Top 20 Castles around Herselt
Best castles around Herselt are found in a region characterized by its historical significance and natural landscapes, particularly near the Grote Nete river. The area features ancient defensive structures and noble residences, often surrounded by extensive parklands. These sites offer insights into medieval architecture and centuries of regional history. The blend of historical landmarks and scenic settings makes the area appealing for exploration.
Best castles around Herselt
- The most popular castles is Horst Castle, a castle that is an idyllic moated castle from the 13th century. It is surrounded by an impressive moat and located in the green valley of the Wingebeek.
- Another must-see spot is De Merode Castle, Westerlo, a historical site. This more than 600-year-old castle is still inhabited by the Princes de Merode and features a 60-hectare park with a pond.
- Visitors also love Ter Heyden Keep, a castle. This residential tower from the mid-fourteenth century is located in the Belgian town of Rotselaar and is known for its picturesque setting.
- Herselt is known for moated castles, historical sites, and residential towers. The region offers a variety of architectural styles and historical periods to explore.
- The castles around Herselt are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1200 upvotes and 465 photos shared.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Horst Castle
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De Merode Castle, Westerlo
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The Kasteel de Merode is more than 600 years old and still inhabited by the Princes de Merode. The current resident of the castle is the young Simon de Merode. There are annual castle parties and events that attract a huge crowd.
Westerlo is not called "The pearl of the Kempen" for nothing.
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Ter Heyden Keep
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Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall)
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Jeanne de Merode Castle
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Tips from the Community
Over the years, the castle was modernized and updated. This included the tower, whose heavy line of the fortified wall was broken by irregular window and door arrangements. The castle still houses remarkable works of art. The neo-Gothic armory houses a cast-iron stove from 1539 and two marble Renaissance mantelpieces. The castle also contains important paintings, tapestries, gold leather wallpaper, and furniture in a variety of styles. (Municipality of Westerlo)
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The castle, built between 1909 and 1911 and designed by P. Langerock, was occupied by the Germans during World War II and later became a retirement home for priests. Since 1973, it has served as a town hall with a surrounding municipal park between Boerenkrijglaan, Hollandse dreef, and Merodedreef. The surrounding park features a neo-traditional gatehouse (number 63) and a gardener's house (Hollandse dreef numbers 1-3); and also includes a former sheepfold and pump house. The park surrounding the castle was transformed into an ornamental garden after World War I by the then gardener, F. Verrezen. In front of the castle: a fountain, dating from 1995 and designed by Architektuur Atelier BVBA. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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If a town hall can really be beautiful...
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The core of Horst Castle probably dates back to the 13th century and is characterised by a square keep. The keep probably belonged to the oldest core that was further expanded into a fortified castle in the 15th century. During the troubles under Maximilian of Austria in 1489, the castle of Horst was taken by the people of Leuven and set on fire. According to literary sources, only the keep, part of the entrance gate and a defensive wall remained standing. The residential and east wing were renovated and expanded in the 16th century. The round tower also dates from this period. The outer wall was provided with a rectangular bay window. The castle lost its military character and became more of a pleasant residential area with a view of the moat, the ponds and the inner courtyard. Brick construction with sandstone layers characterise these buildings. In 1587, however, the castle was set on fire again during the raids of the Geuzen. It was not until the beginning of the 17th century that restoration work began. It is difficult to deduce from the available sources to what extent this involved restoration or an embellishing conversion of the castle complex. Presumably nothing changed in the internal structure, but only after the structurally necessary repairs were the interiors completely refinished. Maria-Anna Van den Tympel had a new chapel built against the keep in the 17th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, the complex must have been damaged by plundering and neglect, and it is possible that it also suffered from plundering during the Brabant Revolution of 1830. Around 1850, the castle must have been habitable again, but the castle buildings only served as a farm. In the land registry, the site around the castle is called "De Notelaren Boomgaerd". Around that time, the most dilapidated part must have been demolished, namely the southern part and the superstructure of the gate. The rest of the complex was probably restored with reused demolition material and in traditional style. The castle was divided in 1880, with one part being registered as a school house. In 1897, a further division followed, with two plots being designated as houses. Several restoration campaigns followed in the 20th century. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Horst Castle, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/43619
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Since December, there has been a spire on the castle again after the unstable spire was removed more than four years ago and could be viewed on a wooden platform in the pond. Now it is back. And the other works are also progressing quickly. More about the replaced spire on https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/12/10/torenspits-staat-weer-op-kasteel-van-horst-holsbeek/
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The Donjon Ter Heyden, also known as the tower of Ter Heyden, is a residential tower in the Belgian town of Rotselaar (province of Flemish Brabant) from the mid-fourteenth century. The donjon was built between 1350 and 1363 by order of Gerard van der Heyden, the then bailiff of the Duchy of Brabant, when he acquired the status and funds through a marriage with a noblewoman to erect a building of such calibre.
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The castle of Jeanne de Merode serves as a town hall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles near Herselt offer a glimpse into medieval history?
For medieval history, Horst Castle is an excellent choice, with its 13th-century origins and characteristic square keep from the 15th century. De Merode Castle, Westerlo also boasts ancient origins, with its oldest defensive tower dating back to the 13th or 14th century. Additionally, Ter Heyden Keep is a notable residential tower from the mid-fourteenth century.
Are there any castles around Herselt that are still inhabited by noble families?
Yes, De Merode Castle, Westerlo is a more than 600-year-old castle that is still inhabited by the Princes de Merode. While it remains a private residence, parts of the castle and its grounds are occasionally opened for cultural events.
What kind of natural surroundings can I expect at the castles near Herselt?
Many castles in the region are set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Horst Castle is an idyllic moated castle located in the green valley of the Wingebeek. De Merode Castle, Westerlo is surrounded by an English landscape park spanning 12 hectares with ponds, and an even larger formal park across the Grote Nete river.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Herselt?
Yes, several castles are considered family-friendly. Horst Castle, De Merode Castle, Westerlo, Ter Heyden Keep, and Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall) are all categorized as family-friendly, offering engaging experiences for all ages.
What are the access limitations for visiting De Merode Castle in Westerlo?
De Merode Castle, Westerlo is a private residence. While its exterior and surrounding park are accessible via Herselt's walking and cycling routes, interior access is generally restricted. Opportunities to visit specific parts of the castle, such as the entrance hall and knight's hall, are usually limited to annual events like the 'Kasteelfeesten' in early July.
Can I bring my dog to the castle grounds around Herselt?
At Horst Castle, dogs are allowed on the castle grounds, but not inside the castle itself. For other castles, it's advisable to check specific regulations before your visit.
Are there any castles that also serve as public buildings?
Yes, the Jeanne de Merode Castle in Westerlo, also known as the 'new castle', has served as Westerlo's town hall since 1973. It was originally built between 1909 and 1911 by order of Jeanne de Merode.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in the Herselt area?
The region around Herselt offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Summit of the Balenberg โ Kempen-Hageland Route' or the 'Meandering Grote Nete' loop. There are also touring bicycle routes like the 'Hogewegmolen โ Tongerlo Abbey' loop, and running trails, including the 'De Merode Castle, Westerlo โ Meanders of the Grote Nete River' loop. For more details on these routes, visit the Road Cycling Routes around Herselt, Cycling around Herselt, and Running Trails around Herselt guides.
What do visitors particularly appreciate about the castles in this region?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and picturesque settings. Many enjoy the romantic medieval appearance of castles like Horst Castle, especially its moated location. The extensive parklands and the rich history of noble families, such as the de Merode family, also draw significant interest.
Is there a castle near Herselt with a visitor center or a place to eat?
Yes, at Horst Castle, the Brasserie Wagenhuis is located on the premises, offering an ideal spot for a stop and a meal. It also houses a visitor center and heritage shop.
What is the best time of year to visit castles near Herselt?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and surrounding parks. During these seasons, the natural landscapes are vibrant, and there may be more opportunities for special events or public access to private castles like De Merode Castle, Westerlo.
Are there any castles around Herselt that are wheelchair accessible?
Horst Castle is listed as wheelchair accessible, though some tips suggest it can be difficult to access for wheelchair users and buggies inside the castle itself. The grounds are generally more accessible. For other locations, it's best to check specific accessibility details beforehand.
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