Saturday, May 9, marks National Mill Day once again, and all four mills in Gouda will open their doors to the public. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., you can take a free tour of the De Roode Leeuw and ’t Slot flour mills, as well as the De Mallemolen and Haastrechtse Molen polder mills. Volunteers will be on hand to provide explanations, show you the inner workings, and answer questions—a perfect opportunity for a family outing or an educational visit for mill enthusiasts.
Which windmills are open and where can you find them:
A round tower mill, originally built around 1727 and later restored; one of the oldest flour mills in Gouda.
A flour mill built in 1832 on the foundations of the old castle of Jacoba van Beijeren; beautifully situated along the Hollandse IJssel.
- De Mallemolen - Eerste Moordrechtse Tiendeweg 3
A ground-sailer and polder mill dating from 1804, restored in 2010 and now operational again for educational purposes and (auxiliary) drainage.
- Haastrechtse Molen - Provincialeweg West 64
A round-tower polder mill dating from 1862 that still drains the polder; one of the few polder mills still capable of grinding grain. Free ice cream between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM; viewing is limited to the area around the mill.
Why windmills are important:
The Netherlands and windmills go hand in hand; they are icons of our landscape and symbols of technology, craftsmanship, and local history. Windmills once ground grain, drained polders, and set the rhythm of villages and towns for centuries. Today, they are living heirlooms: they connect us to past generations, demonstrate how wind and water are harnessed, and inspire craftsmanship and sustainability.
Our country still has over 1,100 windmills and about 100 watermills. Organizations such as De Hollandsche Molen have been working since 1923 to preserve and restore this valuable heritage. Restoration, maintenance, and educational programs require significant funding and the support of volunteers and donors.
This year’s national theme is “Let yourself be blown away.” It’s an invitation to be amazed by the power of the wind and the stories behind the sails. Come feel the windmill turn, smell the wood and flour, and let yourself be blown away by technology and history. Bring your camera for impressive photos and combine visits to several mills for a beautiful cycling or walking route through and around Gouda.
What to expect during your visit:
- Free admission and tours of all four windmills.
- Volunteers will be on hand to explain how it works, its history, and how to maintain it.
- Short guided tours; suitable for families and school groups.
- Combination options: Plan a route and visit several windmills in a single day.
Practical tips
- Date and time: Saturday, May 9, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: The windmills are scattered throughout the area; come by bike or wear hiking shoes
- Accessibility: Windmills often have narrow staircases and are not fully accessible to wheelchairs; please inquire about accessibility options upon arrival.
- Safety: Follow the millers’ instructions and keep children under supervision when the sails are turning and near the stairs.
Visit one or more windmills in Gouda on May 9 and help preserve our windmill heritage. Be amazed by the power of the wind and traditional craftsmanship. Join us in ensuring that future generations can also enjoy the sight of spinning sails and creaking gears. Together, we’ll keep the windmills turning.
Information
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