Bedum: Churches, Cultural Landscape and Routes

In Bedum, church and school architecture tell the story of the town just as much as traces of peatland drainage and paths along the water. The town developed around the 10th century on two low dwelling mounds in an area of peatland drainage and cultivation. Around 1200, the Wolddijk was built as a visible result of the area's cultivation history. The Boterdiep forms Bedum's central axis. These milestones span the early history of settlement, the cultivation of the land and later buildings.

Churches, History and Architectural Styles

The Roman Catholic Church of Maria ten Hemelopneming was built in 1880/81 in the Neo-Gothic style, based on a design by architect Alfred Tepe, and put into use in 1881. This specifies both the construction period and the date it came into use. The tower of the Walfriduskerk leans further out of plumb than the Tower of Pisa. The graves of Walfridus and Radfridus in Bedum drew pilgrims from the surrounding area, who venerated the two martyrs.

The Goede Herderkerk, also known as the Noorderkerk, was built in 1937–1938 in the Groningen branch of the Amsterdam School. Its architectural form can be described through specific features: its floor plan is that of a Greek cross, and the tower stands on the southeast side. At the Regenboogschool, by contrast, the architectural focus is on a school building. It is the first school to be listed as a Rijksmonument and made earthquake-resistant. The building, which is more than 100 years old, is also known locally as the “Gangenschool”; its features include high ceilings, wide corridors, rectangular classrooms, wide doors and terrazzo floors.

A precise location is also given to help you find your way around town: the Bedum War Memorial stands at the corner of Schoolstraat and Grotestraat.

Waterways, Walking Routes and Nature

The 4-Mijl walking route is a circular trail of about 7.4 kilometres, starting and ending at the Scheve Toren. It follows the Boterdiep, crosses bridges and passes the skating rink and the Bedumerbos. Its approximate length and the fact that it starts and ends at the same place give you two practical points of reference when choosing a walk.

There is a gravel path along the Boterdiep Westzijde, associated with the nature-friendly design of the riverbank. Five public jetties invite you to fish or experience the water up close. The Bedumerbos also has paths specifically suitable for wheelchair users. The Bedumerbos is among the areas grouped under “Hogeland”.

At Vogelpunt Melkweg, birds search for food in a wetland formed by clay extraction. Local conditions and access may vary. If you would like to explore Bedum's older history beyond its buildings, the Dorpsgidsen Bedum offer guided walks through old Bedum. They share knowledge about the area's history, notable buildings and the people who have shaped the town.

Another activity is offered by Bloeiland in Bedum: creative flower workshops that make for a suitable day out. Check availability with the provider before you arrive. A full-day cycling trip through North Groningen also starts in Bedum; check the route details before setting off.

Getting to Bedum from Groningen

The train journey from Groningen to Bedum takes about 15 minutes. Check the latest rail information before travelling. This lets you plan your journey around the things that interest you in Bedum—such as church architecture, local history, paths along the water or one of the activities on offer.

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