Westbroekpark: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in The Hague
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: Westbroekpark’s History and Significance
Located in the vibrant Scheveningen district of The Hague, Westbroekpark is an iconic green oasis celebrated for its lush landscapes, cultural events, and community spirit. Established in the 1920s as part of the Garden City movement, the park was designed to offer urban residents both natural tranquility and spaces for recreation and education (thehague.com). Spanning approximately 18 hectares, its English landscape garden design features wide lawns, meandering waterways, and mature trees, making it a popular escape from city life (dendelft.nl).
Westbroekpark is internationally renowned for the spectacular Rosarium, which boasts over 20,000 rose bushes and more than 300 varieties—making it one of the Netherlands’ largest rose gardens. The park’s role as a cultural hub is highlighted by events such as the summer theater festival “De Parade” and the Food Truck Festival TREK, attracting both locals and tourists (scheveningen.com).
Accessibility is a hallmark of Westbroekpark, with daily free entry, wheelchair-accessible paths, playgrounds, and several dining options, including the beloved tea house De Waterkant. The park is easy to reach by public transport, bike, or on foot from The Hague’s city center (guidetoeurope.com).
Contents
- Discover Westbroekpark
- Historical Development
- The Rosarium: A Floral Highlight
- Arboretum and Biodiversity
- Social and Cultural Importance
- Architectural and Recreational Features
- Visitor Information
- Visiting Hours & Tickets
- Accessibility & Guided Tours
- Getting There
- Key Attractions
- Waterways & Boating
- Lawns & Picnic Areas
- Tea House & Café
- Playground
- Art Installations
- Cultural Events
- De Parade Festival
- Food Truck Festival TREK
- Concerts & Family Events
- International Rose Trials
- Facilities & Amenities
- Visitor Tips
- Nearby Attractions & Accommodation
- Safety & Park Etiquette
- Accessibility for International Visitors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- The Hague’s Green Network
- Visuals & Interactive Resources
- Sources
Discover Westbroekpark: The Hague’s Green Gem
Set between the city center and the North Sea coast, Westbroekpark is a premier historical park that combines horticultural excellence, recreational facilities, and vibrant cultural events. Its English landscape design and world-class Rosarium offer a peaceful yet dynamic urban retreat.
Historical Development
Westbroekpark was established in the 1920s, inspired by the Garden City movement that promoted the integration of green spaces within urban planning (thehague.com). The park’s design takes cues from English landscape gardens, with its expansive lawns, water features, and scenic vistas (takethehague.nl).
The Rosarium: A Floral Highlight
A signature feature, the International Rosarium, was created in the 1960s and now displays over 20,000 rose bushes in more than 300 varieties. The Rosarium is at its best from late June through October, with peak blooms in July (denhaag.com). The annual International Rose Trials further cement the park’s reputation as a center for rose breeding and horticultural innovation.
Arboretum and Biodiversity
Complementing the Rosarium, Westbroekpark’s arboretum—curated by horticulturist Simon Doorenbos—contains more than 700 tree species, including rare specimens. The arboretum enhances biodiversity and serves as an educational resource (thehague.com).
Social and Cultural Importance
Westbroekpark’s open fields, playgrounds, and walking paths attract families and sports enthusiasts alike. The park is a lively venue for community gatherings and hosts major events such as “De Parade,” a summer theater festival, and the popular Food Truck Festival TREK (scheveningen.com).
Architectural and Recreational Features
The park is dotted with walking and cycling paths, historical bridges, and well-placed benches. De Waterkant tea house, set by the water’s edge, offers a tranquil spot for refreshments. WWII-era bunkers add historical intrigue and are sometimes used for exhibitions (thehague.com).
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours & Tickets
- Hours: Open daily from early morning to dusk (typically 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM).
- Tickets: Park entry and access to the Rosarium are free. Some festivals and guided tours require separate tickets.
Accessibility & Guided Tours
- Accessibility: Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly paths, accessible restrooms, and seating throughout the park.
- Guided Tours: Seasonal tours of the Rosarium and arboretum are available; check local listings.
Getting There
- Public Transport: Easily accessed by tram and bus from The Hague city center.
- Bike: Ample bicycle parking at the main entrances.
- Car: Limited street parking—public transport or cycling is recommended during busy events (guidetoeurope.com).
Key Attractions
International Rosarium
The park’s horticultural centerpiece, the Rosarium, is home to more than 20,000 rose bushes and hosts the annual International Rose Trials (denhaag.com; The Rose Society Netherlands).
Waterways & Boating
Tranquil canals and ponds wind through the park. Rowboats and pedal boats are available for rent in the warmer months (visitthehague.com).
Lawns & Picnic Areas
Expansive, well-maintained lawns are perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, or informal sports.
Tea House & Café
De Waterkant tea house offers light meals and refreshments with views of the Rosarium.
Children’s Playground
A modern, spacious playground near the main entrance makes the park ideal for families.
Sculpture & Art Installations
About 20 sculptures and art installations by Dutch artists enrich the park’s cultural landscape (kunstinthehague.nl).
Cultural Events
De Parade Theater Festival
Each summer, the park transforms for the De Parade festival, featuring open-air theater, music, and food (denhaag.com).
Food Truck Festival TREK
The festival brings dozens of food trucks, live music, and entertainment to the park, typically in late August (scheveningen.com).
Concerts & Community Events
Westbroekpark hosts open-air concerts, community gatherings, children’s activities, and the annual International Rose Trials.
Facilities & Amenities
- Dining: De Waterkant tea house, Chinese wok restaurant, and seasonal food trucks during events (denhaag.com).
- Restrooms: Located near main entrances and the Rosarium.
- Seating: Benches and picnic tables throughout.
- Recreation: Playground, sports fields, boating, and fishing with a permit.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time: Late June–October for rose blooms; May–August for festivals.
- Weather: The Hague’s coastal climate can be variable—bring layers and an umbrella.
- Picnicking: Open lawns and shaded areas are ideal for picnics. Bringing your own food is allowed.
- Pets: Dogs are welcome on a leash; waste bins are provided.
- Photography: The Rosarium and waterways are particularly photogenic.
Nearby Attractions & Accommodation
Westbroekpark is close to Madurodam, Beelden aan Zee, Scheveningen beach, and the city center. The Holiday Inn Express The Hague - Parliament is a popular nearby hotel (guidetoeurope.com).
Safety & Park Etiquette
The park is family-friendly and regularly patrolled. Visitors should dispose of litter responsibly and respect both the scenery and event guidelines.
Accessibility for International Visitors
English is widely spoken, and most signage is bilingual. The park is easy to reach from major airports and is well-connected by public transport (guidetoeurope.com).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Westbroekpark’s opening hours?
A: Open daily from early morning until dusk, typically 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Entry is free; some events or guided tours may require tickets.
Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Yes, on a leash.
Q: Is the park wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, most paths and restrooms are accessible.
Q: When is the best time to visit the Rosarium?
A: Late June through October, with peak bloom in July.
Westbroekpark’s Role in The Hague’s Green Network
As part of the city’s extensive park system, Westbroekpark provides vital green space, promotes biodiversity, and serves as a hub for recreation and cultural life. Its blend of natural beauty and dynamic events illustrates The Hague’s commitment to sustainable urban living (postcardsforpepper.com).
Visuals & Interactive Resources
For virtual tours, maps, and images of Westbroekpark’s gardens and events, visit thehague.com and related official sources.
Summary and Final Tips
Westbroekpark is a model of urban green space, blending historical landscape design, world-class horticulture, and a vibrant event calendar. With free entry, accessible facilities, and attractions for all ages, it’s a top destination for visitors to The Hague. For the full experience, plan your visit during the Rosarium’s peak bloom or during major events like “De Parade” or Festival TREK. For updates, download the Audiala app and follow official tourism channels.
Sources
- Westbroekpark in The Hague: History, Visitor Information, and Cultural Highlights (thehague.com)
- Westbroekpark Visiting Hours, Attractions, and Cultural Events (denhaag.com)
- Westbroekpark Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide (guidetoeurope.com)
- Westbroekpark Rose Garden, The Hague (dendelft.nl)
- De Parade Theater Festival (scheveningen.com)
- The Rose Society Netherlands
- kunstinthehague.nl
- visitthehague.com
- HTM Public Transport
- postcardsforpepper.com
- allevents.in
