Nearly 700 years of silver tradition and the history of a fortified town give Schoonhoven a clear cultural focus. The ferry, bus and parking can also be factored into your travel plans.
Silversmithing and town history
In the 14th century, castle lords commissioned the first silversmiths. Schoonhoven then developed into a unique centre of silversmithing; its tradition as a silver city is nearly 700 years old. The Nederlands Zilvermuseum is housed in the old arsenal. Its unique collection of Dutch silverware, dating from 1600 to the present day, offers an overview of the craft’s long history.
At the museum, you can watch silversmiths create special pieces from gold and silver in the Zilversmederij. The smiths’ presence may vary from day to day. The museum also offers workshops. Children can work in the silver workshop and take part in a treasure hunt every day; programmes may change. If you are interested in the work of goldsmiths and silversmiths, Schoonhoven also has studios, galleries and workshops. Visitors can enter active studios and discover their stories and work. Access may vary from studio to studio.
Schoonhoven’s role as a fortified town in the Oude Hollandse Waterlinie is part of its history. Veerpoort was built in 1601 during the modernisation of the fortifications. It still closes when water levels are exceptionally high. In Schoonhoven, silversmithing and a tangible history of town fortifications thus come together.
The Nederlands Zilvermuseum is fully wheelchair accessible; a wheelchair is available. As facilities may change, it is best to confirm the current arrangements before your visit.
Walking tours and planning your time
There are two town walks with specified distances and durations. The Waterlinieommetje Schoonhoven is 4 kilometres long and takes 45 minutes. The “Van Soldaat tot Zilversmid” town walk covers 3.5 kilometres and takes one hour. It starts and ends at TOP Schoonhoven, Buiten de Veerpoort, in Schoonhoven. The two walks therefore differ both in distance and estimated duration. Use both details when deciding which walk fits your day better.
Other routes run in and around Schoonhoven, along dikes or through the polder. From Schoonhoven, you can also enjoy a view across the Lek. These impressions add a landscape perspective to the town’s history, without requiring you to plan a particular walk.
Getting there and practical information
The Veerdienst Schoonhoven connects Schoonhoven and Gelkenes across the Lek. If you plan to take the ferry, check the timetable before departure. Bus routes 195, 295 and 497 stop in and depart from Schoonhoven; checking the current timetable can help with planning here too.
Parking in Schoonhoven is free. The P2 Centrum car park is on the south side of town. From there, it is just a few minutes through Veerpoort to the historic town centre. As local parking rules may change, check the information for the car park before you travel.
For the broader travel overview: Schoonhoven.
