A noble life cannot exist without staff. Around 1900, it was only natural for noble families to employ servants. Anyone who counted for even a little bit had at least two "maids." Although much of the staff was brought over especially for the September residence from their other homes and country estates, there were also regulars who worked year-round at the Dutch castle.

Upstairs & downstairs
At De Haar, there were downstairs (kitchen, basement) and upstairs (bell floor). Downstairs the staff cooked, ate, played games and could see on a bell-board who had "schemed." Upstairs, elite life played out. The life of the family and its guests. The staff's sleeping quarters were on the third floor.

The staff did not have it bad at De Haar and certainly much better than other Dutch elite. All staff bedrooms had central (steam) heating, iron cribs and functional furniture and even running water. Extraordinarily comfortable for the time. The baron was also proud to have arranged things so well for his staff.

With the exclusive guided tour 'In the service of the nobility' you will get to the third floor, along sneak routes of the staff, that linen room and other rooms that normally remain closed to visitors. Find out all about the life of the staff at De Haar.

Visitor information

'In the service of nobility' can be booked daily with your castle visit from October 1 to March 31, 2025* for an additional €5.00 per person. Duration: 45 to 60 minutes. When booking tickets, choose 'Castle visit + guided tour'. The tour is in Dutch, an English handout is available for non-native speakers. Due to the many stairs, the tour is unfortunately not suitable for people with mobility problems.

*Excluding national holidays.

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