most idyllic places in the city, especially on a sunny day. Willem van Waelwijck named his manor and his moated castle after his wife, Walburgis. The castle also included a pigeon tower and a very extensive park. Over the centuries, the castle served as a herb garden, brewery and warehouse and provided housing for knights, chief aldermen and mayors. Every Tuesday evening in July and August, locals and tourists gather around Walburg Castle for the fun Walburg concerts, now officially renamed Parkies.
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During the preparation of the works, all areas of the castle and the outbuildings were cleared of "disturbing elements", so that the rooms now show their spaciousness of yesteryear in all their glory. Some interesting notes also emerged that provide a unique view of the history of the castle. This is how they came across the signatures of the craftsmen who worked in the castle in the distant past. Source: https://www.berlare.be/
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In-depth restoration work on the castle has started since May 2023. The historic castle, outbuildings and orangery will be repurposed as the administrative center for municipal services. The works will last two years. The castle park will remain accessible during the works. Although certain parts are currently closed due to the site organization and the safety of visitors. The castle is now barely visible (as my photos show).
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Puyenbrug Castle is a castle built in 1881 that has been part of the Puyenbroeck provincial domain since its foundation in 1965. Since 1976, this building has housed the Mill Museum, Mola. Wikipedia Address: Puyenbrug 5, 9185 Wachtebeke Opening hours: Closed ⋅ Opens Wed at 9:30am · More times Telephone: 09 342 42 40
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Lokeren are family-friendly?
Several castles in the Lokeren area offer family-friendly experiences. Berlare Castle Park features a large landscaped garden with avenues, a forest, and ponds, accessible for walkers and cyclists. Puyenbrug Castle, which houses the Mill Museum Mola, is part of the Puyenbroeck provincial domain, offering a broader recreational area. Walburg Moated Castle is situated within the 7-hectare Romain de Vidtspark, providing a picturesque setting for a family outing. Additionally, Blauwendael Castle has a public park with walking paths and a pond, ideal for a stroll.
Are there historical castles to explore near Lokeren?
Yes, the region boasts several castles with rich histories. Walburg Moated Castle, built in 1550, showcases Flemish Renaissance and Brabant Gothic architectural styles. Berlare Castle Park features an 18th-century structure with a history dating back to a site with moats from the 17th century. Puyenbrug Castle, built in 1881, now houses the Mill Museum Mola, preserving industrial heritage. Blauwendael Castle, while its current structure dates to 1889-1890, stands on a domain with history stretching back to a moated mansion from 1607-1608. The Kasteel van Sterrebeek, though mostly remnants, also holds historical significance from the 16th century.
What natural features can I find around the castles in Lokeren?
Many castles in the Lokeren area are integrated into beautiful natural settings. Berlare Castle Park includes a large landscaped garden with avenues, a forest, and ponds. Walburg Moated Castle is nestled within the 7-hectare Romain de Vidtspark. Blauwendael Castle is surrounded by a 4 to 4.5-hectare public park designed in a landscape style, featuring walking paths, ornamental lawns, a pond, and mature trees up to 200 years old, including weeping beeches, brown beeches, oaks, and horse chestnuts.
Are there walking paths or hiking trails near the castles?
Yes, several castles are located within or adjacent to areas with walking paths and hiking trails. The park surrounding Berlare Castle Park has been accessible to walkers and cyclists since 2012. Blauwendael Castle is set within a public park with dedicated walking paths. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Moervaartmeersen – Chapel of the Cross loop from Daknam' or the 'De Buylaers Nature Reserve – Molsbroek Nature Reserve loop from Lokeren', which are part of the broader Hiking around Lokeren guide.
Can I cycle near the castles in Lokeren?
Absolutely. The park around Berlare Castle Park is open to cyclists. For longer rides, the region offers various cycling routes. You can find options like the 'Hidden treasures - East Flanders' or the 'Cycling Bridge Over the Durme – Verloren Bos, Lokeren loop from Lokeren' in the Cycling around Lokeren guide. These routes often pass through scenic areas, potentially near other historical sites.
Which castles have public access to their grounds or interiors?
The parks of several castles are publicly accessible. The park at Berlare Castle Park is open to walkers and cyclists, though the castle building itself is not. Similarly, Blauwendael Castle's park is open to the public, and the castle itself is used for events like weddings and exhibitions. Walburg Moated Castle is located within the public Romain de Vidtspark. Puyenbrug Castle houses the Mill Museum Mola, which has specific opening hours for visitors.
Are there any castles near Lokeren that are dog-friendly?
While specific dog policies for each castle's interior or immediate grounds can vary, many of the castle parks in the Lokeren area are generally dog-friendly, especially for walks on a leash. For example, the large landscaped parks of Berlare Castle Park and Blauwendael Castle are suitable for walks with dogs. Always check for local signage regarding dog access and leash requirements.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Lokeren?
The best time to visit the castles and their surrounding parks around Lokeren is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor grounds and parks, and the gardens are in full bloom. Autumn (September-October) also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Some castles, like Puyenbrug Castle (Mill Museum Mola), have specific opening hours, so it's advisable to check those in advance.
Are there parking facilities available at the castles?
Yes, parking is generally available at or near the castles with public access. Berlare Castle Park and Blauwendael Castle are noted to have parking facilities. For other locations, public parking is usually found nearby, especially for those integrated into municipal parks or provincial domains.
What kind of events or activities are held at the castles?
Some castles in the Lokeren area host events. Walburg Moated Castle, for instance, is known for hosting the 'Walburg concerts' (now officially renamed Parkies) on Tuesday evenings in July and August. Blauwendael Castle is used as a wedding hall, exhibition, and association space by the municipality. Puyenbrug Castle houses the Mill Museum Mola, offering cultural and educational activities.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Lokeren?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical architecture with serene natural landscapes. The picturesque settings, such as the 7-hectare Romain de Vidtspark surrounding Walburg Moated Castle, are highly valued. The accessibility of castle parks for walking and cycling, like at Berlare Castle Park and Blauwendael Castle, is also a major draw. The historical context and the opportunity to explore different architectural styles, from moated structures to 19th-century mansions, are frequently highlighted.
Are there any castles that are not publicly accessible?
Yes, some castles in the region are not publicly accessible. For example, Ter Weiden Castle and its garden are not accessible to the public as it currently serves as a Special Youth Care facility. While the park of Berlare Castle Park is open, the castle building itself is not.
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