Dike history, village architecture and local crafts give Roodeschool three clearly distinct facets. The village also has a rail connection towards Groningen and Eemshaven, as well as access to the cycle node network. When planning a stay, you can start by deciding what interests you most: the development of the dike village, specific architectural styles, or art and crafts? The following places and connections bring these themes to life.
Getting here by train and bicycle
The railway between Roodeschool and Eemshaven was extended by three kilometres, and the station in Roodeschool was relocated. The train from Groningen runs via Roodeschool directly to Eemshaven. Check current services before setting off. This lets you take the rail connection into account when planning your stay, alongside the village’s cultural and historical attractions.
The cycling network also offers a practical planning option: Roodeschool is part of the cycle node network. There is also a connection to the national LF-10 cycle route 1,500 metres outside the village. Check the current signposting before setting off.
From dike village to roadside village
Roodeschool originally emerged as a dike village during the 17th century. From 1718, a dike enclosed an extensive salt-marsh area to form the Oostpolder, protecting the village. Since the end of the 19th century, Roodeschool has developed into a roadside village as buildings along the road became more numerous and densely packed. The settlement’s history thus encompasses both the dike and a later change in the pattern of development.
Buildings and village architecture
At M.H. Trompstraat 13 stands a former house with a bakery, shop and attached shed, dating from 1934. The building was constructed in a regional variant of the Amsterdam School style. In view of its cultural and architectural-historical value, it is considered a well-preserved example of a village shop from the 1930s.
The churches can also be distinguished by their architectural forms. The Gereformeerde kerk (Vrijgemaakt) at Hooilandseweg 82 is an 1871 building with a T-shaped floor plan. The Gereformeerde kerk at Hooilandseweg 75 is a traditional hall church with a massive tower. At Hooilandseweg 21, there is also a relatively well-preserved Groninger cross-wing house with decorative Eclectic-style elements and an attached rear house.
Art and organ building
LITI Galerie / Linda Bouter Art is located in Roodeschool. It exhibits ceramics, paintings, mixed-media works and poems by Linda Bouter and Tiny Bouter-Snijders. The range brings together visual art and writing, and includes works by two named artists.
Orgelmakerij Steendam is also located in Roodeschool. Since 1986, it has built, modified, restored and renovated organs there. The workshop invites visitors to view and handle objects. It is best to arrange your visit with Orgelmakerij Steendam in advance.
Cycling in the Groningen region
For a broader regional perspective, the LF Kustroute offers a distinctive route: it runs for 610 kilometres over, in front of and behind the Dutch dike, with about 90 kilometres passing through Groningen. In Groningen, the route links the Lauwersmeer and Dollard nature areas. If you plan to ride a section of this route, check the exact route before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Eemshaven, Oudeschip, Uithuizen, Warffum, Uithuizermeeden.
Back to the main travel overview: Eemsmond.
