Family Park Nienoord

Family Park Nienoord is a leisure park in the grounds of the Nienoord estate at Leek, in the province of Groningen, and it is aimed squarely at families with children from toddlers to early teens. The estate itself is a country house with parkland and woodland on the edge of the village, and the park uses part of that setting, so that play and attractions are set among trees and open lawns rather than on a flat car park. It is described as having a large number of attractions, with more than eighty play structures and rides reported, spread over several hectares.

The park follows the pattern of Dutch family parks, with an emphasis on active play and gentle rides instead of thrill rides. Climbing frames, slides, trampolines, pedal vehicles, a miniature railway and water play areas fill the grounds, and there are paddocks with farm animals such as goats and rabbits, where small children can meet the animals. The miniature train, which circles the park, is a favourite with younger visitors, and the water playground is popular on warm days, so bring swimwear and a towel. Picnic areas and cafes allow families to stay for several hours.

Practical details change from season to season. The park normally opens on certain days and at certain times, with longer hours at weekends and in school holidays, and ticket prices differ for adults and children of different ages, so check the current information on its website before you set off. Parking is usually plentiful, and the park can be reached by car or by bicycle, which is a popular way to travel in the flat Groningen countryside. Wet weather reduces the number of things to do, as most attractions are outdoors.

The estate has more to offer. Museum Nienoord, devoted to horse-drawn carriages, is one of the best known collections of its kind in the country, and the parkland of Landgoed Nienoord is good for a walk. Concerts and events in the grounds, together with the Reformed Church in the village, make up the cultural side of the visit, and the cultural events held in Leek, including fairs and festivals, are announced locally. The city of Groningen is about twenty minutes away by car.

The park suits families with young children and groups of friends with children. Plan for three to five hours, bring a change of clothes for the water play and set aside time for the museum if you want to see the carriages.