This nature center in Arnhem operates across multiple locations, including two city farms, Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat and Stadsboerderij Presikhaaf, as well as a visitor center, a native plant garden, and a historic water mill. It is dedicated to fostering learning and discovery about nature and sustainability, aiming to connect individuals with their local natural environment through a diverse array of educational programs and activities.
Both city farms adhere to biological and nature-inclusive agricultural practices, holding SKAL and Children’s Farm certifications. Guests can interact with farm animals, enjoy play areas, and participate in guided tours that offer insights into farm life and food production.
Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat is home to fruit orchards and children’s gardens. During August and September, a dedicated picking garden (Pluktuin) at Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat allows visitors to self-pick cheerful, unsprayed flowers on specific mornings. Vegetables and fruits harvested from these gardens and orchards during peak season are available for purchase in the on-site farm shops.
The farm shops, situated at both Stadsboerderij Presikhaaf and Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat, provide a selection of honest, local, and organic products. These include fresh vegetables (much of which is grown on their own land and supplemented with regional organic produce), fruits, meat from their own animals, eggs, local honey, tea, jam, cheese, house-pressed juices, organic ice cream, and flour. The center also offers extensive educational programs for schools, guidance on creating green schoolyards, and various volunteering opportunities.
What visitors say
De Hooijmaat is widely celebrated as a charming city farm, offering a delightful and relaxing experience that appeals to both children and adults. It is consistently praised for its extensive and well-maintained playground, which many reviewers highlight as a major draw, featuring various play equipment, sandpits, pedal tractors, and even a mud obstacle course and a discovery forest with climbing routes. Recent updates to the playground have also been positively noted.
The farm itself provides a rich environment for children to engage with a diverse array of animals, including cows, goats, sheep, pigs, guinea pigs, turkeys, pigeons, and chickens. Visitors appreciate the opportunities for observation and learning about farm life, with some even mentioning hands-on experiences like helping the farmer or petting animals. The animal enclosures are generally described as clean and well-cared for.
Complementing these attractions is a cozy on-site restaurant and teahouse, often referred to as “De Hooijmaat” itself. This establishment serves a good selection of food, including popular sandwiches, delicious coffee, and highly recommended apple pie and ice cream, often using locally sourced or organic ingredients. The staff frequently receives accolades for their friendliness, enthusiasm, and helpfulness, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The farm also features a small shop selling local products. Many appreciate the spacious layout, ample seating, and the overall peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for families to unwind.
While the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, a few minor areas for improvement were mentioned. Some visitors experienced disappointment when the restaurant or certain services were unexpectedly closed for private events, particularly on busy days, suggesting clearer communication on operational hours. There were isolated comments regarding perceived high prices for certain items like ice cream, occasional slow service, or issues with restroom cleanliness. Additionally, a couple of reviewers noted a desire for more shade for animals during hot weather or more consistent opportunities for direct animal interaction. Despite these infrequent concerns, the consensus is that De Hooijmaat offers a fantastic, educational, and fun outing for families.