Estate & Castle Duivenvoorde is located in quiet, rural surroundings in the middle of the busy Randstad conurbation. Duivenvoorde is located on the border of Voorschoten, Wassenaar and Leidschendam.
A castle with stories
The castle is medieval in origin, but now rather seventeenth- and eighteenth-century in style. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful pond and offers fine views over the park laid out in English landscape style. The castle is now a museum which can be visited with an audio tour or accompanied by a guide. Duivenvoorde is also an official wedding location and a unique location for business meetings and lively events. Duivenvoorde Castle is one of the oldest castles in South Holland and definitely worth a visit.
History
Duivenvoorde probably got its name from the rivers the Duwe (or Dobbe) and the Voor, between which the castle originated. In 1226, “Duvenvoirt” was mentioned for the first time in a deed settling the inheritance of property. Around 1250, a so-called donjon, a square defensive tower, stood on the site of the current castle. Later, more and more additions were made to the robust defensive tower. Commissioned by Johan van Wassenaer, the castle received its current appearance in 1631.
The Castle
On a guided tour or on your own with an audio tour, you can admire a collection of family portraits, Delftware, Asian and European porcelain and special Loosdrecht dining sets, among other things. The tour and audio tour will take you through various historical rooms including the library, dining room and impressive Marot room.
Walking park on Duivenvoorde estate
A square park with canals was created at Duivenvoorde in the early 17th century. In the early 18th century, Arent IX van Wassenaer had French gardens laid out. The sandstone garden vases that now stand on the bridge along the castle's frontage date back to that time. In the 19th century, the gardens were permanently replaced by an English-style landscape park with ponds that can be admired from then on. The park is open all year round from 8am to 7.30pm. A walking ticket costs 1.50 euro per person.
Pavilion Duivenvoorde
Situated in the beautiful Leidsche garden of Duivenvoorde estate is restaurant Paviljoen Duivenvoorde. This new and unique spot offers you the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Randstad. Take a seat and enjoy the peace and freedom of nature combined with hospitality and quality catering. In the restaurant, fresh local produce and products from the estate are used as much as possible to prepare delicious dishes and delicacies.
Pavilion Duivenvoorde serves breakfast, lunch, high tea and drinks. Pavilion Duivenvoorde is also available for receptions and business meetings.
Opening hours
Castle Duivenvoorde
Thursday to Sunday 11:00 - 17:00
Please note: different opening hours due to events. Check the website of Castle Duivenvoorde for an overview.
Duivenvoorde Park
Daily from 08:00 to 19:30.
Restaurant Pavilion Duivenvoorde
Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
Museum and estate shop
Thursday to Sunday 11:00 - 17:00 hrs.
Accessibility Duivenvoorde
Duivenvoorde Castle is located on the Veurseweg, between Voorschoten and Leidschendam. Duivenvoorde is easily accessible by car, bicycle and public transport. Several bus lines stop at the stops right at the castle's driveway. Duivenvoorde also has ample on-site parking. A parking ticket costs 4 euro and can be purchased on site.
