D’Ursel Castle in Bornem

Once the summer residence of a distinguished family, today this spot is a peaceful haven in lush surroundings. D’Ursel Castle in Bornem is one of the most beautiful castles around Antwerp. Explore the castle during events and admire the unique collection of colourful chintzes (printed cotton fabrics). From 31 May 2026, the portraits in the Talking Heads exhibition will share their fascinating stories. Round off your visit with an overnight stay in the former painter’s studio and enjoy sweeping views across the extensive park.

Plan your visit

Country retreat of the noble d’Ursel family

In Hingene, a village in Bornem some 30 kilometres from Antwerp, stands a splendid neoclassical country house: D’Ursel Castle. It’s quite a sight, with its ochre-yellow façades. For almost 400 years, this was the country retreat of the noble d’Ursel family. Each summer, the duke would travel here with his family and household staff. Today, it has been beautifully restored and is open to visitors. Just a stone’s throw from the impressive River Scheldt, you pass through monumental gates to enter the D’Ursel estate. Long paths lead you past ornamental ponds and through ancient tree-lined avenues. With a bit of luck, you might spot a squirrel, deer, or bird of prey. The vast lawns are perfect for a relaxed picnic while children let off steam.

A yellow castle with tall towers and large windows is reflected in a surrounding moat. The sky is blue with scattered clouds, and trees are visible nearby.

Jurjen Drenth

Unique collection

In the gatehouse, you can discover more about the rich history of the estate. A brochure (also available in English) guides you along the duke’s favourite walk. The gatehouse is also the starting point for two escape games, offering a different way to explore the park.

The castle itself can be visited during exhibitions, concerts, guided tours, and other events. The interior is particularly striking for its walls, which are hung with Chinese wallpaper and chintzes— brightly printed cotton fabrics. Together, they form a unique collection unmatched in scale in any other European castle. From 31 May 2026, you can also experience Talking Heads, an opulent portrait exhibition with stories to tell.

Veggiewayfarer

Overnight stay on the castle estate

Would you like to linger a little longer on this magnificent estate? You're in luck: you can stay overnight. In 1878, Duchess Antonine — a talented amateur artist — had a painter’s studio built here. Today, the building has been fully restored and serves as a stylish holiday home. From the first-floor drawing room, you can enjoy stunning views over the park.

Veggiewayfarer

De Notelaer Pavilion

Just a stone’s throw from the elegant D’Ursel Castle, you’ll find another charming sight; De Notelaer Pavilion, on the banks of the River Scheldt. This picturesque gem once served as a hunting lodge and a venue for festive receptions for the castle’s residents. Today, it offers stylish heritage accommodation where you can also stop for a bite to eat and a drink.

A rustic abandoned house stands beside a grassy path near a lake under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds, evoking a serene, nostalgic mood.

Plan your visit

D’Ursel Castle
Wolfgang d’Urselstraat 9
2880 Hingene (Bornem)
+32 3 820 60 10
www.kasteeldursel.be

Opening times
The park is open to the public free of charge from sunrise to sunset. The castle itself is open during events or by appointment for group visits. From 31 May 2026, the Talking Heads exhibition can also be visited freely on Sunday afternoons. You can book an overnight stay in the former painter’s studio for a minimum of two nights, and it accommodates up to eight guests. To book, please send an e-mail to info@kasteeldursel.be.

Veggiewayfarer

How do you get to D’Ursel Castle?

No bike of your own? No problem! Rent a bike in Antwerp. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to discover the city and its green surroundings.
Discover the most beautiful spots along the Scheldt aboard DeWaterbus. You can take your bike for free. In Antwerp, hop on at the Steenplein stop. DeWaterbus calls at Kruibeke, from where you can continue by bike or public transport to Bornem and then on to Hingene. Hingene Church is about 250 metres from the castle.

Directions to D’Ursel Castle (Google Maps)