Review: first year at Slangenburg Castle

November 26, 2024

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At the beginning of 2024, we opened Slangenburg Castle to the public. What started with a limited opening has quickly grown into a versatile range of activities, tours and even overnight accommodation. The castle has undergone a true transformation in the past year.

In about 9 months we set up a knowledgeable and enthusiastic on-site team. Together with colleagues from Slangenburg Castle, we look back. Emma Buis, general manager, looks back on a great first year: "We have really already achieved a lot together. Slangenburg is a monument of and for the people of Doetinchem. Whoever wants to, can contribute. For example, we are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers, for example for tours or the construction of a historic vegetable garden."

Catering and overnight stays

In March 2024, the Coach House opened its doors. Visitors enjoy the garden with orchard behind the café when the weather is nice, where we created a terrace in the summer. Children can now also do a scavenger hunt here. Emma: "The garden is my favorite spot: an oasis of peace where you only hear the birds. Besides, you have a beautiful view of the castle here."

The former horse stable, next to the Koetshuis, can now also be used by visitors – as a location for parties and celebrations. We have already organised various events there for the municipality and local entrepreneurs. In addition to hosting events, the castle now also organises its own activities here, such as a game tasting and a Christmas event.

Across from the Koetshuis we have realised three Kasteelhuisjes. The historic houses have been converted into lovely places to stay. These houses were originally the horse stables. Guests enjoy a comfortable stay in the middle of nature, with an unobstructed view of the castle. In recent months we have collaborated with influencers to increase the name recognition of the Kasteelhuisjes. They shared their experiences with a wide audience. We hope to welcome more guests next year!

Restoration and research

Before the castle could open to the public, various restorations and maintenance work were necessary. For example, the bridges in front of the castle were restored, an essential step to safely receive visitors. In addition, intensive work was done on pest control, especially against cluster flies.

We initiated several research projects to fully map the building history in order to properly carry out the restoration. Building archaeologist Jeroen van der Werf examined the structures of the castle and its outbuildings. Two 'Researchers in Residence' studied the layout of the castle and the building materials. Their findings are currently being incorporated into a 3D model.

A lot of attention has also been paid to the interior. Thanks to our collaboration with the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands, we have been able to keep special, original pieces of furniture in the castle. This year, employees and volunteers followed training courses on collection management and conservation, provided by Collection Care Solutions. This helps us to keep the historical furniture and art objects in optimal condition, especially in view of the growing number of visitors.

Tours and extensions

And those numbers are growing considerably! Guides and volunteers provide tours of the castle and we receive many enthusiastic responses.

Agnes de Rijke, Marketing & Communications Officer, says, "We had a fantastic first summer, with nearly 1,000 visitors per month at its peak. Now we are evaluating and improving. Visitors are also helping with this, by completing a survey. In it, all kinds of great suggestions come up, such as using historical music, a program for children and multilingual guided tours."

The team uses the feedback to further enrich the experience and expand the castle's story. For example, in late 2024 we added part of the first floor to the tour, including the former library and the richly decorated Chambre (Alcove Room).

What will 2025 bring?

The tour will be even richer in content – also in the new year. Restoration work will also continue next year. Furthermore, more rental options will be added. For example, you can organize meetings and gatherings in the castle or in the horse stables. The unique location and historical meeting rooms offer an inspiring environment for this.