Van der Werfpark

About

Van der Werfpark is one of Leiden’s most peaceful green spaces, created in the late 19th century on the site of the devastating gunpowder explosion of 1807. What was once a vast area of destruction, known as the Grote Ruin, was transformed into a serene city park with winding paths, mature trees, and views over the Rapenburg canal. Designed by landscape architects Zocher Jr. and Schaap, the park offers a calm retreat in the heart of the city, ideal for quiet walks or a moment of rest. At its centre stands the statue of Mayor Pieter van der Werff, commemorating his leadership during the Siege of Leiden. Today, Van der Werfpark blends history and tranquillity, inviting visitors to reflect on the city’s resilience while enjoying a gentle, leafy escape from the urban bustle.

Leiden Netherlands

Location

Van der Werfpark Leiden is located along the Steenschuur canal at Kruitschip, in the heart of Leiden's historic city centre, Netherlands, with entrances at Garenmarkt and Doezastraat. Laid out in 1886 on the site of the "Great Ruin" from the 1807 gunpowder ship explosion, it features a central statue of mayor Pieter van der Werff from the 1574 Siege of Leiden, lush lawns, flowerbeds, and a teahouse terrace. Nearby sit the Heilige Lodewijkkerk across the water, bustling Garenmarkt square, Breestraat shops and cafés, Hooglandse Kerk, and Leiden City Hall, all within a 5-10 minute walk, plus easy access to Leiden Central Station.