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Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus: A Step Back in Time

Discover 19th-century rural life at Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus in Wilsede, a charming car-free village in the heart of Lüneburg Heath, offering an immersive journey into the region's past.

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Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus, nestled in the heart of Wilsede, offers a captivating glimpse into 19th-century rural life on the Lüneburg Heath. This meticulously preserved farmhouse, dating back to 1742, showcases the rustic living conditions and traditions of the region's past. Visitors can explore the traditional layout, where humans and animals once shared the same roof, and discover the origins of common German sayings. With its authentic furnishings and informative exhibits, the museum provides an immersive experience, transporting visitors to a bygone era. The combined ticket also grants access to the Emhoff sheep shed, featuring changing exhibitions about the cultural landscape of the Lüneburg Heath.

A brief summary to Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as Wilsede is a car-free village and requires walking to reach the museum.
  • Combine your visit with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Lüneburg Heath for a truly authentic experience.
  • Check the schedule for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the history and traditions of the farmhouse.
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Getting There

  • Walking/Horse-drawn Carriage/Bicycle

    Wilsede is a car-free village within the Lüneburg Heath Nature Reserve. The final approach to Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus requires travel by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage. Several parking areas are located on the periphery of the nature reserve in nearby towns such as Undeloh, Niederhaverbeck, or Oberhaverbeck. From these parking areas, follow well-marked hiking trails or cycle paths towards Wilsede. Alternatively, horse-drawn carriages are available from these towns, offering a scenic ride to Wilsede. Once in Wilsede, the museum is located in the village center, easily identifiable by its traditional thatched-roof farmhouse architecture. Horse-drawn carriage rides typically cost around €15-20 per person.

  • Public Transport & Walking

    For visitors arriving by public transport, the Heide-Shuttle bus service offers a convenient way to reach the Lüneburg Heath region. Several Heide-Shuttle routes connect nearby towns and villages with trailheads leading to Wilsede. From Lüneburg, take Heide-Shuttle Ring 5 to Döhle. From train stations in Handeloh, Wintermoor, Schneverdingen, Soltau and Wolterdingen, you can connect to the Heide-Shuttle bus routes. From the designated bus stops, follow the hiking trails or cycle paths towards Wilsede. The final leg of the journey will be on foot, by bicycle, or by horse-drawn carriage. Heide-Shuttle is free of charge from July 15 to October 15. Outside of this period, standard bus fares apply.

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Discover more about Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus

Step into a living history book at the Heidemuseum Dat ole Huus, a meticulously preserved farmhouse museum in the heart of Wilsede. This charming village, deep within the Lüneburg Heath Nature Reserve, offers a unique escape from the modern world, accessible only by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage. The museum itself, one of the oldest open-air museums in Germany, provides an unparalleled glimpse into the daily lives of farmers and their families on the Lüneburg Heath around 1850. Built in 1742, the traditional Low German house, is the oldest farmhouse in the Lüneburg Heath Nature Park and typical of the Northern Heath (Nordheide). The museum's founder, Bernhard Dageförde, purchased the building in 1907, had it dismantled in Hanstedt and reconstructed in Wilsede as a farmhouse museum. Dageförde furnished the house with numerous artefacts typical of the Lüneburg Heath. Even though the Emhoff bears a more recent date of construction, researchers believe that Dat ole Huus actually has a considerably older kitchen area, built around 1540. As you enter Dat ole Huus, prepare to be transported back in time. The interior reveals a world where practicality reigned supreme. Notice the absence of a chimney; cooking was done over an open hearth, filling the house with the smoky aroma of traditional meals. Imagine families gathering around the fire, sharing stories and warmth in the heart of their home. The layout reflects the close relationship between humans and animals, who lived under the same roof, a common practice in the region to conserve heat during harsh winters. Explore the various rooms, each furnished with authentic artifacts that bring the past to life. See the simple sleeping quarters, the tools used for farming and crafting, and the kitchen implements that sustained families for generations. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the history of the house, the traditions of the Lüneburg Heath, and the origins of well-known German sayings, adding depth and context to the experience. Beyond the main farmhouse, the museum complex includes the Emhoff sheep shed, which hosts changing exhibitions focused on the cultural landscape of the Lüneburg Heath. These exhibitions delve into the history of heath farming, showcasing the tools, techniques, and traditions that shaped the region's unique character. Learn about the importance of sheep farming in maintaining the heathland ecosystem and the challenges faced by farmers in this demanding environment. A visit to Dat ole Huus is more than just a museum tour; it's an immersive journey into the past. It's a chance to connect with the people who shaped the Lüneburg Heath and to appreciate the simple beauty of rural life. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Dat ole Huus offers something for everyone. Wilsede itself enhances the experience. The village's car-free status contributes to its tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the thatched-roof houses, and breathe in the fresh air of the Lüneburg Heath. Consider a visit to the Wilsede Milchhalle for regional specialties or browse the museum shop for souvenirs and local products. Dat ole Huus is operated by the Verein Naturschutzpark e.V. (VNP) together with its foundation, the Lüneburg Heath Nature Conservation Park Foundation (Stiftung Naturschutzpark Lüneburger Heide). The museum is affiliated with the larger open-air museum "Freilichtmuseum am Kiekeberg". To fully appreciate the Lüneburg Heath, a visit to Dat ole Huus is essential. It's a place where history comes alive, where traditions are preserved, and where the beauty of rural life is celebrated. Allow yourself ample time to explore the museum, wander through the village of Wilsede, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable corner of Germany.

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