Several days a year, the Jan Anne Beijerinck pumping station opens to visitors, and the old engines then run at full capacity. In Capelle aan den IJssel, industrial heritage can also be experienced through preserved technology. The pumping station is considered the oldest still-operating, electrically powered pumping station in the Netherlands. Since 24 November 2009, it has been a municipal monument and is regarded as a site of historical value with distinctive architecture. As it opens only on specific days, check the visiting dates before you travel.
Village Centre and Monuments
The protected townscape includes the old village centre, the immediate surroundings of the Dorpskerk and about 250 metres of Dorpsstraat, with its historic dike-side buildings. The Hollandsche IJssel forms the southern boundary of the protected townscape. Capelse Dorpskerk is a Rijksmonument; check visitor access before you travel. The island and double castle moats have been preserved in Slotpark. The Dief-en-Duifhuisje has also been preserved.
A walking and cycling route past Capelle’s monuments was developed jointly by the Municipality of Capelle aan den IJssel and the Historical Association of Capelle aan den IJssel. The association is open from April to October on the second Saturday of each month from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.; a guided tour of the Slot takes place at 2:00 p.m. Check the seasonal opening hours in advance.
Green Trails in Schollebos
Schollebos was developed around 1980 as a green park area in the English landscape style. Together with the ’s-Gravenweggebied, it forms a green buffer zone between the Schollevaar, Middelwatering and Oostgaarde districts. Along the nature trail, information provides insights into the natural features found in the area. Schollebos also has a BMX track for children.
Heemtuin Capelle aan den IJssel offers a different experience: its extensive network of paths consists of woodchip trails. Visitors can discover unusual plants, trees and insects, especially fungi; many trees and plants are labelled. Heemtuin is freely accessible and free of charge. As it may temporarily close for maintenance or safety reasons, check the access information before your visit.
Cycling and Discovering Nature
Several marked walking and cycling routes pass through the municipality. A signposted 50-kilometre cycling route runs from Gouda to Capelle along the Hollandsche IJssel and can also be completed in sections. If you choose this route, check the signs and published route details before setting out. Another route leads from Schollebos to the Rottemeren: it starts at the IJsseldijk and runs via Schollebos to Zevenhuizen.
For a geocaching adventure, the “Natuurparels” route combines the search with discovering the natural treasures of Capelle aan den IJssel. The Historical Association also offers the “Groen van Toen” cycling route. Route details and available information may change; check them before your trip. This gives you a choice of different ways to explore: a long riverside route, a route through named locations and a nature discovery supported by geocaching.
Culture, Music and Local Insights
CAPSLOC hosts concerts and offers a wide-ranging programme of pop music and pop culture. It is also a creative talent incubator and a springboard for young musical talent. Van Cappellenhuis also offers a cultural programme. As programmes change, it is worth checking the latest event dates.
Since 1975, Kinderboerderij Klaverweide has been a place in Capelle aan den IJssel where people of all ages can enjoy animals, nature and a welcoming atmosphere. According to the facility’s current information, its future location may change; check for updates before your visit.
Getting to CNME De Hooiberg
You can reach CNME De Hooiberg by metro to De Terp station. If you arrive by car, you can park at Purmerhoek and walk from there through the tunnel beneath Abram van Rijckevorselweg to the facility in three minutes. As access arrangements may change, check them before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Capelle An Der Ijssel, Capelle aan den IJssel, Cromstrijen, Leerdam, Ouderkerk, Pijnacker-Nootdorp, Brielle, Hardinxveld-Giessendam.
Return to the main travel overview: South Holland.
