Top 5 Castles around Schagen
Best castles around Schagen offer a blend of historical sites and reconstructed structures in the West Frisian landscape. The region, known for its agricultural character and proximity to the coast, features historical points of interest that reflect centuries of Dutch history. While the original medieval structures may have undergone significant changes, their sites provide insight into the area's past. Visitors can explore these locations, which often incorporate original elements or stand on historically significant grounds.
Best castles around Schagen
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Last updated: April 28, 2026
Grote Kerk Schagen
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Observation Tower and Ruins of 't Huys te Nuwendore
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Schagen Castle
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Entrance to Ruine van Nuwendoorn
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Thuys te Nuwendore
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Tips from the Community
Unfortunately, you can only climb halfway up the observation tower, as a locked door blocks the way. The castle ruins are very small, but they are pretty.
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Unfortunately, you can only climb halfway up the observation tower, as a locked door blocks the way. The castle ruins are very small, but they are pretty.
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On the sharp bend in the dike, a high, newly built tower rises from the West Frisian landscape. This is exactly where the fort 't Huys in Nuwendore (Nieuwendoorn) stood in the 13th century. The province of North Holland has rebuilt part of the castle. Visitors can view the location and climb the tower, where they can imagine themselves as lord of the castle with a beautiful view of the landscape.
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A great tower and a great view
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Great old 🏰 ruin. Unfortunately the viewpoint was closed so that we could still see the landscape around it in the distance. Still a highlight 👍
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A high, newly built tower rises from the West Frisian landscape on the sharp bend of the dike. In the 13th century, the fort 't Huys in Nuwendore (Nieuwendoorn) stood on this exact spot. The province of North Holland has rebuilt part of the castle. Visitors can tour the site and climb the tower, where they can imagine themselves as lord of the castle with a beautiful view over the landscape.
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Schagen Castle is located in the heart of the town and, based on its original layout, is a typical square moated castle. Only a few remnants of the former fortifications remain. The old moat, which almost completely encircles the complex and still holds water, is still clearly visible. Access is via a wooden bridge, designed to resemble a drawbridge with the help of some decorative elements. Behind it lies the former castle courtyard, offering unobstructed views in all directions, including the moat and the hotel. Next to the former entrance and the current bridge are two round defensive towers, whose foundations are still original. Inside the towers are exhibition rooms dedicated to the First and Second World Wars. A hotel has been built in the rear of the square complex. In an attempt to recreate the former part of the castle with two three-story, tower-like additions, both covered with sheet metal roofs, the architect has created a building that only blends in with the surrounding stone in terms of color. Unfortunately, most of the complex is closed to the general public. The castle was probably built in 1394 by Willem, a bastard son of Abelrecht van Beieren. Lord Willem expanded and enlarged the castle in 1440. The fortification remained in the family's possession until 1568. In 1758, it was purchased by George van Cats. Until 1798, it changed hands several times through sales, and in 1799 it suffered severe damage at the hands of soldiers. In 1820, the castle was auctioned off and demolished. The area surrounding the castle was used as a prison and cemetery over the centuries. The towers were first renovated in 1931. The hotel was built in 2001/2002. https://burgenarchiv.de/burg_schagen_in_noord-holland
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of castles can I expect to see around Schagen?
The Schagen region offers a mix of historical sites, castle ruins, and reconstructed structures. While many original medieval castles no longer stand in their entirety, you can explore locations that incorporate original elements or are built on historically significant grounds. For example, Schagen Castle features two remaining original corner towers, and the site of 't Huys te Nuwendore has a rebuilt observation tower.
Are there any castles with observation towers or good viewpoints?
Yes, the Observation Tower and Ruins of 't Huys te Nuwendore is a prominent site where you can climb a newly built tower. From the top, you can enjoy extensive views over the West Frisian landscape, imagining yourself as a lord of the castle.
What is the history behind Schagen Castle?
Schagen Castle was originally founded around 1394 by Willem, an illegitimate son of Duke Albrecht. It was largely demolished after 1820, with only two round corner towers remaining. Today, a modern hotel has been constructed on the site, incorporating these historical towers, blending its past with contemporary use.
Are there family-friendly castle sites in the Schagen area?
Many of the castle sites around Schagen are considered family-friendly. For instance, both Schagen Castle and the Ruine van Nuwendoorn are suitable for family visits. Climbing the observation tower at Nuwendoorn can be an engaging activity for children.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Schagen?
The region around Schagen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, gravel biking trails, and running trails. For example, you can explore routes like the 'Barsingerhorn – Amstelmeerdijk loop' for road cycling or the 'North Sea Coast and Schagen Loop' for gravel biking. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Schagen or Gravel biking around Schagen guides for more details.
Are there any historical sites besides castles in Schagen?
Yes, in the center of Schagen, you can visit the Grote Kerk Schagen. This Reformed church, with its prominent tower, is a Neo-Renaissance design completed in 1897 and stands in the middle of the market square, surrounded by beautiful old houses.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castle sites in Schagen?
Visitors often appreciate the blend of history and the opportunity for scenic views. Climbing the observation tower at 't Huys te Nuwendore is frequently highlighted for its panoramic vistas. The historical context of sites like Schagen Castle, even with its modern reconstruction, also draws interest.
Can I find accommodation near the castle sites?
Yes, the reconstructed Schagen Castle itself functions as a hotel and event location, offering stylish accommodation directly on a historical site. The town of Schagen also provides various other accommodation options.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Schagen?
While the castles can be visited year-round, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor sites and climbing towers for views. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, especially around the more natural settings of the ruins.
Are there any easy walking routes around the castles?
The castle ruins of Nuwendoorn are relatively small, offering a pleasant and easy visit around the site. For longer walks, you can combine a visit with nearby running trails, such as the 'Mariakapel De Keins loop' from Schagen, which offers moderate difficulty. You can find more options in the Running Trails around Schagen guide.
Is it possible to visit the original parts of Slot Schagen?
While the original medieval structure of Slot Schagen (now Schagen Castle) was largely demolished, its modern reincarnation incorporates the two surviving historical corner towers. These towers are visible and form an integral part of the current hotel and event venue, allowing visitors to experience a sense of the past.
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