Oudewater

Getting to Oudewater

The N228 passes right through Oudewater on its way from Utrecht to Gouda, and both cities are about a 20-minute drive away. Alternatively, take the A12 highway from Utrecht, and exit Nieuwerbrug. This route may be just a few minutes faster, depending on which part of Utrecht you're coming from, but it's also less scenic.

Worth seeing

There are about 120 registered monuments in the city, and most can be found in the center, on the market square and in the surrounding streets. Wandering around is one of the main attractions, as there's something cosy and historic about this place.

1. 01
   Waag

   The 15th-century Waag, or weigh house, is also called the "witches' scale", as it was used to weigh women and determine whether or not they possessed witchcraft in the 16th to 18th century.

2. 02
   City Hall

   The town's city hall was extensively renovated and renewed in 1887, but was built as early as 1588.

3. 03
   Touwmuseum 'De Baanschuur'

   This small museum has a nice collection on the product that was so vital for Oudewater's development: rope.

Things to do

The town is fairly small but the surroundings are quite lovely to explore too, and known as the "green heart" of the wider region. Hiking and biking are popular and routes are widely available. Many use Oudewater as a stopover during a day's cycling or walking, enjoying lunch or a drink on one of the town's terraces before moving on. Other fun activities include: Boat trip.

Where to eat

The market square is the beating heart of the town, and when the weather allows, local establishments set up several outdoor terraces for food and drinks. De Rendezvous Bontekoe, Wijdstraat 25,. This casual place serves French inspired dishes. You can either opt to have them in the form of a normal menu, or as a tapas menu, for which the same (but more) dishes come in small portions.

Getting around Oudewater the local way