Koudekerk aan den Rijn combines architectural history with paths through the countryside along the Oude Rijn. When choosing a place to stay, there are two specific highlights to consider: historic buildings and archaeological traces on the one hand, and walking and cycling routes on the other. The Hondsdijkroute offers a clearly defined walking option: it is 7.2 kilometres long, follows a circular route and starts in Koudekerk.
Buildings between the village centre and the Oude Rijn
The Brugkerk is the oldest monument in Koudekerk and the municipality of Alphen aan den Rijn. When it was first built, it was named St.-Nicolaaskerk; its foundation dates back approximately to the 10th century AD. Another testament to the town’s history is the mechanical Amsterdam-style drawbridge at Bruggestraat 7. It spans the Oude Rijn at the entrance to the old village centre. The bridge was built in 1929, replacing a double-leaf bascule bridge dating from 1876.
The Hondsdijkse Molen was built at its current location in 1693, after a mill originally from Leiden was acquired in 1644. It operated until 1959 to drain the Hondsdijkse Polder. At Groot Poelgeest, a circular castle site surrounded by a moat and the polygonal western gate tower have been preserved. Here, the history can be read in the different architectural forms and clearly distinguishable dates.
Archaeology and the farming landscape
The period after the Romans’ departure is also part of the history of the Rijnstreek: the farms and burial ground in Koudekerk are considered the first signs of human presence in the region. The site of the first excavations, near the small tower at Groot Poelgeest, is visible from Dorpsstraat. From Lagewaard or Ruigekade, you can see the excavation site to the left of the Hondsdijkse Molen. An information board explains how people lived here in the Early Middle Ages. As signage may change, check on site whether the board is still there.
The Westdorp farmstead adds to this picture of rural history. It is a largely well-preserved farm dating from the late 19th century, with a longhouse-style farmhouse typical of the Rijnstreek, an associated summer house and a barn. Westdorp is part of a historically valuable strip of farms along the Oude Rijn. The complex therefore represents not only a single type of farmstead, but is also part of a rural landscape shaped by the river corridor.
Walking routes and views of the polders
For a walk through the countryside, Rondje Koudekerk follows a nature-friendly riverbank with a wide variety of plants. The walk starts at the Dierenweide and follows an atmospheric lane lined with pollard willows towards Lagewaard. Details of the nature excursion may change; check the latest information before setting out. Rondje Koudekerk is suitable for people with visual impairments and wheelchair users. Check the conditions for participation in advance.
The Hondsdijkroute and Rondje Koudekerk offer different points of reference for planning: the Hondsdijkroute has a specified circular route and length, while Rondje Koudekerk starts at the Dierenweide and includes a section towards Lagewaard. This can help you decide whether a stated walking distance or a route with described landscape features matters more to you.
If you prefer to cycle, there is a cycling route along Mattenkade, Ruigekade and Batelaan. Several rest areas and wide views over the polders north of the Oude Rijn define this section. This gives you different perspectives to consider when planning your trip: buildings and local history, a walk with named waypoints, or a cycling tour with places to rest and expansive views of the countryside.
Discover more destinations: Hazerswoude-Dorp, Hazerswoude-Rijndijk.
Go to the main travel overview: Rijnwoude.
