In Slochteren, the story ranges from architectural and collection history to walks through parks and natural areas. The past is especially tangible in the Seghebodus Bell, dating from 1373; outdoors, forests, reed beds, peat lakes and pastureland shape De Baggerputten.

Estate and Early Architectural History

The Fraeylemaborg Estate in Slochteren has a museum, and visitors can take a walk through the park. Separate admission conditions may apply to the museum. Fraeylemaborg was built before 1300 as a simple stone house with thick walls. The estate thus brings together a specific early construction date and present-day opportunities to visit the museum and park.

Church and Bell in Slochteren

Kerk Slochteren is originally a Romanesque-Gothic church building. The transept survives from the original cruciform church, which dates from the 13th century. A transept is the part of a church that extends across the nave; the surviving structure gives a clear sense of the church’s former cross-shaped plan.

The Seghebodus Bell, dating from 1373, hangs in the tower. It measures 126 cm in diameter, weighs 1,300 kg and is one of the largest bells in the province of Groningen. Its name, age, dimensions and weight provide a tangible focal point for a visit, alongside the church’s architectural history. The dates refer to different historical points: Fraeylemaborg was built before 1300, the original cruciform church dates from the 13th century, and the Seghebodus Bell is dated to 1373. This makes it possible to place the estate, church building and bell as separate landmarks in the local architectural and cultural history.

Stone Age and Rocks in the Museum

The “Geological & Archaeological Museum” in Slochteren displays an extensive collection of Stone Age tools and everyday objects. These include flint pieces, hand axes and stone blades. The museum also displays various types of rock from the area around Slochteren. Stone Age objects shaped by people and rocks from the region thus offer two distinct perspectives on the collections.

Walks and Trails in Nature

De Baggerputten near Slochteren is a small nature area with forests, reed beds, peat lakes and pastureland. Walking and cycling trails run through the area. At De Baggerputten, you can also explore the surroundings of historic peat cuttings on foot. The area thus combines a variety of landscape features with trails for walks and bike rides.

You can also take a walk in Slochterbos. Routebureau Groningen has mapped out a route through the grounds. As route conditions can change, check the information before setting out. For cyclists, the 47 km “Ode aan de molen” route is another option. Slochteren harbour could be a possible starting point; parking is available at the harbour. Check the route details before setting off, too.

Discover other destinations: Kolham, Overschild, Steendam, Scharmer.

Return to the main travel overview: Slochteren.