Waddinxveen’s nature and cultural attractions are easy to distinguish: ’t Weegje is known for its peatland landscape and birdwatching, while the lift bridge and the Remonstrant Church reflect the area’s architectural history. The Parel aan de Gouwe cycle route also offers a view across several municipalities. So, when planning your visit, the first question is whether you would like to focus on paths by the water, individual monuments or a cycling tour.

’t Weegje: Peatland by the Water

In the south of the municipality lies ’t Weegje, a green, water-rich peatland area of about 60 hectares, between the Gouwe, the Ringvaart and the railway line. A large peat lake is surrounded by walking paths, pollarded willows and marsh vegetation. Water, wet ground and trees together shape the area’s character. Those who want to explore the surroundings on foot will find paths by the lake; there is a birdwatching hide on its north side. From there, you can look out over a wet meadow for meadow birds. The paths run along the lake, while the hide focuses your view on the meadow. These two features cater to different interests within the same area: the landscape by the water and the wet meadow.

The Lift Bridge and Remonstrant Church

The lift bridge over the Gouwe in Waddinxveen is a riveted steel structure dating from 1935–1936. It has both cultural-historical and architectural-historical value and is one of the few well-preserved lift bridges; it is highly rare. It is also connected to identical lift bridges in Alphen aan den Rijn and Boskoop. This connection draws attention beyond the structure itself to the bridges in the other two towns. The riveted structure offers a chance to examine its construction, while the years it was built provide a specific historical context. The lift bridge is therefore a clearly defined point of interest for travellers interested in structures and architectural history.

Another perspective on the area’s monuments leads to the Remonstrant Church. It is an officially listed Rijksmonument and the oldest monument in Waddinxveen. It was built along the Gouwe as a semi-hidden church. Its design adds a church building to the architectural history of the area. The church at Zuidkade 59 is also suitable for small musical performances, talks and exhibitions. Waddinxveen thus offers two distinct monument themes: the steel structure of the lift bridge and the history of the church, with its cultural use.

Cycling the Parel aan de Gouwe

The Parel aan de Gouwe cycle route is 27 km long and starts at Waddinxveen Centrum station. It passes through Waddinxveen. Its cultural highlights span several municipalities: Bodegraven-Reeuwijk, Gouda, Krimpenerwaard, Waddinxveen and Zuidplas. Along the way, you’ll find murals, art objects, sayings, windmills and museums. This route offers a different perspective from visiting a single monument or the peatland area: it connects cultural highlights across several places. When choosing between visits to individual places and the cycling tour, the stated distance of 27 km is a practical planning consideration. Check the route details before setting off.

Check Opening Times

The Oudheidkamer is open every Saturday from 10:00 to 16:00; seasonal variations are possible. So check the opening hours before your visit. If you are considering visiting on a Saturday, take this into account when choosing your cultural attractions.

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