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!
Walk in Assumburg Park
A walk through centuries-old parks, past a medieval castle, and through a unique castle garden — that is the green route through Park Assumburg in Heemskerk. In barely four kilometers, you can experience the rich history and tranquil nature of this hidden gem of North Holland.
About the route
You start at the starting point of Park Assumburg and follow the green signs through the park. Almost immediately, you see Assumburg Castle looming amidst the greenery: an imposing 13th-century castle rooted in the hamlet of Assum, situated between Heemskerk and Uitgeest. You walk along winding ditches and through avenues lined with old trees. It smells of damp earth and leaves.
Behind the castle, you will find the Assumburg Castle Garden : a beautiful Baroque garden in the classical French style, laid out on the same spot as 300 years ago. You pass the rose garden, the vegetable and herb garden, and the orchard. In summer, the air here smells of roses and herbs. Butterflies flutter from flower to flower and bees hum softly. Along the way, you can see how the biodiversity trail lends nature a helping hand.
Afterwards, you continue walking through the green park, past open grassy fields and through wooded areas. You hear birds singing and the gentle rustling of the wind through the rows of trees. The route is clearly signposted and easy to walk.
After walking for about 45 minutes, you close the circle back at the starting point. After the walk, take some time for a cup of coffee or tea in the Koetshuijs , the park's cozy meeting point.
Highlights along the way
- Assumburg Castle – A 13th-century castle with a rich noble history, now used as a Stayokay hostel. Stay like a squire or lady!
- Assumburg Castle Garden – A unique Baroque garden in classic French style, free to enter. In summer, the rose garden is in full bloom.
- Vegetable and herb garden & orchard – Discover the diverse plant species and smell the scent of fresh herbs and blossoms.
- Biodiversity Trail – An educational trail that shows how insects, plants, and animals coexist in the park.
- The Coach House – The park's meeting point, with coffee, tea, and information about the garden, the castle, and the surrounding area.
Background story
Park Assumburg owes its name to Assumburg Castle, which in turn is named after the medieval hamlet of Assum. The 13th-century castle was inhabited by noble families for centuries. The castle garden behind it is a remarkable piece of history: a beautifully landscaped Baroque garden still stands in exactly the same spot as 300 years ago. The Municipality of Heemskerk manages the park, while enthusiastic volunteers carefully maintain the castle garden. Those who look closely will see traces of this rich past everywhere.
Tips and practical information
- Distance: 3.7 km
- Starting point: Starting point Park Assumburg, Heemskerk
- Signage: Green markings along the route
- Dogs: Not allowed in the Castle Garden. The general rules apply in the park.
- Accessibility: The Castle Garden is wheelchair-friendly. The orchard has somewhat limited accessibility. Bicycles are not allowed in the garden.
- Route map: A paper version of the walk can be picked up at the Coach House of Assumburg Castle Garden.
- Accessibility by public transport: Heemskerk has an NS train station with good connections from Haarlem and Alkmaar, among others. From Heemskerk station, the park is within walking distance or accessible by bus. Leave the car at home and hop on the train!
- Koetshuijs opening hours: April 13:00–16:00 | May to October 11:00–17:00 | November to March Sat & Sun 13:00–16:00. Always closed on Mondays.
- Castle Garden opening hours: May to September daily 9:00–20:00 | October to April daily 9:00–18:00. Admission free.
This route combines a rich castle and garden history with beautiful green surroundings. Perfect for those who want to combine nature and culture.
