Heempark Leiden

Description

Heempark Leiden is a public park in which several Dutch landscapes have been recreated on a small scale. Visitors walk through woodland, dune, marsh and roadside habitats with the wild flora and fauna associated with each environment.

History

The park was laid out in 1959, when native gardens and parks were increasingly used to introduce urban residents to indigenous nature close to home. Its concept follows the ideas popularised by Jac. P. Thijsse.

Nature & layout

Alternation between dry dune soil, wet marsh, sheltered woodland and open verge creates clear differences in vegetation. It makes visible how soil and water determine which species can grow in a particular place.

Visitor information

The park is free and open every day from sunrise to sunset. The entrance is on Oegstgeesterweg; through the gate by the windmill, walkers can continue towards the Oud Poelgeest estate.

Did you know?

A single walk connects urban greenery with a historic country estate. The native park therefore serves both as a destination and as a green link between Leiden and Oud Poelgeest.