Ruins of the house of former Prime Minister Dr. Colijn at Sorghvliet Park in The Hague

Catshuis

Catshuis Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites in The Hague

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Catshuis

Located in the heart of The Hague, the Catshuis is a landmark of Dutch political heritage and classic architecture. Built in 1651 as “Huis Sorghvliet” for the influential poet and statesman Jacob Cats, the mansion embodies the Dutch Golden Age’s classicist style. Over centuries, it transformed from a tranquil country estate into the official residence and working venue for the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, serving as a symbol of the nation’s political history and democratic values. While public access to the Catshuis itself is highly restricted due to its governmental role, visitors can still appreciate its historic façade and stroll through the adjacent, picturesque Park Sorghvliet. This guide outlines everything you need to know for planning a visit, including information on occasional public openings, ticketing policies for the park, accessibility tips, and recommendations for nearby attractions. Stay up to date on special events and openings by consulting official Dutch government and The Hague tourism sources (WorldAtlas; Den Haag Municipality; Dutch Government; Den Haag Tourism).

Farewell reception of W. Akse, the caretaker of Catshuis who worked there for 18 years, with notable attendees including Van Agt, Joop den Uyl, and Biesheuvel, black and white photo taken on April 5, 1982

Farewell reception of W. Akse, caretaker of Catshuis, with Dutch politicians including Van Agt, Den Uyl, Biesheuvel, De Jong, April 1982

Farewell reception of W. Akse, caretaker of Catshuis, shaking hands with Biesheuvel, 1982 black and white photo

Delegation of unemployed people speaking with members of the Dutch House of Representatives in front of the Catshuis, September 13, 1974

Delegation of unemployed people speaking with members of the Dutch Tweede Kamer near Catshuis in 1974

President Ahmadu Ahidjo of Cameroon with Minister Wiegel at the Catshuis in The Hague during state visit to the Netherlands in 1979

Chinese students from Dutch universities and colleges hosted by Premier Van Agt at Catshuis in The Hague on October 16, 1980

French Prime Minister Raymond Barre and Minister of Foreign Affairs Z. Ponchet visiting the garden of the Catshuis with Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt on March 18, 1980

French Premier Barre and Foreign Minister Z. Ponchet visiting the garden of the Catshuis on March 18, 1980

French Prime Minister Raymond Barre and Minister of Foreign Affairs Z. Ponchet visiting with Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt on March 18, 1980

Pope John Paul II and Prime Minister Ruud Lubbers at Catshuis during papal visit to the Netherlands in 1985

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in Holland with Dr. Gerard Schroder on March 2, 1964

German Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting the Catshuis in Holland with Dr. Gerard Schroder, black and white photo from March 2, 1964

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting the Catshuis in the Netherlands on March 2, 1964, with Dutch officials Schroder, Marijnen, and Luns

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in Holland with Dutch politicians on March 2, 1964

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in Holland with Dutch officials on March 2, 1964

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in the Netherlands in 1964 with Dutch officials Schroder, Marijnen, and Luns

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in Holland on March 2, 1964, with officials Schroder, Marijnen, and Luns

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting the Catshuis in Holland on March 2, 1964, with dignitaries including Schroder, Marijnen, and Luns

Bundeskanzler Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in The Hague, Netherlands with Gerhard Schröder, Victor Marijnen, and Joseph Luns

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in Holland with Dutch political figures in 1964

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in Holland with officials Marijnen, Schroder, and Luns on March 2, 1964

Chancellor Ludwig Erhard visiting Catshuis in the Netherlands, standing with Dutch officials Marijnen, Schroder, and Luns, black and white photo from 1964

CDA chairman Beekman presenting the first copy of the book 'Formatie 81' to Prime Minister Van Agt at the Catshuis

CDA chairman Beekman hands over the first copy of the book Formation 81 to Prime Minister Van Agt at the Catshuis

CDA chairman Beekman handing over the first copy of the book 'Formatie 81' to Prime Minister Van Agt at Catshuis, March 11, 1982

Engraving of Landgoed Sorgvliet, Jacob Cats' historic house in The Hague

The Catshuis official residence in The Hague, Netherlands

Ground floor plan of the Catshuis Zorgvliet House in The Hague Netherlands

Ajax football team in the garden of the Catshuis conversing with Prime Minister Barend Biesheuvel after winning the European Cup 1 final

Introduction to Catshuis
Historical Background and Architecture
Catshuis in Dutch Politics and Diplomacy
Visiting the Catshuis: What You Need to Know
Park Sorghvliet: Visitor Information
Political and Cultural Significance of Catshuis
Practical Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Key Tips
References

Historical Background and Architecture

Originally constructed in 1651, the Catshuis—then called “Huis Sorghvliet”—was designed by Jacob Cats as a serene country residence on the edge of the Haagse Bos forest. The mansion showcases the symmetry and understated elegance typical of 17th-century Dutch classicist architecture. Though the estate has been reduced in size by urban development, the house retains much of its historic character, including whitewashed facades and period features. Over time, practical renovations have preserved its architectural integrity while updating facilities for modern state functions (WorldAtlas).

Catshuis in Dutch Politics and Diplomacy

Since its acquisition by the Dutch government in the 20th century, Catshuis has played a central role in national governance. It officially became the Prime Minister’s residence in 1963, and while recent premiers have chosen to live elsewhere, Catshuis remains the venue for high-level cabinet meetings, coalition negotiations, and diplomatic receptions (WorldAtlas). The mansion has hosted critical political events, such as the extraordinary council of ministers meetings in June 2025 during pivotal government transitions (Alamy; Daily Maverick). The Catshuis’s ongoing use for state functions underscores its status as a living monument of Dutch democracy.

Visiting the Catshuis: What You Need to Know

Is the Catshuis open to the public?
Generally, Catshuis is not open for daily public visits due to its function as a government venue. However, the mansion occasionally opens its doors to the public during special events like National Open Monument Day or government-organized cultural programs. These dates are announced in advance via official channels (Den Haag Tourism).

Are there regular visiting hours or tickets?
There are no standard visiting hours or daily tickets for the Catshuis. When open to the public for special events, entry is typically free but may require advance registration due to limited capacity and security protocols.

How can you see the Catshuis?
While the interior is rarely accessible, the mansion’s exterior can be viewed from designated points in the adjacent Park Sorghvliet.

Security and Visitor Protocols
During special open days, expect strict security, including ID checks and bag inspections. Large bags and certain items are prohibited, and photography is often restricted inside the residence (Dutch Government).

Park Sorghvliet: Visitor Information

Description
Park Sorghvliet is a 25-hectare historic estate surrounding the Catshuis, offering lush walking paths, meadows, wooded areas, and tranquil gardens. The park preserves elements like the monumental 1920 garden wall and remnants of farmstead dikes.

Tickets and Visiting Hours
To protect the park’s sensitive ecosystem, annual admission cards are required for entry. Each card admits up to three people and is sold in limited numbers through locations such as The Hague Info Store, Boekhandel Scheveningen, and Paagman. These cards often sell out quickly, especially in spring (Denhaag.com Park Sorghvliet).

Park Rules

Remain on designated paths
Dogs must be leashed
Picnics only in specified areas
No littering
Quiet activities preferred; no large gatherings or organized sports

Accessibility
The park features mostly level paths but some sections may be challenging for wheelchair users due to natural terrain.

Political and Cultural Significance of Catshuis

Political Role

Catshuis is the seat for high-level policy discussions, cabinet meetings, and diplomatic events, reflecting the Netherlands’ consensus-driven “polder model” (Britannica). Its proximity to other institutions—such as the Binnenhof and Peace Palace—reinforces its importance within The Hague’s political landscape.

Cultural Heritage

Preserved by the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands, Catshuis is a prime example of Golden Age architecture and is included in national heritage preservation policy (DutchCulture). Occasionally, special cultural events and guided tours are held to foster public engagement (Cultural Policies; Government.nl).

Integration with The Hague

Catshuis forms part of a network of historic and diplomatic sites in The Hague, such as the Binnenhof, Noordeinde Palace, and the Hofvijver (Britannica).

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Getting There
Catshuis is located at Adriaan Goekooplaan 10, 2517 JX The Hague, easily accessible by public transport, bicycle, or car. The nearest tram stops are served by HTM trams, linking to Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS (AmsterdamTips; Den Haag Tourism).

Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities
During special events, ramps and accessible facilities are provided where possible. Contact event organizers or the Den Haag Info Store for details.

Travel Tips

Visit Sorghvliet park in spring or autumn for the best scenery.
Use public transport or bikes to support local sustainability.
Check official sites for up-to-date event and ticket information.

Nearby Attractions

Peace Palace: Home to the International Court of Justice (Denhaag.com).
Mauritshuis: Museum featuring Dutch masterpieces (AmsterdamTips).
Binnenhof: Historic parliamentary complex.
Noordeinde Palace: The King’s working palace.
Scheveningen Beach: Popular seaside destination.

The area around Catshuis also boasts cafes, restaurants, and shops, particularly in the Statenkwartier district.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I visit the Catshuis any day?
No, Catshuis is only open during announced special events or heritage days.

How do I get tickets for Catshuis or Park Sorghvliet?
Tickets for Catshuis are only available for special events via official websites. Park Sorghvliet access requires an annual card, sold at select locations in The Hague (Denhaag.com Park Sorghvliet).

Is Catshuis accessible for disabled visitors?
During public openings, accessibility is provided as much as possible. Some historic areas may have limitations.

Are guided tours available?
Guided tours inside Catshuis are rare and generally occur during special events. External guided city tours are available through private operators (Tour The Hague).

What are the nearest public transport options?
HTM trams and buses connect the area to Den Haag Centraal and other major stations.

Summary and Key Tips

Catshuis: Historic residence; interior access very limited, but exterior can be viewed from Park Sorghvliet.
Special Events: Check official channels for rare public openings.
Park Sorghvliet: Annual admission card required; offers scenic walks and glimpses of Catshuis.
Accessibility: Some accommodations for disabilities; confirm in advance.
Nearby Attractions: Binnenhof, Mauritshuis, Peace Palace, Scheveningen Beach.
Stay Informed: Use official government and tourism resources for updates (Dutch Government; Den Haag Tourism).
Enhance Your Visit: Download the Audiala app for guided tours and insider tips.