Leidschendam: Locks, Churches and Local History

Explore Leidschendam through its architectural and local history: the lock complex, Dorpskerk, Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, and De Salamander sawmill each represent different aspects of the townscape and its history. A historic walking route explains the buildings and their former residents; quiz questions, a small zoo with tropical butterflies, and the nearby Vlietland recreation area add further highlights.

Locks, Churches and the Townscape

The lock complex in Leidschendam dates from 1886 to 1888. It is a well-preserved and complete example of a 19th-century lock complex with a double lock chamber. Its construction date and design provide two concrete points of reference for placing the structure in its historical context.

The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul is a prominent feature of the townscape beside the lock. In cultural and historical terms, it is a representative example of the revival of Catholic church building in the Neo-Gothic style after the restoration of the episcopal hierarchy in 1853. It points to a different historical context than the lock complex: here, the focus is on sacred architecture and its significance for Catholic church building.

Dorpskerk, also known as De Peperbus, is the oldest church in Leidschendam and was first put into use in 1653. It is still in use; activities are held there during the week, and everyone is welcome. De Salamander sawmill adds another striking feature: it has a major influence on the appearance of the old center near the Vliet canal.

Buildings Along a Walking and Cycling Route

The BeleefRoute in the center of Leidschendam is a historic walk past historic buildings in the area around the lock district. The route stops at commercial buildings and distinctive houses, explaining the history of the buildings and their former residents. In this way, the walk connects the buildings with the stories of the people associated with them.

The BeleefRoute is available through the “BeleefRoutes” app. It includes quiz questions at various points, which children can solve with their parents if they wish. If you are traveling with children, you can factor the questions along the route into your plans, alongside the information about the buildings.

A description of the Vlietzone cycling route, published in 2015, follows Delftsekade past the Peperbus toward junctions 77 and 75. Unlike the historic walking route, this focuses on a cycling route and its stated direction. The Peperbus is a landmark in the route description.

More Ideas for Planning Your Trip

The Vlietland recreation area is close to Leidschendam, halfway between Leidschendam and Leiden and between the Vliet and the A4. These specific geographical reference points help locate the area and make it another nearby option to consider when planning your trip.

Another highlight is Vlinders aan de Vliet, a small zoo with at least 1,500 tropical butterflies. It offers a wildlife attraction alongside the architecture and local history. Annual events in the center of Leidschendam provide another reason to check your planned travel dates. If an event date is important to your trip, check the specific event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Voorburg.

Return to the main travel overview: Leidschendam-Voorburg.