Ommuurdetuin, also known as The Walled Garden, is an agro-ecological organic nursery situated in the historic vegetable garden of King William III, located between Renkum and Wageningen. Established in 1999, the garden is dedicated to cultivating over 500 varieties of edible crops, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, and edible flowers. It operates on principles of vegan agriculture, focusing on biodiversity and soil health without the use of animal manure.
The garden is open to visitors from April to October on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and the first Sunday of each month. A farm shop on site sells fresh, seasonal produce, along with homemade jams, herbal teas, pickled vegetables, and plant materials such as seedlings, seeds, and potato tubers. Adjacent to the shop, a tea terrace offers a pleasant setting to enjoy coffee, fresh herbal teas, and homemade cakes, quiches, or soups while overlooking the garden.
Visitors keen on picking their own produce can find opportunities for self-picking strawberries (typically in early June), and various berries, raspberries, and blackberries (from late June to July). Furthermore, members of the garden’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program have the added benefit of self-picking herbs throughout the season.
The garden hosts a variety of events annually, including an Opening Weekend, Plant Seedling Day, Summer Festival, and Harvest Festival. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the garden’s history, its agro-ecological practices, and the diverse range of crops grown. The site also offers workshops on topics like seasonal cooking and herbs, as well as a comprehensive course in agro-ecology for aspiring farmers. The garden is partially accessible for wheelchairs, and leashed dogs are permitted around the terrace area.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm consistently earns high praise from visitors, who frequently describe it as an exceptionally beautiful and atmospheric destination—a tranquil oasis or a hidden gem nestled within the picturesque Renkum stream valley. Its enchanting historical walled garden is meticulously maintained and boasts remarkable biodiversity, offering a wide array of organic, often non-hybrid, fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Guests relish the opportunity to pick their own produce or purchase fresh items, including potted plants and seeds, directly from the farm shop.
The welcoming ambiance extends to its cozy café, a favourite spot for enjoying delicious coffee, homemade cakes, garden lemonades, and fresh lunches featuring ingredients straight from the garden, with appreciated vegetarian and vegan options available. Many find the farm an ideal place to unwind, whether taking a leisurely stroll through its vibrant plant life or relaxing on benches beneath apple trees, making it a perfect stop during a hike in the surrounding natural beauty. The farm is also lauded for being family-friendly, complete with a trampoline for children, and suitable for group activities or educational workshops.
While the quality and freshness of everything offered receive universal praise, opinions on pricing vary; some consider it expensive, while others deem the cost justified by the organic quality and local sourcing. A notable recurring point of feedback concerns the use of disposable tableware, which some reviewers felt was incongruous with the farm’s sustainable ethos, although management previously clarified this was a temporary measure during the pandemic. There were also isolated comments regarding occasional ‘stiff’ service and a need for improved accessibility on narrow paths and in restroom facilities for visitors with mobility aids. Additionally, some have encountered the farm outside its operating hours, highlighting the importance of checking its Wednesday and Saturday opening times from April to October.
Despite these minor points, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, cementing its reputation as an inspiring and highly recommended destination for those seeking fresh, organic produce and a peaceful connection with nature.