Velen Castle | Place of interest in Münsterland
Important note

Have you spent a holiday in Münsterland in the last 6 months? Then tell us about your stay and win great prizes!

Take part in our guest survey now.

Velen Castle lies on the popular 100 Castles Route
© Münsterland e.V./ Philipp Fölting
A medieval moated castle
Velen Castle

Velen Castle

Velen Castle is a true jewel that sits imposingly in the centre of the town of the same name. The moated castle has adorned the climatic health resort in western Münsterland for several centuries and has undergone numerous architectural changes by renowned architects in different eras.

From manor house to moated castle

The first mention of the former manor house of the Lords of Velen dates back to 1240. It was not until 1426 that the property with the central wing built at that time was given the title of "castle".

Centuries of creative fine-tuning

In the following centuries, the most famous architects of the region gave the moated castle their signature: Master builder Ambrosius von Oelde, Johann Conrad Schlaun , Ignaz Franz von Landsberg-Velen, painter August Reinking, the Düsseldorf garden artist Maximilian Friedrich. All of these master architects designed the harmonious ensemble of the moated castle, from the courtyard front to the south wing and the castle park, until the 19th century.
Although all this art was largely destroyed by a fire in 1931, it was rebuilt with some internal changes. During and after the Second World War, the building served various public purposes. From 1988 to 2018, Schloss Velen was operated as a sports hotel. Today, the building houses a well-equipped seminar and conference centre.

Münsterland Insider Tip

Velen Zoo Velen Zoo
© Münsterland e.V./ Philipp Fölting
Walk through the historic zoo

In the shadow of the castle lies the extensive historic Velen Zoo. The orangery, the forester's lodge and the pheasantry are surrounded by dense woodland and hedges. Quiet paths lead along historical tracks through the zoo and invite you to take beautiful walks.

Learn more

Map | Velen Castle

Service at Velen Castle

  • Gastronomy in the house
  • for groups
  • Overnight stay possible

Velen Castle

Öffnungszeiten vom 01.01. to 31.12.
  • Monday
    closed
  • Tuesday
    closed
  • Wednesday
    closed
  • Thursday
    closed
  • Friday
    closed
  • Saturday
    closed
  • Sunday
    closed

Admission

  • no entry possible:
    0,00 €

4 tips for Velen Castle

  • The best way to explore the most beautiful parts of Westmünsterland is by bike. The 100 Castles Route, the Hohe Mark Nature Park Route and the Flamingo Route cross at Velen Castle.
  • The next historical building awaits you in the Ramsdorf district, Ramsdorf Castle.
  • In the (D)Torfmuseum am Hochmoor in Gescher you can learn more about the history and present of peat.
  • The tourist information centre, which is only a few metres away from the castle, provides you with information about Velen and the surrounding area.

Places of interest around Velen Castle

Properties
Types
I am a green castle

My castle grounds are open to the public. With my nearby green spaces or forests, I offer you a great nature experience.

Close Contact & Info
Close