Highlights of the castle and estate Duivenvoorde Voorschoten
Algemeen Kunst & CultuurVoorschoten - Duivenvoorde is a unique and still inhabited castle and estate, with its roots in the 13th century. Once, a large, square defence tower could be found here. The remnants of this tower can still be seen in the facade of the castle and the Voorhuis (front house). In the late Middle Ages, the need for living space grew, so around the tower, which continued to exist until the 17th several wings arose. www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl/en
Collection online
Duivenvoorde features a beautiful, centuries-old art collection. The (family) portraits, prints, drawings, sculptures, furniture, porcelain, silver, costumes, books and the archive have been collected through the centuries by the inhabitants of Duivenvoorde. Take a look at the portraits online. www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl/en
Fourteen historic interiors
Duivenvoorde Castle has fourteen historic interiors, spanning the 17th through the 19th centuries, which are open to the public. Because Duivenvoorde was never sold but always passed on - collection and all - through inheritance, the owners' presence can still be keenly felt today. The rooms are furnished as if they are still being used, and therefore give off an authentic atmosphere. Every room has its own distinct character. see also: www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl/en
English landscape park
The idea of revitalising the park around the castle took shape in the Duivenvoorde park recovery plan of landscape architect Michael van Gessel. In the nineteenth century, landscape architect David Jan Zocher Jr transformed the formal baroque garden from the eighteenth century into an English landscape park. Over the years, however, the park lost much of its natural vitality and became neglected. In the park recovery plan, renewed vitality, structure, and spaciousness are the main ingredients.
In recent years, the implementation of the Duivenvoorde park recovery plan, from landscape architect Michael van Gessel, has been met with great care. The results are fantastic: restoration of natural vitality, of old sight lines and contours, and of centuries-old allure. The park also offers more walking and resting possibilities nowadays. To celebrate this special moment, a film about the Duivenvoorde landscape park was made. www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl/en
Wedding at the castle
Are you looking for a romantic and stylish venue in the Leiden - Den Haag area for your wedding photoshoot, your civil marriage ceremony, or even for celebrating your entire wedding day? Duivenvoorde is one of the oldest castles in the province of South Holland and forms a unique ensemble of castle, park and estate. Because of its historic ambience and beautiful location, Duivenvoorde Castle is an excellent choice of venue, with over 100 parking spaces. For small or large groups, for a festive and informal afternoon drink, a stylish dinner, or an intimate party night for all your guests. www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl/en
Opening hours en entrance fees
The park is open all year, from 8 AM until sunset (no later than 7.30 PM). Dogs are not allowed in the park.
Entrance fees:
Adults € 1 (65 and older, and children younger than 16 € 0.50 ). Entrance tickets are available at the machine in the car park. A ticket also allows you to visit the neighbouring Royal estate 'De Horsten'. Do you already have a valid entrance ticket to the museum? Then you may enter the park for free.
Annual hiking ticket
If you enjoy hiking on the Duivenvoorde estate regularly, consider purchasing a (family) annual hiking ticket. An annual hiking ticket costs €16, and €8 if you are 65 and older. More information is available here.
For more information you can also reach the grounds caretaker, Mr D. de Vlieger, on business days between 9 AM and 5 PM (+31 (0)6-111 26 939 or landgoed@kasteelduivenvoorde.nl).
https://www.kasteelduivenvoorde.nl/the-castle/duivenvoorde/image-gallery/
