Landgoed Clingendael

Landgoed Clingendael is one of the most beautiful country estates in the Netherlands, located just across the city border between The Hague and Wassenaar. This centuries-old estate offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its stunning gardens, historical buildings, and unique attractions.

History of Landgoed Clingendael

Clingendael has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when it was a country estate with a farm. Over the centuries, it evolved into a country house with gardens designed in the French style, featuring symmetrical patterns and many box hedges. In the 19th century, the Van Brienen family acquired the estate and commissioned garden architect Zocher to transform the garden into the English landscape style. This period saw the creation of the large pond, winding paths, islands, and lawns with groups of trees. The estate also features an Old Dutch Garden laid out in the early 20th century and inspired by 17th-century garden art. The Japanese Garden, designed by Marguerite M. Baroness van Brienen, is another highlight of the estate, showcasing its unique historical significance.

How to Get to Landgoed Clingendael

Landgoed Clingendael is easily accessible via public transport. You can take bus 20 from Den Haag Central (upper level) to reach the estate. Alternatively, you can approach the park via one of the streets Van Alkemadelaan or Wassenaarseweg and look for street parking. For those traveling by car, parking is not allowed within the estate, but you can park along the road nearby.

Attractions at Landgoed Clingendael

1. Japanese Garden: This is one of the main reasons to visit Clingendael. The Japanese Garden, designed by Marguerite M. Baroness van Brienen, features a tranquil pond, trickling brook, and twisting pathways. It is particularly beautiful during late spring and late autumn.
2. Old Dutch Garden: Inspired by 17th-century garden art, this garden is a must-see with its box hedges and flower beds.
3. Star Forest: A unique feature of the estate, the Star Forest offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
4. Snake Wall: One of the few remaining Dutch examples, the snake wall once served to grow peaches, apricots, and pears in the sheltered hollows.
5. Tea Room: The former lodge house now houses a tearoom, an ideal starting point for a walk or bike ride through the beautiful nature reserve. There is a children’s menu and play corner for kids, and water is available for dogs.
6. Playground De Gees: Located behind Huys Clingendael residence, this playground is perfect for children to enjoy climbing on the climbing fort and playing in the large playground.
7. Hiking Routes: Clingendael offers two walking routes of different distances, making it accessible for wheelchair users and prams. There is also an equestrian route through Clingendael’s dune forest.

Ticket Information

Landgoed Clingendael is freely accessible all year round. There is no entrance fee to visit the estate, but the Japanese Garden is open for only a few weeks a year (4 weeks twice a year during spring and autumn). Please refer to the website denhaag.nl/en/in-the-city/nature-and-environment/japanese-garden-in-clingendael-park.htm for more details on opening hours.

Tips for Visiting Landgoed Clingendael

1. Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening is the best time to visit Clingendael to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
2. Accessibility: Most paths are paved, making the estate very accessible for wheelchair users and prams.
3. Dogs: Dogs are welcome at Clingendael but must be kept on a leash. There are also some off-leash areas.
4. Wedding Photography: Wedding photographs are possible all year round at Clingendael Estate, but only during the Japanese Garden’s opening hours.
5. Parking: There is no parking at Clingendael Estate. You need to approach the park via one of the streets Van Alkemadelaan or Wassenaarseweg and look for street parking.
6. Public Transport: The Clingendael Estate is accessible by bus lines 18 and 23.