Stadspark

Tilburg is a city in North Brabant with an industrial past in wool and textiles, and like many industrial cities of the Netherlands it has green spaces that were laid out in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries to give working people somewhere to walk. The park is of the landscape type that was typical of the period, with lawns, mature trees, ponds and winding paths. Visitors planning a specific route should check the local tourist information.

The English landscape style, which was fashionable in the Netherlands from the late eighteenth century, aimed to create a picturesque, naturalistic scene, with curving paths, groups of trees, open meadows and water, arranged so that every turn gave a fresh view. Parks in this style often include a pavilion or a small building for refreshments and events, a pond or lake with a bridge or an island, and benches placed at views. A city park of this type is used for jogging, dog walking, picnics, playgrounds and informal events, and it is generally open at all times and free to enter. Birds such as ducks, coots, herons and parakeets are easy to see, and mature trees give shade in summer and colour in autumn.

Tilburg's other attractions give the park a context. The TextielMuseum, in a former wool factory, is the city's best known museum and explains how the textile industry shaped it, with a working textile lab where designers and visitors can try looms and machines. Sint-Brigidakerk, St. Brigid's Church, is a notable church, the Markt is the main square, and Tilburg University's campus is a lively quarter. Wilhelminapark, another park in the city, is a short ride away, and the city's cultural life is strong, with festivals and a lively music scene.

The city is well connected by train to Utrecht, Breda and Eindhoven, and cycling is the easiest way to get around. A visit to a park is a good way to take a break between museum visits and to see how the people of Tilburg spend their free time. Early morning and early evening are best for walks, when the light is soft and the park is quiet.

The park suits families, joggers, walkers and anyone who wants a relaxed hour outdoors. Bring a picnic and check the weather, and combine it with the TextielMuseum and the city centre for a full day in Tilburg.