Naaldwijk: History, Culture and Walks

Naaldwijk offers several reasons to stay: architectural history at the Oude Kerk and the Heilige Geest Hofje, a historic circular walk and other routes, activities at Prinsenbos, as well as cultural attractions and shopping. If you are looking for a hotel in Naaldwijk, start by planning around the experiences you would like to enjoy. This will help you decide whether history, outdoor activities or a concert should shape your stay.

Oude Kerk and Heilige Geest Hofje

The Oude Kerk is considered one of the most important medieval churches in Zuid-Holland. Its oldest part is the Late Romanesque tower, built at the beginning of the 13th century. This dating gives the building's history a specific time reference; the tower is the oldest part of the church.

A painted panel depicting the Ten Commandments is also part of the Oude Kerk's history: Frederik Hendrik gave it to the church, and his coat of arms can be seen on the panel. The architecture and furnishings offer different points of interest if you are interested in the town's historical development.

Another historic landmark is the Heilige Geest Hofje. It was built from 1627 to 1636 on the orders of Frederik Hendrik, Prince of Orange and Lord of Naaldwijk. The west wing was built in 1627 to house ten older women.

Walks and Routes

The historic circular walk through Naaldwijk is 2 kilometres long, starts and ends at Wilhelminaplein, and passes the Heilige Geesthofje. The route therefore combines a specific distance with a named historic destination. As route details may change, check the information before setting out.

Relaxation by the Water and the History of Technology

Het Prinsenbos is a recreational area in Naaldwijk, situated by a body of water. You can walk, swim, fish and walk your dog there. The activities listed range from walking to spending time by the water; which ones you plan to do depends on what you would like to do during your visit.

The “Het Installatie museum” focuses on the plumbing trade: on display are tools, materials and numerous devices that plumbers have used, installed and maintained over the past 100 to 150 years. Another focus is on old processing techniques. Both the tools of the trade and the craft techniques are therefore central to the museum.

Culture, Getting There and Shopping

WestlandTheater De Naald is located in the centre of Naaldwijk and is easily accessible by public transport, bicycle, car and on foot. Under the title “Oude Kerk Klassiek,” the theatre, together with Stichting Vrienden van de Oude Kerk Naaldwijk and Westland Cultuurweb, organises several classical concerts at the Oude Kerk on Wilhelminaplein. If you are planning to attend a concert, check the latest dates before your visit.

Naaldwijk Winkelrijk offers more than 150 shops, as well as places to eat lunch and dinner. The retail and dining options change over time. If you want to visit a particular shop or restaurant, check what is currently available in advance.

Discover more destinations: 's-Gravenzande, Ter Heijde, De Lier, Poeldijk

For the broader travel overview: Westland.