Tips for Fun Days Out in The Netherlands

Nature Playgrounds

Playing in a natural environment is not only great fun, but also supports children's physical and cognitive development. It encourages imagination, creativity and a love of the outdoors. At a nature playground, children can explore and learn about nature through play.

Here are some fantastic nature playgrounds to visit this summer:

• De Speeldernis – Rotterdam
• Bosspeeltuin – Vleuten
• Speeltuin Soesterkwartier – Amersfoort
• Boswerf – Zeist
• Play Meadow at Park Berg en Bos – Apeldoorn
• Speelbos De Schuytgraaf – Arnhem
• Floddertje's Garden – Berkel en Rodenrijs

Enjoy a Fairytale Day Out

Many children dream of being a princess, prince or knight. Bring those dreams to life with a visit to one of The Netherlands' historic castles. With around 600 castles across the country, there's always one worth exploring nearby. Here are a few favourites:

• Castle De Haar – Utrecht
• Muiderslot Castle – North Holland
• Doorwerth Castle – Gelderland
• Hoensbroek Castle – Limburg
• Heeswijk Castle – North Brabant
• Loevestein Castle – Gelderland
• Duurstede Castle – Utrecht

A Cultural Day Out

A museum visit is both fun and educational, making it an ideal family activity. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• The Miffy Museum (nijntje museum) is the perfect place for toddlers and pre-school children to discover the world around them through play.
• Take a fascinating journey through the human body at CORPUS in Oegstgeest.
• Explore the wonders of nature at Naturalis Biodiversity Centre in Leiden.
• Discover the history of transport at the Dutch Railway Museum in Utrecht, the Maritime Museum in Rotterdam, or the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam.
• Create, experience and discover stories at the Children's Book Museum in The Hague.
• Go on a mission at the National Military Museum in Soest.
• Is your child a budding scientist? Then NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is a must-visit, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on experiments and discovery.

Water Fun

Nothing beats water play on a warm summer's day!

• Have a water fight in the garden.
• Play a game of football using a bottle as the target.
• Visit a local swimming pool, lake or beach.
• Set up a paddling pool at home.

And if it rains? Put on your wellington boots and enjoy splashing in puddles together!

Cooking and Baking Together

All those summer adventures are sure to work up an appetite. Why not head into the kitchen together and make something delicious? Whether it's baking biscuits, preparing a healthy lunch or making homemade ice lollies, cooking together is a fun way to spend quality time while helping children learn new skills. Enjoy your summer adventures!