Tourist information

Historical Museum Hedel

What is the museum?

The Historical Museum Hedel showcases the local heritage and archaeology of Hedel.

The Museum presents the history of the village of Hedel and its surroundings — from the earliest settlements to the modern day.

Facts about the museum

• It is housed in the former town hall of Hedel, built in 1882–1883.
• The building was converted into a museum in 1982.
• The museum is run by the Stichting Hedels Historie (Hedel History Foundation).

Main Themes and Collections

The museum’s collection covers several key themes:

Archaeology & early history:

Artifacts from the first settlements in the area (once known as Hatalle or Hedilla) and discoveries from excavations of Castle Hedel.

The Coin Room:

Hedel once had minting rights — there are 34 original and unused coin stamps on display, along with other minting artifacts.

Agricultural history:

Traditional farming tools and equipment from the 19th and 20th centuries show the region’s rural roots.

Local & modern history:

Photo archives, maps, and stories about World War II, during which Hedel was almost completely destroyed, and about the village’s role as a border and river settlement.

Visitor Information

Address: Voorstraat 2, 5321 GH Hedel, the Netherlands

Opening hours:

• Monday: 19:00 – 22:00
• Saturday: 14:00 – 17:00

Admission: Free of charge

Education: The museum collaborates with local primary schools on projects about the Romans, the Middle Ages, agriculture, and WWII.

Why Visit?

• It offers a fascinating look into the rich history of Hedel, from its medieval castle to post-war reconstruction.
• The Coin Room is a unique feature for a small regional museum.
• Ideal for anyone interested in local history, genealogy, or archaeology.
• The building itself — the old town hall — adds historical charm.

Kleindierenwandelpark

Kleindierwandelpark Hedel is a charming small animal park in the center of Hedel, perfect for a relaxing walk with children or animal lovers.

what to expect?

The park hosts a varied collection of animals, including:

• Llamas
• Emus
• Dutch land goats
• Rabbits and hares
• Various birds, such as white and black swans, peacocks, snowy owls, sacred ibises, crowned cranes, and different types of parrots

Location and Opening Hours

Address: Koningin Wilhelminastraat, 5321 GL Hedel, Netherlands

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Admission: Free, but the park is mainly funded by donations, gifts, and animal adoption programs

Extra information

The park is located near the castle ruins and the Catholic church, making it easy to combine a visit with nearby historical sites.

The animals are lovingly cared for by volunteers. The park is a peaceful place to observe animals up close in a natural environment.

Monument Irene brigade

The Prinses Irene Brigade Monument in Hedel commemorates the sacrifice of 12 soldiers from the Royal Netherlands Brigade "Princess Irene" who lost their lives during the liberation of the town between April 23 and April 26, 1945.

Historical Context

The Princess Irene Brigade was a Dutch military unit formed in the United Kingdom in January 1941, consisting of Dutch soldiers who had escaped the German occupation. They played a significant role in the liberation of the Netherlands during World War II, including the battles near Hedel in April 1945.

Legacy

The Princess Irene Brigade's legacy continues through the Garderegiment Fuseliers Prinses Irene, a regiment of the Dutch Army that honors the traditions and history of the brigade.