If you are looking for a cozy spot for a family holiday in Ostend, you should definitely visit the De Lange Schuur Children's Farm (Kinderboerderij De Lange Schuur). This charming combination of a petting zoo and an educational center is located in the picturesque Schorre area on the southern outskirts of the city. Here, away from the city's hustle and bustle, a unique atmosphere has been created for discovering rural life in Belgium.
De Lange Schuur Children's Farm. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI
The primary mission of this establishment is to help children and young people rediscover their connection with nature. The farm's professional staff cares for the animals with great love and strives to make the learning process interactive and exciting. This is a place where a child's emotional development and cognitive skills are enhanced through direct contact with the farm's friendly inhabitants.
The farm grounds are exceptionally well-maintained and welcoming. Modern buildings are harmoniously integrated into the naturalistic landscape, creating ideal living conditions for various types of farm animals. For little guests, it's a great opportunity to see those they have only encountered in books before in their natural environment.
Contacts
To clarify visiting details or organize group tours, you can contact the farm administration directly. The staff is always ready to help and answer visitors' questions.
The main reason visitors come here is for interactive encounters with animals. You can feed curious goats, pet fluffy rabbits, and observe the daily lives of the farm's inhabitants. Animal feeding times are particularly memorable, as the farm's activity reaches its peak and children can feel like real farmers.
In addition to interacting with the fauna, De Lange Schuur regularly hosts educational lectures and workshops. Staff members share interesting facts about animal habits and the basics of caring for them, turning a simple walk into an educational adventure. This fosters a sense of responsibility and a genuine love for the world around them in children.
For those who just want to relax, the farm offers scenic green areas perfect for a family picnic. While children are busy playing in the fresh air, adults can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Before visiting, it is recommended to check the official farm website so as not to miss information about special seasonal programs and festivals.
Getting There
Getting to the farm from the center of Ostend by car is quite simple. Head towards the N34 highway, then follow the N8 towards the city center. After about 2 kilometers, merge onto the R31, take the exit for Oosteroever, and turn onto Stuiverstraat. Parking is available at building number 599, though a small fee may apply depending on the season.
For those who prefer public transport, the bus is an excellent option. From Ostend railway station, take bus #3 or #4 towards Oosteroever. Get off at the "Stuiverstraat" stop and walk for about 5 minutes. The ticket price is approximately 2 euros.
If you enjoy walking, the route from the city beach takes about 30 minutes. The path runs northwest along the coast and then across the R31 road directly to the farm. You can also use a taxi from the city center for the fastest and most comfortable transfer straight to the complex gates.
Ближайший город: Ostend
History & Facts
De Lange Schuur Children's Farm is not just a rural corner, but a carefully designed architectural project. The renowned Maarten Dobbelaere bureau created this space commissioned by the Ostend municipal authorities. The project was implemented by the Verstraete company, which realized the concept of a modern educational center in harmony with nature.
The main goal of creating the farm was the desire to reconnect urban children with agriculture. In the context of rapid urbanization in Belgium, such projects are becoming vital, allowing the younger generation to see farm life from the inside rather than just on the pages of textbooks. This place has become an important part of the city's cultural life, combining educational goals with leisure.
Today, De Lange Schuur is very popular with both locals and tourists. Reviews eloquently speak of the success of this initiative: visitors highly rate the well-maintained territory and the quality of educational programs, giving the farm an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Over the years, it has become one of the region's favorite family attractions.
Time Needed
To leisurely explore all corners of the farm and interact with its inhabitants, experienced travelers recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time for children to play, feed the animals, and take part in one of the educational programs.
If you plan to have an outdoor picnic or visit the farm during special events, you can easily spend a whole day here. The grounds are perfect for a relaxed holiday, so you definitely won't want to rush.
Working Hours
De Lange Schuur Children's Farm hospitably opens its doors to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. This convenient daily schedule makes it easy to plan a visit during the week as well as on a Saturday or Sunday.
To fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid large crowds, it is best to come in the morning. Before your trip, it is recommended to check the information on the official website, as there may be changes to the schedule related to holidays or private educational events.
Nearby
Ostend is a city with a rich history and many interesting locations. Exploring the surroundings after visiting the farm will help you get a fuller impression of this coastal region and enjoy its diverse architecture and entertainment.
Below are some interesting places located near the farm: