D'Ursel Castle: A Noble Estate in Bornem

4.4 (975)

Explore the historical D'Ursel Castle in Bornem, Belgium: a noble estate with stunning architecture, gardens, and a rich family history.

Home
Belgium
Flanders
D'Ursel Castle

D'Ursel Castle, located in Bornem, Belgium, is a former summer residence of the Duke of Ursel, now owned by the Province of Antwerp and open to the public. The castle showcases portraits, period furniture, and chambers dedicated to the d'Ursel family's history, offering visitors a glimpse into aristocratic life. Surrounded by a park with gardens and wooded areas, it provides a blend of historical exploration and natural beauty.

A brief summary to D'Ursel Castle

Wolfgang d'Urselstraat 9, Bornem, 2880, BE
Click to display
Click to display

Sunday 1 pm-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring D'Ursel Castle.

Visit on a Sunday when the castle is open to the public to explore the interiors and learn about the d'Ursel family.
Explore the extensive park surrounding the castle, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic.
Check the event calendar for guided tours, art exhibitions, and seasonal festivals.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Fort Liezele

Explore the Historical Depths of Fort Liezele

Castle Wissekerke Basel

Discover the Enchantment of Castle Wissekerke

Steenbakkerijmuseum 't Geleeg

Discover the Art of Brickmaking at Steenbakkerijmuseum 't Geleeg

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach D'Ursel Castle via public transport, take a train to Bornem station. From Brussels, trains to Bornem require a transfer at Mechelen and take approximately 1 hour 14 minutes. From Bornem station, either take bus number 25 towards Puurs and get off at 'Wolfgang d'Urselstraat' , or walk for approximately 20 minutes following the signs to Wolfgang d'Urselstraat. A single bus ticket costs around €3.
Taxi

From Bornem train station, a taxi to D'Ursel Castle is a short ride. Taxi fares in Bornem typically start around €4.4 EUR, with a cost of approximately €1.44 per kilometer. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the trip to the castle, depending on traffic and waiting times. Taxi services are available in Bornem, and it's advisable to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Walking

From Bornem train station, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to D'Ursel Castle. Exit the station and follow the signs towards Wolfgang d'Urselstraat. The route is straightforward and well-signposted. This is a good option for a pleasant stroll through the town.

Discover more about D'Ursel Castle

D'Ursel Castle, or Kasteel d'Ursel, in Bornem, Belgium, once served as the private summer residence for the Duke of Ursel and his family for nearly four centuries. Today, the castle is owned by the State and welcomes visitors to explore its rich history and beautiful grounds. The castle's origins trace back to 1536 with a 'stone house' owned by Thibault Barradot. Over time, it transformed into an aristocratic country residence. In the 18th century, Conrard-Albert, the first Duke of Ursel, commissioned architect Jean Beausire to modernize the castle, giving it a late Baroque facade and replacing the inner courtyard with an imposing reception room. The castle became renowned for hosting banquets and balls, receiving distinguished guests such as the Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Saxony in 1876, and Prince Albert of Belgium in 1894. Around 1960, the castle was sold by Henri, the 8th Duke d'Ursel. In 1994, the Province of Antwerp acquired the property and began restoring it to its former glory. The current Duke of Ursel has loaned a significant portion of the ducal collection for exhibition within the castle. Visitors can explore the grand interiors, adorned with portraits, old furniture, and chambers that narrate the family's history. The surrounding park features gardens, grassy fields, picnic areas, and wooded sections, offering opportunities for relaxation, walks, and outdoor activities.