The park utilizes a functional peat railway that was historically used to transport cut peat to factories.
It demonstrates the specific 'Drentse' method of peat harvesting, which involved creating extensive canal networks.
The museum includes a complete, reconstructed peat-cutter’s village illustrating the primitive living conditions of the 1800s.
Traditional crafts such as wooden shoe making are periodically demonstrated by staff in period clothing.
The peat bog landscape surrounding the site is part of the Great Moor, a massive transboundary wetland extending into Germany.
Veenpark is one of the largest open-air museums in the Netherlands, focusing on the history of peat extraction and life in the Veenkoloniën. The site features reconstructed historic villages, peat huts, and peat-cutting machinery to illustrate how the landscape was reclaimed. Visitors can travel through the park via narrow-gauge trains and peat boats that navigate the canals. The museum grounds include original peat-cutters' dwellings and functional traditional workshops. It serves as an active living history museum where the harsh reality of the 19th-century peat industry is preserved. Peat extraction shaped the unique topography and social structure of this region of Drenthe.
From the deck of the canal boat as it passes the reconstructed historic peat villages.
Take both the narrow-gauge train and the canal boat ride to see the full extent of the park.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the paths through the peat-cutting areas can be uneven or damp.
Plan your visit to allow time for the demonstrations, which are scheduled throughout the day.
Attempting to see the entire park on foot without using the provided train or boat transport, as the site is very expansive.
The park is a seasonal attraction and is typically closed during the winter months; check for specific opening dates before arrival.
