The Castle Gardens
55 hectares of garden artistry
A visit to De Haar Castle doesn’t begin just inside the castle walls. Surrounding the castle is a vast English landscape park featuring themed gardens, water features, old trees, long avenues, and winding paths.
Take some time to go for a walk, discover the stories behind special places, or find a quiet spot on a bench or on the grass. For children, there are plenty of opportunities to play and explore. And if you’d like to stay longer, you can combine a visit to the gardens with a tour of the castle, lunch, or a drink.
Where nature, history, and relaxation come together
Every season has its own charm
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, a spot where the kids can play freely, or a picturesque setting for a picnic, the gardens of De Haar Castle have it all. No matter what time of year you choose, the castle gardens always offer a fresh backdrop for a relaxing visit. In the spring, the plants slowly come to life; in the summer, the monumental trees provide cooling shade; and in the fall, the many trees take on warm autumn hues. Even in the winter, the avenues, sightlines, and unique groups of trees are still worth a stroll. Every season has its own charm, and A visit to the gardens is therefore never the same.
Click on the map for a larger version.
Discover the historic gardens
The history of the gardens dates back to the late 19th century. During the same period in which De Haar Castle underwent extensive reconstruction, the gardens and the surrounding park were also designed by the renowned Dutch landscape architect Hendrik Copijn.
Close to the castle, you’ll find the formal gardens, with carefully laid-out flower beds, water features, and clear sightlines. Further away from the castle, the character changes. Here you can stroll through the English landscape park, where winding paths, groups of trees, open fields, and water features alternate.
The gardens were not just meant to be admired. They were inextricably linked to life at De Haar: people walked, rode horses, played tennis, rowed, and relaxed there. Anyone walking through the park today is, in part, following the same avenues and paths as the Van Zuylen family and their guests.
Walking Trails, Puzzles, and Scavenger Hunts
Discover the many stories behind the park’s highlights via one of the walking trails. Let children explore the castle gardens on a scavenger hunt, navigate the Maze, or have a blast on the playground equipment. The two dining venues round out the visit. Gabrielle Garden House in the gardens or Restaurant Laverie on Stalplein not only offer a delicious menu and a warm welcome but also bring history to life. Both locations provide a unique setting steeped in the past.
Taste, experience and enjoy in our hospitality industry
Practical information
Separate garden tickets are available for garden visits seven days a week. These allow you to explore the park and gardens at your own pace.
Do you have a ticket for the castle? If so, admission to the gardens is included. Always check the current opening hours and admission prices before your visit.
Whether you’re coming for the history, the gardens, a long walk, or an afternoon with the family, the gardens of De Haar are a place to take your time. And with plenty of paths, gardens, and stories to discover, there’s often something left to explore on your next visit.
Buildings
The village
De Haar Vegetable Garden
Address & Contact
- Kasteellaan 1
- 3455 RR Haarzuilens
- 030-6778515
- informatie@kasteeldehaar.nl
