Open during restoration Oldehove: glow-up
The Oldehove may be wrapped in scaffolding, but it being crooked is here to stay. Until December 2026, Leeuwarden’s most iconic landmark is undergoing an extensive restoration. The brickwork, joints, iron structures, clock faces — everything is getting the attention it deserves. A true glowup, so the Oldehove will look pristine again. But hidden away behind scaffolding? Not at all. While restoration work continues on the outside, there’s still plenty happening inside. From May to December, you can enjoy a wide range of special activities in and around the Oldehove.
Open for maintenance
During the Oldehove Glowup, the tower is being transformed into an exciting venue packed with unique activities that you wouldn’t normally find here. From film screenings and livingroom concerts to dinners above, game nights, rooftop stargazing, and even a free tattoo immortalizing Leeuwarden’s famously crooked pride— from May to December, the Oldehove is open precisely because of maintenance! Curious about the full programme? Keep an eye on this page for updates.
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The Oldehove? Never Heard of It?
Blog
More sightseeing - more fun
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De Blokhuispoort
Blokhuispoort is a unique place in the heart of Leeuwarden where history, creativity and culture come together. Once a prison, it has been transformed into a vibrant meeting place. Today, it is home to creative entrepreneurs, independent shops, cosy cafés and a wonderful restaurant.
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Saint Boniface Church
Saint Boniface Church is a beautiful church in Leeuwarden. Inside, you’ll find five altars, magnificent stained-glass windows, two organs and unique ornaments. Let yourself be amazed by the beauty of this remarkable place.
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De Waag
Once Leeuwarden’s weighing house, The Waag is now home to Brasserie De Stadswaag, a wonderful spot to enjoy lunch in the bustling heart of the city.
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Central Pharmacy
The Central Pharmacy, the 'Centraal Apotheek', is a stunning Art Nouveau building in the heart of Leeuwarden. Its distinctive yellow façade and beautiful decorative details immediately catch the eye. Remarkably, after all these years, it is still a working pharmacy today.
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Grote Kerk
The Grote Kerk (the 'Big Church'), also known as the Jacobijnerkerk, is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Step inside to discover beautiful architectural details and centuries of fascinating history.
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Resistance Memorial
The Resistance Memorial can be found in the Prinsentuin. This bronze sculpture depicting two standing figures can be admired during a beautiful walk through the park.
Dining Out - A bite to eat
After climbing the Oldehove four times, dancing on the rooftop and singing your heart out with the Shanty Choir, chances are you’ll be feeling peckish. Luckily, Leeuwarden’s historic city centre is bursting with cosy cafés, great restaurants and plenty of places to enjoy a delicious meal.
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Double B
Double B
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Garage Modern
Garage Modern
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't Zusje
't Zusje
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Fire Café
Fire Café
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Grand Café Post Plaza
Grand Café Post Plaza
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Fellini City Lounge
Fellini City Lounge
Stay the night
And while you're here, why not stay the night? How you do that is entirely up to you. Leeuwarden offers plenty of wonderful places to stay, from traditional Frisian farmhouses to luxurious hotel rooms right in the heart of the city. Wherever you choose to stay, unforgettable days of exploring Leeuwarden await!
Zzzz
Good to know - welcome to Leeuwarden
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FAQ
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