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Surrender of Samuel Story's Dutch Texel squadron to British-Russian fleet under Andrew Mitchell on August 30, 1799 in the Vlieter

Netherlands Institute For Military History

The Hague, Netherlands

Guide to Visiting the Netherlands Institute for Military History (NIMH), The Hague: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: The Significance of NIMH and What to Expect

The Netherlands Institute for Military History (Nederlands Instituut voor Militaire Historie, NIMH), located in The Hague, is the principal center for the preservation, research, and public engagement with Dutch military heritage. Established in 2005 through the merger of various military historical branches, the NIMH brings together expertise and extensive archival collections that chronicle Dutch military history from the Eighty Years’ War to modern peacekeeping operations. Functioning under the Ministry of Defence and as part of the Netherlands Defence Academy, the NIMH supports research, education, and policy advisory roles while ensuring public access to its resources. Visitors benefit from free admission to exhibitions, access to archives, guided tours, and a location amidst The Hague’s rich tapestry of historical and cultural sites. This guide provides comprehensive information for planning your visit—covering opening hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions—while highlighting the institute’s ongoing contributions to military scholarship and public education (Wikipedia - NIMH, NIMH Official Website).

Table of Contents

Origins and Formation of the NIMH

The NIMH was established on July 1, 2005, uniting:

  • The Institute of Military History of the Royal Netherlands Army
  • The Section of Air Force History of the Royal Netherlands Air Force
  • The Institute for Maritime History of the Royal Netherlands Navy
  • The Bureau of Marechaussee History

This consolidation, overseen by the Ministry of Defence, elevated the quality and accessibility of military historical research, education, and public engagement in the Netherlands (Wikipedia - NIMH).


Mission and Core Objectives

The NIMH’s mission includes:

  • Scholarly Research: Academic studies on Dutch and international military history.
  • Education: Teaching history at military academies.
  • Advisory Role: Providing expertise to inform defence policy and operations.
  • Documentation: Systematic preservation of records on current missions.
  • Collection Management: Extensive artifact stewardship and public accessibility (Wikipedia - NIMH).

Organizational Structure

The institute comprises:

  • Department of Scientific Research (WO): Oversees research and publications.
  • Department of Operational Services (OD): Supports Dutch armed forces.
  • Department of Public Information and Collections (PI&C): Manages collections and public programming.

Ben Schoenmaker serves as the current director (Wikipedia - NIMH).


Historical Significance and National Role

NIMH plays a critical role in preserving and interpreting Dutch military history, documenting conflicts from the Eighty Years’ War to ongoing peacekeeping missions. Its advisory function supports the Ministry of Defence in national and international contexts, including NATO and the UN.


Educational and Outreach Activities

NIMH makes military history accessible through:

  • Publications: Books, articles, and reports.
  • Exhibitions and Events: Collaborations with museums and cultural partners in The Hague and beyond.
  • Digital Resources: Online archives and databases (NIMH Official Website).

Collections and Archival Holdings

The NIMH manages a vast range of materials:

  • Official military documents, operational orders, and reports
  • Personal diaries, correspondence, and memoirs
  • Photographs, maps, and military artifacts (uniforms, medals, etc.)

These resources are available to researchers and the public through both on-site and digital access (Wikipedia - NIMH).


Integration with the Netherlands Defence Academy

Collaboration with the Netherlands Defence Academy enhances interdisciplinary research and military education, serving both military and civilian communities.


Contemporary Relevance

Beyond historical research, NIMH actively documents current Dutch military operations and peacekeeping missions, supporting evidence-based policy and fostering public understanding in a rapidly changing world (Wikipedia - NIMH).


Visitor Information

Hours and Admission

  • Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Always confirm on the official NIMH website for updates.
  • Admission: Free for all exhibitions. Guided tours and special events may require advance booking or a fee.
  • Archive Access: Appointments recommended for archival research to ensure personalized support.

Location and Directions

  • Address: Frederikkazerne, Korte Voorhout 7, 2511 CW The Hague
  • Public Transport: Tram 12 or bus 24 to “Frederikkazerne.”
  • By Car: On-site parking available, including accessible spaces.

Accessibility and Services

  • Wheelchair accessible facilities.
  • Assistance available for visitors with sensory impairments (please contact in advance).
  • Group and school tours available by appointment.

Guided Tours and Events

  • Guided tours offer in-depth insights into Dutch military history and are available by request.
  • The NIMH organizes lectures, workshops, and commemorative events throughout the year.

Exhibits and Collections

  • Permanent Exhibits: World War II artifacts, decolonization and peacekeeping materials, Cold War and NATO history.
  • Rotating Exhibits: Special topics and new research highlights.
  • Digital Displays: Online access to select collections and virtual exhibitions.

Research and Archival Access

  • Reading Room: Open to researchers—appointments strongly recommended.
  • Digital Catalogues: Explore collections online prior to your visit.
  • Genealogy Support: Assistance for those researching military ancestors.

Nearby Attractions in The Hague

Enhance your visit by exploring:

  • The Mauritshuis Museum: Dutch Golden Age art.
  • The Peace Palace: International Court of Justice.
  • Panorama Mesdag: 19th-century panoramic painting.
  • Dutch Resistance Museum: WWII history.

Visual and Interactive Resources

NIMH’s website features high-quality images, virtual tours, and interactive maps. Descriptive alt tags (e.g., “NIMH World War II Exhibit”) ensure accessibility for all users.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; check the official site before visiting.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry is free. Special events or guided tours may require booking.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment for groups and special interests.

Q: Is the institute suitable for children/families?
A: Yes, with accessible and educational exhibits for all ages.

Q: Can I research my family’s military history?
A: Yes, the NIMH supports genealogical research with access to personnel records and guidance.

Q: Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, and additional assistance is available upon request.

Q: Do I need an appointment for archives?
A: Recommended for research; general exhibits do not require an appointment.


Call to Action

Start planning your visit to the NIMH to immerse yourself in Dutch military history. For the latest updates, opening hours, and event details, visit the official NIMH website. Follow NIMH on social media and, for an enhanced on-site experience, download the Audiala app for guided tours of The Hague’s historical sites.



Visiting the NIMH is an enriching experience that connects past and present, offering unique resources, expert support, and a gateway to understanding the Netherlands’ military legacy. Check for current information, book ahead for research visits, and explore both the institute and The Hague’s other historical treasures.

Visit The Most Interesting Places In The Hague

301 Steps (Daylight/Tungsten)
301 Steps (Daylight/Tungsten)
Afvoerkanaal
Afvoerkanaal
Albert Plesman
Albert Plesman
Amare
Amare
Antonius Abtkerk, Scheveningen
Antonius Abtkerk, Scheveningen
Apostolic Nunciature To The Netherlands
Apostolic Nunciature To The Netherlands
Beatrixkwartier
Beatrixkwartier
Beelden Aan Zee
Beelden Aan Zee
Binckhorst Castle
Binckhorst Castle
Bingoal Stadion
Bingoal Stadion
Binnenhof
Binnenhof
Bronovo Hospital
Bronovo Hospital
|
  Calla'S
| Calla'S
Castalia
Castalia
Catshuis
Catshuis
Chamber Of The Dutch House Of Representatives
Chamber Of The Dutch House Of Representatives
Churchillplein
Churchillplein
Circustheater
Circustheater
City Hall Of The Hague
City Hall Of The Hague
Court Chapel
Court Chapel
De Blauwe Aanslag
De Blauwe Aanslag
De Kroon
De Kroon
De Uithof
De Uithof
De Uithof (Den Haag)
De Uithof (Den Haag)
Den Haag Centraal Railway Station
Den Haag Centraal Railway Station
Den Haag Hs Railway Station
Den Haag Hs Railway Station
Den Haag Laan Van Noi Railway Station
Den Haag Laan Van Noi Railway Station
Den Haag Mariahoeve Railway Station
Den Haag Mariahoeve Railway Station
Den Haag Moerwijk Railway Station
Den Haag Moerwijk Railway Station
Den Haag Ring Road
Den Haag Ring Road
Den Haag Ypenburg Railway Station
Den Haag Ypenburg Railway Station
Drievliet
Drievliet
Dutch Senate
Dutch Senate
Elandstraatkerk
Elandstraatkerk
Embassy Of Germany, The Hague
Embassy Of Germany, The Hague
Embassy Of Sweden, The Hague
Embassy Of Sweden, The Hague
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, The Hague
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, The Hague
Embassy Of The State Of Palestine In Holland
Embassy Of The State Of Palestine In Holland
Embassy Of Ukraine, The Hague
Embassy Of Ukraine, The Hague
Englandspiel Memorial
Englandspiel Memorial
Escher Museum
Escher Museum
Forepark
Forepark
Fotomuseum Den Haag
Fotomuseum Den Haag
Gallery Prince Willem V
Gallery Prince Willem V
George Maduro
George Maduro
George Maduroplein
George Maduroplein
Gevangenpoort
Gevangenpoort
Grand Hotel Central, The Hague
Grand Hotel Central, The Hague
Grote Markt
Grote Markt
Grote Of Sint-Jacobskerk
Grote Of Sint-Jacobskerk
Gymnasium Haganum
Gymnasium Haganum
Haags Historisch Museum
Haags Historisch Museum
Haags Openbaar Vervoer Museum
Haags Openbaar Vervoer Museum
Hague Arts Circle
Hague Arts Circle
Hendrik Goeman Borgesius
Hendrik Goeman Borgesius
Het Strijkijzer
Het Strijkijzer
Hoftoren
Hoftoren
Honour Roll Of The Fallen 1940-1945
Honour Roll Of The Fallen 1940-1945
Hotel Des Indes
Hotel Des Indes
Houtrusthallen
Houtrusthallen
Hubertustunnel
Hubertustunnel
Huguetan House
Huguetan House
Huis Ten Bosch
Huis Ten Bosch
Huis Van Het Boek
Huis Van Het Boek
Indies Monument
Indies Monument
Johan Van Oldenbarnevelt
Johan Van Oldenbarnevelt
Jubi Building
Jubi Building
Julianakerk, Transvaalkwartier, The Hague
Julianakerk, Transvaalkwartier, The Hague
Katholiek Apostolische Kerk
Katholiek Apostolische Kerk
Kb National Library Of The Netherlands
Kb National Library Of The Netherlands
Kijkduin En Ockenburgh
Kijkduin En Ockenburgh
Kinderboekenmuseum
Kinderboekenmuseum
Kloosterkerk
Kloosterkerk
Kneuterdijk Palace
Kneuterdijk Palace
Koninklijke Schouwburg
Koninklijke Schouwburg
Kunstmuseum Den Haag
Kunstmuseum Den Haag
Kurhaus Of Scheveningen
Kurhaus Of Scheveningen
Lange Voorhout Palace
Lange Voorhout Palace
Leidschenveen
Leidschenveen
Leyenburg (Den Haag)
Leyenburg (Den Haag)
Literature Museum
Literature Museum
Logement Van Amsterdam
Logement Van Amsterdam
Loosduinen Abbey
Loosduinen Abbey
Louis Couperus
Louis Couperus
Louwman Museum
Louwman Museum
Lutherse Kerk
Lutherse Kerk
Madurodam
Madurodam
Magazijn Hollandia, Prinsegracht, The Hague
Magazijn Hollandia, Prinsegracht, The Hague
Maison De Bonneterie
Maison De Bonneterie
Malieveld
Malieveld
Mauritshuis
Mauritshuis
Meijendel
Meijendel
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Monument Of Prince Bernhard, Duke Of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach
Monument Of Prince Bernhard, Duke Of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach
Museon-Omniversum
Museon-Omniversum
Museum Bredius
Museum Bredius
Museum Gevangenpoort
Museum Gevangenpoort
Nassauplein
Nassauplein
Nationaal Archief
Nationaal Archief
Nationale Toneel Gebouw
Nationale Toneel Gebouw
Netherlands Institute For Art History
Netherlands Institute For Art History
Netherlands Institute For Military History
Netherlands Institute For Military History
New Babylon
New Babylon
Nieuwe Badkapel, Scheveningen
Nieuwe Badkapel, Scheveningen
Nieuwe Kerk
Nieuwe Kerk
Noordeinde Palace
Noordeinde Palace
Old City Hall, The Hague
Old City Hall, The Hague
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Hemelvaartkerk
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Hemelvaartkerk
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Van-Lourdeskerk
Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Van-Lourdeskerk
Oranjehotel
Oranjehotel
Oud Eik En Duinen
Oud Eik En Duinen
Oud-Katholieke Kerk
Oud-Katholieke Kerk
Paard Van Troje
Paard Van Troje
Panorama Mesdag
Panorama Mesdag
Passage
Passage
Peace Palace
Peace Palace
Plein 1813
Plein 1813
Prins Clausplein
Prins Clausplein
Prinses Julianakerk
Prinses Julianakerk
Pulchri Studio
Pulchri Studio
Ridderzaal
Ridderzaal
Royal
Royal
Royal Archives Of The Netherlands
Royal Archives Of The Netherlands
Scheveningen
Scheveningen
Scheveningen Pier
Scheveningen Pier
Scheveningse Bosjes
Scheveningse Bosjes
Sea Life Scheveningen
Sea Life Scheveningen
Seinpost
Seinpost
Sint-Jacobus De Meerderekerk
Sint-Jacobus De Meerderekerk
Sint-Marthakerk
Sint-Marthakerk
Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk
Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk
Sound And Vision The Hague
Sound And Vision The Hague
Stadtholders Gate
Stadtholders Gate
Taipei Representative Office In The Netherlands
Taipei Representative Office In The Netherlands
Teresia Van Avilakerk
Teresia Van Avilakerk
The House Of Lords
The House Of Lords
The Mesdag Collection
The Mesdag Collection
Theater Dakota
Theater Dakota
Thorbecke-Monument
Thorbecke-Monument
Torentje
Torentje
Tram Tunnel
Tram Tunnel
Trêveszaal
Trêveszaal
Troelstra Memorial
Troelstra Memorial
United Nations Detention Unit
United Nations Detention Unit
Voorburg
Voorburg
Waalse Kerk, The Hague
Waalse Kerk, The Hague
Watertoren
Watertoren
Westbroekpark
Westbroekpark
Willem Drees
Willem Drees
World Forum Convention Center
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World Peace Flame
World Peace Flame
Yi Tjoune
Yi Tjoune
Ypenburg Interchange
Ypenburg Interchange
Zuiderpark
Zuiderpark
Zuiderpark Stadion
Zuiderpark Stadion