How long does it take to walk through the Binckhorst district?

A standard self-guided walk takes between 90 and 120 minutes. The total distance is approximately 3.5 kilometers, depending on how much time you spend photographing the murals.

Is the Binckhorst neighborhood safe to explore independently?

Yes, it is very safe. While it is an industrial area with a 'gritty' look, it is a hub for startups and families. Just be aware of active construction sites and heavy vehicle traffic during work hours.

Can I see the murals in The Hague for free?

Absolutely. All the murals on this walking route are located on public-facing walls and can be viewed for free at any time of day.

What is the best time to visit the Binckhorst?

Weekday afternoons or Saturdays are best. This is when the area's cafes and the Kompaan brewery are most lively, and you can see the creative hubs in action.

Is the Binckhorst walking route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the terrain is flat. While some sidewalks are industrial and may be slightly uneven, it is manageable for strollers and most wheelchairs.

Are there places to eat along the walking route?

Yes, Saturnusstraat is the main artery for food, featuring several cafes and the Kompaan Brewery at the end of the route which serves food.

Is Binckhorst worth visiting if I only have one day in The Hague?

If you enjoy industrial heritage, modern architecture, and street art, it is definitely worth it. It provides a sharp, fascinating contrast to the royal and political landmarks of the city center.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

While many visitors flock to the historic Binnenhof or the grand museums of the city center, those looking for the pulse of the 'New Hague' should head to Binckhorst. This former industrial zone is undergoing a massive transformation, shifting from a landscape of smoke and steel to a vibrant district of creative startups, craft breweries, and world-class murals. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the gritty, artistic soul of a neighborhood that refuses to be polished. You will discover how mid-century factories have been repurposed into hubs for urban farming and digital innovation, all while surrounded by some of the largest street art pieces in the Netherlands. This walking route focuses on the Binckhorst's unique architectural heritage and its status as an open-air gallery. As you explore independently, you will see how the area's industrial past—defined by aviation, cigarette manufacturing, and logistics—provides the perfect canvas for modern street artists. Because this neighborhood is a living laboratory of urban development, the landscape changes almost monthly. New murals appear on construction hoardings, and pop-up galleries find homes in temporary spaces. This makes the Binckhorst one of the most exciting places to travel in the city for those who appreciate raw, unfiltered urban culture. Along this neighborhood stroll, you will encounter landmarks like the iconic Fokker Terminal and the renovated Caballero Fabriek, alongside the bustling Binckhorsthaven. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect industrial backdrop or an architecture buff interested in adaptive reuse, this walking tour The Hague offers a side of the city that most tourists never see. The route concludes at a local brewery, where you can reflect on the area's transformation over a craft beer while watching the sun set over the industrial harbor. Start exploring with Zigway and see why Binckhorst is the most talked-about district in The Hague. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Vast murals by the The Hague Street Art collective

The New Farm, a hub for circular economy and urban farming

The 1950s aviation architecture of the Fokker Terminal

Creative repurposing of the historic Caballero cigarette factory

Industrial harbor views at the Binckhorsthaven

Local craft beer culture at Kompaan Brewery

Tour Stops (6)

The New Farm

Begin your self-guided adventure at The New Farm, a striking example of urban regeneration. This building was once a clothing factory, but today it serves as a hub for the 'circular economy.' As you look up, know that the top floors house one of the largest rooftop greenhouses in Europe. This facility produces vegetables and fish right in the heart of the city, minimizing the carbon footprint of local food. The architecture itself remains functional and raw, a testament to the building's 1950s origins. This stop sets the tone for the Binckhorst: taking the old and making it innovative.

The Hague Street Art

As you move deeper into the district, you will notice that the walls here serve as a massive, ever-changing canvas. The Hague Street Art (THSA) collective has transformed the Binckhorst into an open-air museum. Keep an eye out for the 'Wall of Fame' and larger-than-life murals that often reference the city's identity or industrial past. Because street art is by nature ephemeral, some pieces you see today may be replaced or augmented by new works tomorrow. This area is the epicenter of the local scene, where international artists and local legends come to leave their mark on the neighborhood's concrete skin.

Fokker Terminal

Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Fokker Terminal, a monumental hangar dating back to the 1950s. Originally used by the Fokker aviation school, this space was where aircraft engines were stripped and rebuilt. Notice the wide-span roof and the flood of natural light—features that once served mechanics and now serve as a backdrop for high-tech events and congresses. It is a prime example of how The Hague's industrial heritage is being preserved not through museums, but through active, modern use. The sheer scale of the hangar reflects the mid-century ambition of the Binckhorst as a center of technical excellence.

Skatepark Sweatshop

The spirit of the Binckhorst is often defined by its DIY culture, and nowhere is that more evident than at Skatepark Sweatshop. Housed in a former industrial warehouse, this facility is more than just a place for skaters; it is a community hub that hosts art workshops and events. The exterior is often covered in vibrant graffiti, reflecting the raw energy of the local youth culture. This stop highlights the 'grit' of the area, showing how repurposed industrial spaces provide essential room for subcultures to thrive in an increasingly polished city.

Caballero Fabriek

The Caballero Fabriek is perhaps the most famous success story of Binckhorst's redevelopment. Once a massive cigarette factory, it now houses hundreds of creative startups, architects, and tech companies. While the interior is a maze of modern offices, the exterior maintains its iconic industrial silhouette and signage. As you walk around the perimeter, notice the blend of original brickwork and modern glass interventions. It represents the shift from manual labor to the 'knowledge economy' that has come to define this part of The Hague over the last two decades.

Kompaan Thuishaven & Brewery

Finish your walking route at Kompaan Thuishaven, located right on the water of the Binckhorsthaven. Kompaan is a local success story, started by two friends who wanted to bring craft beer culture to their hometown. The 'Thuishaven' (home port) is built using shipping containers and industrial materials, offering a perfect view of the surrounding warehouses and passing barges. It is the ideal spot to soak in the atmosphere of the harbor. Whether you grab a 'Badgast' or a 'Bondgenoot,' you are tasting the literal flavor of the neighborhood's modern revival.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Binckhorst route is widely considered the best for street art enthusiasts. It features massive murals by the The Hague Street Art collective and offers an industrial backdrop you won't find in the historic center.