Top 20 Castles in North Brabant
Castles in North Brabant offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and diverse architecture. This Dutch province features a collection of historic strongholds, many surrounded by moats, forests, and heathlands. These sites are often integrated into natural landscapes, providing opportunities for walking and cycling. The area's castles showcase centuries of heritage, from medieval fortresses to stately homes.
Best castles in North Brabant
- The most popular castles is Heeswijk Castle, a castle that is a former moated castle dating…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Heeswijk Castle
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The castle can also be visited.
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Bouvigne Castle
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Nemerlaer Castle
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In this very beautiful area, there are many opportunities for …
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Croy Castle
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Heeze Castle
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Kasteel Maurick
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A large parking lot is also available directly at the castle.
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Tongelaar Castle
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Henkenshage Castle
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Helmond Castle
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Breda Castle
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Popular around North Brabant
From Flanders to the Ardennes — GR 5 in Belgium
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Pilgrim Trail (LAW 7-1) - Through idyllic villages and vast polders
Liberation Divide | Straight through North Brabant
Pilgrim's Way part 2 — s-Hertogenbosch to Maastricht
Naples to North Cape — Two friends, one purpose and many scoops of ice-cream
Zuiderwaterlinie – history, culture, cobbles & gravel
Maarten van Rossumpad – hiking from 's-Hertogenbosch to Steenwijk
LF Maasroute – From Maastricht to Rotterdam along the Meuse River
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Other adventures in North Brabant
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Nemerlaer Castle is situated on the edge of the Beerze stream valley, between Oisterwijk and Haaren. The castle is one of the oldest in North Brabant and was mentioned in historical sources as early as the 14th century. The name Nemerlaer supposedly refers to "no one's forest" or "no one's land," indicating that the area was once a free and undeveloped landscape. The original castle originated as a fortified house that served to protect the surrounding land and trade routes. Over the centuries, the building was expanded and modified several times. The current appearance of the castle, with its towers, moat, and surrounding park, is the result of various renovations, primarily in the 16th and 17th centuries. During the Eighty Years' War and subsequent conflicts, the castle was damaged but was repeatedly repaired. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the estate increasingly took on the character of a country estate with a park and avenues. Today, Nemerlaer Castle is a cultural and historical center that regularly hosts exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events. The estate surrounding the castle offers a peaceful walking area with mature trees, avenues, and views of the Beerze valley, bringing history and nature into close proximity.
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The castle is located on an island near the Dommel River and dates from around 1400, but is no longer in its original state. It was likely renovated between 1504 and 1509 by Jan Heyns, one of the architects of St. John's Cathedral in 's-Hertogenbosch.
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A magnificent castle in the heart of the city. A real eye-catcher. Definitely worth stopping for a few pictures. Terraces are not far away, making it an ideal place for a break.
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Construction of the present (moated) castle began around 1325. It served as a replacement for an older castle (known as 't Oude Huys), which stood a few hundred meters west of the present castle and from which the foundations of a stone keep and other objects were found during excavations in 1981.
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A beautiful Brabant castle in the heart of the Kampina nature reserve. Plus a cozy café, perfect for a snack or lunch break.
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Nemerlaer Castle is a 14th-century castle, located in Haaren, in the Dutch province of North Brabant. The castle is named after the river Amer and Laer. It was first mentioned in 1303, as the residence of knight Geerlinck van den Bossche. Source: Wikipedia
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Partners Klaas van Leengoed and Niek van Lieverloo joined forces in 2015 to breathe new life into Kasteel Maurick. Klaas had always seen the charm and possibilities that Kasteel Maurick has to offer. And Niek had been dreaming of his own restaurant for years. During their meeting, it became clear that they shared their admiration for this special location. In the autumn, they reopened the castle doors. From the á la carte restaurant “Hendrik van Maurick”, brasserie Catharina for a delicious lunch or cozy high tea to spaces for a beautiful party, a romantic wedding or a business meeting. At Kasteel Maurick, together with the entire team, we provide you with an unforgettable stay. Our core values? Quality, stylish, craftsmanship and passion: we radiate this in everything we do.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in North Brabant are particularly family-friendly?
Many castles in North Brabant offer activities for families. Heeswijk Castle, for example, features treasure hunts for children, and its surrounding estate is great for walks. Helmond Castle houses a museum with interactive exhibits and a 'Castle on Fire!' tour for kids. Slot Loevestein, a UNESCO site, also provides hands-on, interactive activities suitable for families.
Are there opportunities for walking and cycling around the castles in North Brabant?
Yes, many castles are set within beautiful natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities. The estate around Heeswijk Castle is an official Nature Gate with excellent walking and cycling paths. Nemerlaer Castle is located within a forest, offering numerous hiking opportunities, including routes in the Kampina nature reserve. Heeze Castle is nestled amidst extensive forests and heathlands, ideal for combining a visit with a walk or bike ride. You can find many routes in the region, such as those in the Hiking in North Brabant guide or Road Cycling Routes in North Brabant.
Which castles in North Brabant offer dining options or cafes?
Several castles provide excellent culinary experiences. Kasteel Maurick, uniquely situated on an island, features a restaurant and brasserie. Heeswijk Castle has a coach house, 'Bij de Barones in Het Koetshuis,' for coffee, lunch, or drinks. Henkenshage Castle also houses a restaurant. After exploring Nemerlaer Castle, you can comfortably stop off at its sunny terrace. Tongelaar Castle's courtyard is open for drinks on certain days, and Gemert Castle is being converted into a 5-star hotel with fine dining.
Can I stay overnight at any of the castles in North Brabant?
Yes, some castles offer unique accommodation experiences. Kasteel Maurick provides overnight stays in its suites. Croy Castle features a bed & breakfast in its gatehouse. Loon op Zand Castle offers luxury holiday homes on its estate for overnight stays, and Gemert Castle is currently being converted into a 5-star hotel with wellness facilities.
What kind of historical insights can I gain from visiting North Brabant castles?
North Brabant's castles offer a deep dive into centuries of history. Heeswijk Castle showcases nearly a thousand years of Brabant's elite history. Helmond Castle, one of the best-preserved moated castles, houses a museum with captivating castle stories. Slot Loevestein, a 14th-century fortress, is rich with tales of knights, strategic battles, and its past as an infamous state prison, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Are dogs allowed at the castles in North Brabant?
Policies vary by castle. For instance, while the estate around Heeswijk Castle is suitable for walks, dogs are generally not permitted inside the castle itself. It's always best to check the specific rules of each castle before your visit, especially regarding interior access.
Which castles are known for their picturesque appearance or unique settings?
Many castles in North Brabant are visually stunning. Dussen Castle, dating back to the 14th century, has a picturesque, storybook appearance. Kasteel Maurick is uniquely situated on an island on the River Dommel. Loon op Zand Castle, also known as the White Castle, is a historical manor with a moat near the Loon and Drunen Dunes. Henkenshage Castle is described as being 'as if from a picture book,' surrounded by a moat in a park-like landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in North Brabant?
The best time to visit North Brabant castles often depends on your preferences. Spring and summer (April to September) offer pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and surrounding nature, with gardens in full bloom and more outdoor events. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially around castles nestled in forests like Heeze Castle or Nemerlaer Castle. Some castles may have reduced opening hours or specific events during winter, so it's advisable to check individual castle websites for current schedules.
Are there any castles in North Brabant that are still inhabited?
Yes, Heeze Castle is notable as one of the last inhabited castles in the Netherlands. This national monument comprises two distinct parts: the medieval Eymerick Castle and a newer 17th-century castle, with its interior remarkable for its almost entirely authentic furniture and impressive collection of paintings.
Can I visit Breda Castle, and what makes it unique?
Breda Castle has a unique history as the former home of the influential House of Oranje-Nassau. Today, it houses the Royal Military Academy (KMA), meaning access is primarily through guided tours organized by the Breda Tourist Information Office. You can enjoy a magnificent view of the main building from Valkenberg Park, and the castle is part of the Zuiderwaterlinie footpath, connecting Brabant's fortified towns.
Which castles offer guided tours?
Several castles offer guided tours to enhance your visit. Heeze Castle provides guided tours on Wednesdays and Sundays. Guided tours can be booked for Dussen Castle, and Loon op Zand Castle also offers guided tours where visitors can explore its old ramparts, herb garden, kitchen garden, and orchard. Access to Breda Castle is primarily through guided tours organized by the Breda Tourist Information Office.
What natural features can I find near the castles in North Brabant?
The castles are often integrated into diverse natural landscapes. Dussen Castle is situated near the De Biesbosch National Park, offering opportunities to explore its natural beauty. Nemerlaer Castle is located within a forest, close to the Kampina nature reserve. Heeze Castle is surrounded by extensive forests and heathlands. Kasteel Maurick is hidden in nature on an island on the River Dommel. These settings provide excellent opportunities for enjoying nature alongside historical exploration.
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