Top 20 Castles around Leuven
Best castles around Leuven are situated in a region known for its historical significance and varied landscapes, from urban settings to green valleys. The area features a mix of medieval fortifications and Renaissance châteaux, reflecting centuries of architectural evolution. These structures are often integrated into parks or natural surroundings, offering opportunities for exploration. The region's history as part of the Duchy of Brabant has left a legacy of defensive and noble residences.
Best castles around Leuven
- The most popular castles is Horst Castle, a moated castle from the 13th century. It is surrounded by an impressive moat and is known as the home of the comic book character De Rode Ridder.
- Another must-see spot is Ter Heyden Keep, a residential tower from the mid-fourteenth century. This tower is located in the middle of an artificial lake, offering a distinctive view.
- Visitors also love Schiplaken Castle, an old medieval castle site. The 18th-century neoclassical castle was rebuilt in its original style after being set on fire in 1914.
- Leuven is known for its moated castles, medieval keeps, and Renaissance châteaux. Visitors can explore a variety of historical sites, from defensive structures to noble residences.
- The castles around Leuven are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1200 upvotes and over 460 photos shared across 47 highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Horst Castle
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Castle Pond, Tervuren Park
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By an imperial decree of Joseph II , the ducal castle was demolished in 1782. The then governor, Maria Christina of Austria, will, however, have a new castle built in Laeken. The impetus for the construction of the current park came with the World Exhibition of 1897, in which the colonial section took place in Tervuren. In 1895, Avenue de Tervueren was built to connect the park with Brussels. In the Warande Congolese villages were constructed and populated with Congolese during the World Exhibition. Leopold II had the Africa Palace built as an exhibition space on the ruins of the pavilion that burned down in 1879. Due to limited capacity, the construction of a new Colonial Museum, now known as the Royal Museum for Central Africa, started in 1905.[1] In 1911 it was inaugurated by the new king, Albert I. A year later, the entire domain was transferred as a public park to the then services of Waters en Bossen.
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Ter Heyden Keep
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Ter Heiden Tower
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In 1619, the noble family from Eynatten acquired ownership of this site. She rebuilt the tower according to the original plans, with the exception of the wall walkway, which was replaced by a roof with a pear turret. In 1631, de Eynatten built the beautiful country house in Flemish Renaissance style.
In 1870 the complex was expanded to brew beer. Brewing has been carried out since 1870 by the Smedts family, who acquired ownership of this site in 1909. They stopped their activities in Rotselaar in 1938 and continued brewing in Kampenhout until 1993. The beautiful brick chimney is a silent witness to this.
The complex has been protected as a monument since 1942 with a thorough restoration of the tower in 1948. Today the entire property is in the hands of a private owner.
(donjonterheyden.be)
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Schiplaken Castle
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source: Hiking guide - Flanders route GR 128
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Arenberg Castle
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This green area on the outskirts of Leuven now belongs to KU Leuven and is the campus for Science and Technology.
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Kwabeek Castle and Park
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Sint-Hubertus Chapel
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(Wikipedia)
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Fort Leopold
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Leefdaal Castle
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Leefdaal Castle, also "de Liedekerke", is a Renaissance castle, with late medieval remains, in Leefdaal in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant...
The origins can be found in the manor "Leven Dale", mentioned in the 12th century.
This glory passes to important generations, first to the house of Merode and then to the count's family of De Brouchoven; In 1775 the De Liedekerke family acquired the castle. Honoré Count de Liedekerke (1781-1861) had the ponds constructed and François Count de Liedekerke (1919-2014) had the facades carefully restored.
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Tips from the Community
After the gruesome murder of the last owner, Baroness Thérèse Ernst de Bunswyck, the municipality purchased part of the estate, including the castle, which now serves as Boutersem's town hall. Other lots went to different owners, so the heritage's unity is somewhat lost, with several buildings besides the castle itself. However, there's much more than meets the eye.
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The castle's core dates back to 1718, modified several times during the 19th century, and eclectically renovated after 1922; the castle and its outbuildings are surrounded by a 16.5-hectare park, originally a high courtyard with a watermill and mill pond; a classic 18th-century valley floor site, redeveloped in an early landscape style around 1830-1835; redeveloped around 1900 in a late landscape style; municipally owned since 1980; ice and vegetable cellars, numerous old trees. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Kwabeek Castle Estate, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/41588
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A beautiful place for rest and walking: you can stroll along it, enjoy the greenery and water, and it is part of the historical and natural charm of Tervuren.
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Schiplaken Castle is an old medieval castle site with a characteristic high court and farmyard. The 18th-century neoclassical castle was set on fire by the Germans in 1914 and was rebuilt in its original style after the war. An information board on site explains the destruction during WWI in 1914. Intrigued? Learn more by visiting https://onroerenderfgoed.github.io/la2001/ankerplaatsen/a20009.html
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The veneration of Saint Hubert in Tervuren, the presumed place of death of the patron saint of hunters, dates back to at least the 16th century and is probably even older. Every year on the last Sunday in October, an open-air mass is celebrated there in honor of Saint Hubert, and horses and dogs are blessed to protect them from running amok.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Leuven?
The region around Leuven offers a diverse range of historical structures, including impressive moated castles like Horst Castle, medieval keeps such as Ter Heyden Keep, and Renaissance châteaux like Arenberg Castle. You can also find sites like Schiplaken Castle, which was rebuilt in its original style after being damaged.
Which castles near Leuven offer a particularly authentic historical experience?
Horst Castle is renowned for its authenticity, having remained largely untouched and unrenovated since the 17th century. It retains a genuine medieval feel with its square keep, traditional brick and sandstone wings, and wide moat.
Can I visit Arenberg Castle, and what makes it unique?
Arenberg Castle, located within Leuven, is unique for its integration into KU Leuven's academic life, housing the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. While the interior is generally reserved for university use, visitors can admire its stunning Renaissance and Neo-Gothic architecture from the outside and enjoy the beautiful surrounding Arenberg Park.
Are there family-friendly castles or areas suitable for children around Leuven?
Yes, several castles and their surrounding areas are marked as family-friendly. Horst Castle and its park are popular, and the castle is famously known as the fictional home of the Flemish comic book hero 'De Rode Ridder'. Arenberg Castle's park also offers a pleasant environment for family strolls.
What natural features or viewpoints can I find near the castles?
Many castles are set within scenic natural surroundings. Horst Castle is nestled in the green valley of the Wingebeek with a large pond and moat. Ter Heyden Keep is distinctively located in the middle of an artificial lake. Arenberg Castle is surrounded by the extensive Arenberg Park, offering peaceful walks and views.
Are there hiking or cycling trails near the castles around Leuven?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities. For instance, the Dijlepad – Arenberg Castle Park loop is a moderate running route near Arenberg Castle. Cyclists can explore the Horstroute, a moderate cycling route that passes by Horst Castle. You can find more options in the running, mountain hiking, and cycling guides for Leuven.
What is the current status of Horst Castle, and can I still visit?
Horst Castle is currently undergoing major restoration. However, the castle park and the brasserie 'Het Wagenhuys' (located in the coach house) remain open. Visitors can often still explore the grounds and appreciate its historical significance even during the restoration period. For more details, you can check castles.nl.
Are there any castles near Leuven that are less crowded but still offer historical interest?
While popular sites like Horst Castle attract many, exploring places like Ter Heyden Keep or Kwabeek Castle and Park might offer a quieter experience. These sites still provide significant historical context and unique architectural features.
What are the public transport options to reach castles near Leuven?
Public transport options vary by castle. Arenberg Castle is easily accessible within Leuven. For castles further afield like Horst Castle, located near Sint-Pieters-Rode, local bus services often connect from Leuven. It's advisable to check specific routes and schedules for your chosen destination.
Are dogs allowed at the castles or in their surrounding parks?
Policies vary by location. At Horst Castle, dogs are generally allowed on the castle grounds but not inside the castle itself. For other locations like Arenberg Park, dogs are typically welcome on leashes. Always check local signage or official websites for specific rules before visiting.
Are there cafes or pubs near the castles for refreshments?
Yes, many castle locations offer nearby amenities. For example, the Brasserie Wagenhuis is located in the coach house at Horst Castle, offering a cozy regional inn. Near Arenberg Castle, you'll find various cafes and eateries within the university area and Heverlee.
What is the significance of the Arenberg Watermill near Arenberg Castle?
Just a short walk from Arenberg Castle, the Arenberg Watermill is a remarkable medieval relic. Dating back to before 1286, it is considered the oldest existing watermill in Europe, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's historical industrial heritage.
Is there a castle near Leuven that is still privately owned and inhabited?
While not directly in Leuven, Castle de Merode in Westerlo (Antwerp province) is a notable example. It has been home to the House of Merode for over five centuries and is still privately owned and inhabited. It can only be visited on certain cultural occasions.
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