Best castles around Schipluiden offer a glimpse into the rich history of the Midden-Delfland region. Schipluiden, historically home to the Keenenburg water castle, is situated in a polder landscape. While the original Keenenburg castle was demolished in 1798, its foundations and a reconstructed turret provide insight into its past. The broader region features historical sites that reflect centuries of Dutch heritage and architecture.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
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Royal residence of the Dutch monarchs from the 16th century, not open to the public.
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Supposedly the office of our prime minister. Although quite small compared to other heads of state, the prime minister in Holland is not the head of state, as that role is assumed by the king. The king himself, however, is not allowed to make state decisions.
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A small lake in the center of The Hague, right next to the Binnenhof. Unfortunately, the view is currently somewhat limited due to construction work.
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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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In the middle of this court pond lies a small island. Some students once shot paper darts with cannabis seeds and compost in them with blowpipes. As a result, a cannabis plantation spontaneously grew in the court pond.
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Of course it's a great palace, but it's pretty built in and simply lacks the space to develop further.
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The royal family's property. Unfortunately, but understandably of course, can only be admired partially and from a sufficient distance ;-)
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A noble estate of the royal family
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Keenenburg was a prominent water castle in Schipluiden from the early 15th century until its demolition in 1798. It played a strategic role during the Eighty Years' War and was depicted by many artists. Although no longer standing, a portion of the southwest turret and connecting walls have been reconstructed on its original foundations, offering a tangible link to its past. You can learn more about its history at the Keenenburg Wikipedia page.
Yes, the Museum Het Tramstation in Schipluiden features a 'Keenenburgkamer' (Keenenburg room) dedicated to the castle's history. Here, you can see archaeological finds, a model of the castle, historical prints, and even use VR glasses for an immersive experience of Keenenburg's exterior and interior.
Several historical sites around Schipluiden are family-friendly. These include the Peace Palace, Noordeinde Palace, Gevangenpoort (Prison Gate), and the Binnenhof. These locations offer insights into Dutch history and architecture in an accessible way.
Yes, the former site of Keenenburg Castle is a highlight of a historical walking route through Schipluiden, which conveniently starts and ends at Museum Het Tramstation. For other hiking options in the broader area, you can explore routes like 'Through the Woudse Bos and the polder' or 'Mill The Young Peter – Bench with a view loop' on the Hiking around Schipluiden guide.
The Midden-Delfland region offers various cycling routes. You can find easy touring bicycle routes such as 'Holy Spirit Church, Delft – Bridge in Schipluiden loop' or 'Museum De Timmerwerf loop'. For road cycling, there are routes like 'Vliet Riverside Path – Tranquil Path Along the Vliet loop'. More details are available in the Cycling around Schipluiden and Road Cycling Routes around Schipluiden guides.
The Binnenhof, with its origins as a castle, is the center of Dutch politics. You can walk freely in its courtyard, and it offers great photo opportunities, especially at night. The nearby View of the Binnenhof and the Hofvijver provides excellent perspectives of the complex.
The Peace Palace is noted as wheelchair accessible. While the historical sites in the region vary in accessibility, many public areas around monuments like the Binnenhof are generally accessible.
The Midden-Delfland region, with its polder landscape and historical sites, is pleasant to visit during spring and summer when the weather is mild and the landscape is green. However, many indoor attractions like museums and palaces are open year-round, offering historical insights even in colder months.
The region showcases a range of historical architecture, from the remnants of water castles like Keenenburg to the more elaborate royal residences and governmental buildings. You'll find examples of early fortifications, such as the former motte-and-bailey castles like Huis ten Dorp, alongside grander structures like Noordeinde Palace and the medieval Gevangenpoort.
Visitors appreciate the rich history and the imposing architecture of sites like the Peace Palace. The Gevangenpoort is noted for being a unique medieval gatehouse and an interesting museum. The Binnenhof and Hofvijver are popular for their scenic views, especially at sunset.
Yes, the View of the Binnenhof and the Hofvijver offers excellent perspectives of the historic parliamentary complex and the surrounding cityscape, particularly beautiful at sunset.
Historically, the Midden-Delfland region was home to water castles, like the Keenenburg, and earlier motte-and-bailey castles, such as Huis ten Dorp in Schipluiden. These structures illustrate the evolution of castle building in the area, from early fortifications to more elaborate water defenses.


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