Tucked between the city centre and Wassenaar, Park Clingendael is one of The Hague’s most beloved green treasures. Elegant, historic, and full of quiet charm, it’s the kind of place where locals go to slow down, for long walks beneath old trees, peaceful moments by the ponds, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by beauty. No matter the season, Clingendael feels like stepping into another world, one where nature, history, and design blend perfectly together.

Where is park Clingendael?

Park Clingendael lies between The Hague and Wassenaar, just a short bike ride (about 15 minutes) from the city centre. It’s easily reachable by bike, tram, or bus. The main entrances are on Wassenaarseweg and Van Alkemadelaan, with smaller paths connecting from Ruychrocklaan and Van Ouwenlaan. Once through the gates, the city’s bustle disappears, replaced by winding lanes, vast lawns, and quiet ponds that give the park the feel of a grand countryside estate.

Originally part of a noble family’s private grounds, Clingendael still carries that air of quiet refinement. The historic manor house, designed gardens, and stately trees reflect centuries of landscape design, from the structured Dutch style to the romantic English layout that invites leisurely exploration.

Japanese Garden

The true jewel of the park, however, is the Japanese Garden, a national treasure and one of the few of its kind in the Netherlands. Created in the early 20th century by Marguerite “Lady Daisy” van Brienen, who brought plants, lanterns, and bridges home from her travels to Japan, the garden is a delicate masterpiece of moss, water, and colour. Because of its fragility, it opens only for a few weeks each spring and autumn, when the azaleas and maples are at their most vibrant. Visitors come from across the country to see it, yet it remains one of The Hague’s most serene and contemplative places.

café in the Park

After a walk, make your way to the charming IJgenweis Food & Drink, located near the old estate house. It’s exactly the kind of café you hope to find in a park like this, cozy, elegant, and surrounded by greenery. Inside, you’ll find homemade cakes, fresh sandwiches, and proper tea. On sunny days, the terrace fills quickly with cyclists, walkers, and families enjoying the view of the gardens.

Opening hours: daily 10am – 5pm
Closed in winter (check website for updated opening hours)

tips for visiting

• Best time to visit: The park is open year-round, but the Japanese Garden is only accessible for a few weeks in spring and autumn, check the municipality website for exact dates.
• Getting there: The easiest way is by bike from the city centre (about 15 minutes). Parking is free during the weekends.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, the park is larger than it looks, and a camera for the Japanese Garden’s stunning details.
• Don’t rush: Bring time. Clingendael rewards slow exploration, from its quiet corners to its hidden benches overlooking the ponds.