Natuurcentrum Arnhem is a nature and sustainability education organization in Arnhem, with multiple locations including two city farms (Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat and Stadsboerderij Presikhaaf), a visitor center (Molenplaats Sonsbeek), and a heemtuin (native plant garden). The farms are open to the public free of charge and offer a hands-on experience with farm animals, organic farming, and nature exploration.
At Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat, visitors can self-pick flowers in the picking garden (Pluktuin). This is available during the months of August and September, on Wednesday and Friday mornings. The flowers are organically grown and can be gathered as a cheerful bouquet. The farm also grows vegetables and fruit in its own gardens, which are sold in the farm shop, but self-picking is limited to the flower garden during those specific times.
The farms are open daily throughout the year. Stadsboerderij de Korenmaat and Stadsboerderij Presikhaaf are both open from 8:30 to 16:45 every day. The farm shops have separate hours: at Presikhaaf, Monday to Saturday 10:00–16:30, Sunday 13:00–16:30; at Korenmaat, closed Monday, Tuesday to Saturday 10:00–16:00, Sunday 13:00–16:00. The visitor center Molenplaats Sonsbeek has seasonal hours (winter: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00–16:00, Sunday 11:00–16:00; summer: Monday to Sunday 10:00–17:00). The Heemtuin Presikhaaf is open daily from 9:00 to 16:00. All locations are accessible to people with disabilities, and the farms are wheelchair-friendly. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
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.