Bathmen: Trails, History and Culture

Hiking trails, architectural history and cultural attractions give Bathmen a variety of highlights to consider when planning a trip. They are especially easy to explore along the Ommetje Schipbeekroute, at the Dorpskerk and at the Cultuurhuus.

Hiking Trails and Getting Around

Bathmen’s hiking trails are marked with the signage of the Salland hiking trail network. One specific option is the Ommetje Schipbeekroute, a 7.5-kilometre hiking trail. The distance gives you a useful reference point for planning; allow for a walking time that suits your pace and planned breaks.

The TOP Bathmen is at the corner of Brink, de Veldkamplaan and Gorsselseweg. From there, you can access cycling routes in the Salland cycling network as well as several hiking trails. This means both cycling and hiking options are available at the same point of reference. As signage and route availability may change, check the latest information before setting out.

Landscape and Local History

The characteristic esch fields in Bathmen’s landscape were created in the 8th century AD through the use of plaggen stalls. In the 14th century, the watercourse now known as the Schipbeek was made navigable so that agricultural produce could be transported more easily to Deventer. These two developments illustrate different aspects of the area’s history: agricultural land use on the one hand and the transport of produce by water on the other.

The monumental Dorpskerk in Bathmen has a building history dating back to around 1250. The choir and tower in their present form probably date from the 15th century. These dates refer to different aspects of the same building: its long history and the likely later form of its choir and tower. The church’s carillon plays automatically every quarter of an hour between 10:00 and 19:00. If you would like to time your visit to hear it, check the latest information beforehand.

The De Leeuw grain mill is also part of the town’s history: its origins date back to 1824, and it still grinds grain. The memorial sites take two different forms. The war memorial commemorates 18 residents who lost their lives in acts of war during the Second World War. In addition, 14 Struikelstenen, or stumbling stones, set into the pavement commemorate 14 victims of the Second World War.

Cultural Attractions and Activities

The Cultuurhuus Bathmen is a multifunctional cultural venue; the name BRAAKHEKKE remains on its façade. The large hall, the Heeren van Dorthzaal, serves as a full-fledged theatre space with professional lighting and sound equipment. The Cinebat film club shows films at Cultuurhuus Braakhekke every month. If you are planning to attend a screening, check the specific date and title beforehand.

At De Pothaar, groups of ten or more can book tours to meet the Lakenvelder herd. The price is €7.50 per person. Check the current terms before booking.

Discover more destinations: Deventer, Diepenveen, Schalkhaar.

Return to the main travel overview: Deventer.