Gemeente Heemskerk
If you haven’t visited Heemskerk yet, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. This town on the North Holland coast combines nature, history and a lively atmosphere. Nestled between the bulb fields and the sea lies a village full of character, with plenty to see and do for a full day out or a relaxing weekend break.
The historic heart of Heemskerk beats at Slot Assumburg. This medieval castle, surrounded by water and lush greenery, is one of the most striking sights in the region and the perfect place to take a break during a stroll through the village. Walking and cycling routes start from the centre, taking you through the dunes, along the beach and across the polder. The Route Platform offers routes to suit every pace and distance.
The centre of Heemskerk has a surprisingly lively character. Local shops, eateries and terraces create a cosy atmosphere after a day out and about. Sample local produce, take time out for a cup of coffee, tea, lunch, a drink or dinner.
Heemskerk is not a busy tourist hub, and that is precisely what makes it so appealing. Here you can combine nature, culture and tranquillity without it feeling crowded or rushed. Plan your route via the Route Platform and discover for yourself what makes Heemskerk so special.
Discover castles, a castle garden, and beautiful nature on this 3.7 km green walk through Assumburg Park in Heemskerk. Ideal for young and old!
Explore Lake Uitgeest, the Stierop stream, Fort Marken-Binnen, and Fort Krommeniedijk during this beautiful canoe route through the greenery.
You are walking through the Heemskerk market garden area. Scattered throughout the area, you will find various stalls. Along the way, you can buy fresh flowers, potatoes, vegetables, fruit, herbs, and other seasonal products at one of the many stalls.
This route takes you back in time, through picturesque landscapes along water, past forts and meadows, over winding dikes and old bridges. In the past, the Oer-IJ flowed here, a branch of the Rhine that emptied into the sea at Castricum. When it was closed off, a large peat bog formed. To make the land suitable for arable farming and livestock breeding, ditches were dug and dikes were built.
This route is for canoeists seeking the tranquility of the polder, the shelter of reed beds, meadows with cows and sheep, and nesting birds. The canoe route is marked in green. Enjoy the exertion and relaxation of a day of paddling under your own power.
In the calendar, you’ll find events in Heemskerk, big and small. These include the four-day walking event, the horse-drawn carriage race, the cycling race, music festivals, greenhouse cross-country, dune festival, as well as activities such as exhibitions, flea and cultural markets, creative workshops, talks, films, theatre, concerts and more. There’s plenty to do in Heemskerk!
Overcast, 19.8°C
Wind speed: 13.8 knots / 25.5 km/h
Wind direction: NW
Heemskerk is a wonderful destination all year round. Spring brings the castle gardens into bloom, summer offers endless days on the beach, autumn turns the woods surrounding the estates golden, and winter brings a cosy atmosphere to the historic village centre.
