Westduin War Cemetery - a row of houses sitting on top of a lush green field
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Westduin War Cemetery

4.5
·36 reviews·Den Haag, Netherlands

A serene and respectful memorial ground honoring fallen soldiers, offering a peaceful space for remembrance and reflection.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer visitors, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Westduin War Cemetery - a row of houses sitting on top of a lush green field

Westduin War Cemetery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer visitors, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene and respectful memorial ground honoring fallen soldiers, offering a peaceful space for remembrance and reflection.

4.5
(36 reviews)

"A beautifully maintained cemetery, offering a warm blanket in times of deep sorrow."

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TIP

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting this solemn memorial site. :dress_clothing:

⏰ Verify Hours

Website hours can be misleading; confirm gate closing times before you go. :alarm_clock:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Commonwealth War Graves

Commonwealth War Graves

Various sections

Solemn rows of white headstones honoring fallen soldiers from the Commonwealth forces.

Islamic Section

Islamic Section

Designated area

A distinct section with unique grave markers, offering a different perspective on remembrance.

Peaceful Atmosphere

Peaceful Atmosphere

Throughout the cemetery

A tranquil environment perfect for quiet reflection and remembrance.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visitation

Westduin War Cemetery is a place of remembrance. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit. Many visitors come to honor loved ones, so be mindful of their experience.

Check Opening Hours

While the website may indicate extended hours, actual gate closures can occur earlier, especially outside peak season. Confirm current opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, beautiful scenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting this solemn memorial site. :dress_clothing:

⏰ Verify Hours

Website hours can be misleading; confirm gate closing times before you go. :alarm_clock:

🌿 Be Mindful of Maintenance

Some areas may have varying levels of upkeep; be understanding. :evergreen_tree:

🙏 Quiet Reflection

This is a place for remembrance; keep noise levels low. :pray:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting this solemn memorial site. :dress_clothing:

⏰ Verify Hours

Website hours can be misleading; confirm gate closing times before you go. :alarm_clock:

🌿 Be Mindful of Maintenance

Some areas may have varying levels of upkeep; be understanding. :evergreen_tree:

🙏 Quiet Reflection

This is a place for remembrance; keep noise levels low. :pray:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(36 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Westduin War Cemetery is a beautifully maintained memorial, praised for its peaceful atmosphere and the empathetic staff who offer comfort during difficult times. However, some visitors have noted a decline in maintenance in certain sections, particularly the Islamic area, leading to accessibility issues. There's also a recurring issue with advertised opening hours not always matching actual gate closures.

"I have been walking around this cemetery my whole life, 64 years old, started in a pram.
What a beautifully maintained cemetery it always was, I loved coming there.
Maybe a bit strangely put.
But in recent years it has been deteriorating rapidly, what a lack of maintenance. Some people have to walk through the tall grass themselves to get to the grave of their loved one and you pay a lot of money for that every year.
What are you doing wrong, because what used to be possible, is apparently no longer possible, shame on you"

Jessica Bouman

"Beautiful cemetery on the outskirts of The Hague. My grandfather's grave is here. The cemetery is also very well-maintained."

Marlou Van der meer

"Beautiful surroundings, but it's a real shame that the website indicates the cemetery is open until 9:00 PM today (and almost every day)!
Very disappointing, as we found the doors closed and covered in flowers at 7:00 PM.
Perhaps a small effort could be made to clearly indicate summer/winter time on the website; it would at least save us a huge disappointment!"

M Van Rijn

What People Like

Beautifully maintained
Peaceful atmosphere
Empathetic staff

What People Dislike

Inconsistent maintenance
Misleading hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Westduin War Cemetery is located on the outskirts of The Hague. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include buses that stop close to the cemetery. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near the cemetery, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Depending on your starting point in The Hague, walking might be an option, though it can be a significant distance. Consider public transport or cycling for easier access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Westduin War Cemetery is a memorial site and generally does not have an entrance fee. It is open for visitors to pay their respects. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and the website may not always reflect real-time closures. It's advisable to check current hours before visiting, as gates may close earlier than advertised. Reddit

Yes, visitors have been able to arrange visits on Sundays, including for interments, indicating a degree of flexibility. However, always confirm specific arrangements and hours. Reddit

No, typically no booking is required for general visits to pay respects. However, if you have specific needs, such as arranging an interment, contact the cemetery management directly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Wander respectfully through the different sections, taking time to read the inscriptions and reflect. The layout is generally straightforward, allowing for a peaceful self-guided visit. Reddit

Information on specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers is limited. It's best to assume basic amenities and plan accordingly. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal remembrance, but always be discreet and respectful, especially when photographing graves or other visitors. Avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

While some paths may be paved, certain areas might be uneven or have tall grass, potentially posing challenges. It's advisable to inquire about accessibility if you have specific mobility concerns. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Nature & Surroundings

The cemetery is situated in a pleasant area, offering beautiful surroundings that contribute to its peaceful ambiance. It's a green space conducive to quiet contemplation. Reddit

Being on the outskirts of The Hague, there may be green spaces or coastal areas nearby, though specific attractions are not detailed in visitor feedback. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Westduin War Cemetery offers a quiet space for families to discuss history and remembrance. While it's a solemn place, it can be an educational opportunity to teach children about the importance of honoring those who served. Encourage quiet observation and respectful behavior. Consider focusing on the stories behind the names on the headstones to make it more engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

🕊️ Those Seeking Remembrance

For individuals visiting to honor a loved one, Westduin War Cemetery provides a peaceful and well-intentioned setting. The staff's empathetic approach is particularly noted, offering support during times of sorrow. While maintenance can vary, the core purpose of remembrance is central to the experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Memorial

Westduin War Cemetery serves as a poignant resting place for soldiers who died during various conflicts, primarily World War II. It is meticulously maintained by organizations dedicated to preserving the memory of those who served. The cemetery is divided into sections, with the Commonwealth War Graves being a prominent feature, marked by uniform white headstones. Visitors often find solace in the orderly rows, a testament to the sacrifices made.

Beyond the Commonwealth section, the cemetery also includes an Islamic section, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the fallen. This area features distinct grave markers, offering a different cultural perspective on remembrance. The overall atmosphere is one of profound peace and respect, making it a significant site for historical reflection and personal commemoration. Reddit

Recent visitor feedback indicates a concern regarding the consistency of maintenance in certain areas, particularly the Islamic section. While the cemetery is generally well-kept, some visitors have noted a decline in upkeep, leading to challenges in accessing graves. This feedback highlights the ongoing efforts required to maintain such a significant memorial site and the importance of community support and awareness. Reddit

Visitor Experience and Etiquette

Visiting Westduin War Cemetery is an experience that calls for solemnity and respect. Many visitors come to honor family members or fallen soldiers, and the cemetery's tranquil environment is conducive to quiet reflection. The staff, like Mr. Micha and his colleagues mentioned in reviews, are noted for their empathy and helpfulness, providing comfort during difficult times. This human touch is invaluable for those visiting during periods of grief. Reddit

It's crucial for visitors to be aware of the cemetery's operational hours, as they may not always align with advertised times. Some visitors have been disappointed by finding the gates closed earlier than expected, especially during seasonal changes. Therefore, confirming the exact closing time before your visit is highly recommended to avoid any inconvenience. Reddit

When exploring the grounds, maintain a quiet demeanor and be mindful of others who are there for personal remembrance. While photography is generally allowed for personal use, it should be done discreetly and respectfully, avoiding any intrusion on the solemnity of the site or the privacy of other visitors. Reddit

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