Fraeylemaborg

Parts of this small castle, known as a ‘borg’ in Groningen, date back to the 13th century. In the centuries that followed, wealthy and influential families from Groningen lived here and left their mark. This is evident not only from the exterior of the borg, but also from the rich and historic interior, which has been preserved as much as possible over the years. It is as though the last resident, Lady Louise Thomassen à Thuessink van der Hoop van Slochteren, closed the door behind her only yesterday rather than fifty years ago. But she would feel perfectly at home here today, just like the generations of nobles and patricians who came before her.

In days gone by, it was unthinkable that the ‘common man’ could visit the stately rooms of the Fraeylemaborg . Nowadays, it’s no longer so exclusive, and everyone is warmly welcome. The manor is no longer inhabited, but it is very lively thanks to all the visitors and the many activities on offer. Art markets, spring fairs, re-enactments of historic battles. There’s always something going on in and around the Fraeylemaborg . A visit to the stately manor and its estate is fun for all ages. For children, for example, there’s an exciting treasure hunt that winds its way through the manor’s corridors and rooms.

The stately borg is surrounded by an estate that was designed in the 18th century using the gardens of Versailles in France as inspiration. Later, this changed into an English landscape garden with beautiful vistas. In the Slochter forest behind the borg with large, old trees, every season has its own colours, scents and sounds. In spring you will find plenty of Steinzenplanten and in autumn many different kinds of mushrooms. On the historic estate, in addition to the borg, you will find a restaurant and an exhibition area.

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