Chateau EsquelbecqChateau Esquelbecq 3
©Chateau Esquelbecq 3
Esquelbecq Castle An ode to Flemish architecture

Esquelbecq Castle

A unique historical heritage

Located in the picturesque Flemish village of Esquelbecq, this 17th-century château plunges you into a world of elegance, heritage and serenity.

Surrounded by a moat, formal gardens and extensive wooded grounds, Château d’Esquelbecq is a living testimony to the Flemish art of living.

Chateau EsquelbecqChateau Esquelbecq
©Chateau Esquelbecq

In the heart of nature A jewel of Flanders

With its typically Flemish architecture and passionately redesigned gardens, the castle, built around 1606 on the ruins of an ancient medieval fortress, has witnessed many historic events.

The castle of Esquelbecq has a harmonious silhouette: its red bricks, gabled roofs and moats form a picturesque, well-preserved ensemble. The U-shaped main building opens onto an elegant inner courtyard, surrounded by outbuildings and carefully tended parkland.

The parklands, covering around 7 hectares, have been extensively restored. It includes a formal garden, a historic kitchen garden, an orchard and a plant maze inspired by 17th-century models.

It’s a peaceful place to stroll, relax and discover the local flora.

A place for culture and encounters A not-to-be-missed visit to Inner Flanders

Since its renovation, the château has hosted a number of cultural events, including exhibitions, concerts, book markets and garden festivals. It is also home to an independent bookshop and a resource centre dedicated to Flemish literature and regional history.

Open to the public for guided tours and seasonal events, the Château d’Esquelbecq is an essential stop-off point for heritage lovers. Its peaceful atmosphere, architectural beauty and rich cultural programme make it a popular destination for families, history buffs and walkers.

Frequently asked questions
  • Can you visit the gardens at the château?

    The gardens of the château are open to the public:

    • From 10 May to 8 July and from 1 September to 19 October 2025: only at weekends from 2pm to 6pm.
    • From 9 July to 31 August 2025: Wednesdays to Sundays and public holidays from 2pm to 6pm.

    Weekday rates (payment by credit card, cheque or cash accepted) :

    • Garden only: €5 / person
    • Reduced rate : 3 € Free for children under 12

    Dogs on a lead accepted outside only.

  • Can you visit the castle?

    Tours of the château’s interior are only open at weekends, on Saturdays and Sundays from 29 May 2025, from 3pm to 6pm.

    Prices (payment by credit card, cheque or cash accepted) :

    • Visit gardens + château: €10 / person (weekends only)
    • Reduced rate: €7 / Free for under-12s

    Dogs on a lead are allowed outdoors only.

  • Where is the château located?

    Esquelbecq Castle
    10 Place Alphonse Bergerot
    59470 Esquelbecq

  • What is the château's programme?

    To access the Château’s programme: www.chateau-esquelbecq.com

Favourites
EsquelbecqThe Thiriez brewery

At Brasserie Thiriez, hops have been a family affair since 1996. Daniel started it all by brewing the first beers 28 years ago. Today it’s Clara who carries on the tradition with the whole team.

All our beers are produced in accordance with our values: quality, sharing, diversity, pleasure and taste.

Book your visit

Brasserie Thiriez Team Source Tourinsoft 2025Four people enjoying a glass of beer in front of stainless steel barrels at the Brasserie Thiriez
©Brasserie Thiriez Team Source Tourinsoft 2025
Brasserie Thiriez Team Source Tourinsoft 2025Four people enjoying a glass of beer in front of stainless steel barrels at the Brasserie Thiriez
©Brasserie Thiriez Team Source Tourinsoft 2025
EsquelbecqEsquelbecq heritage

Discover this village, voted ” Village Préféré des Français” in 2023 , and its rich heritage on a captivating guided tour. With its castle, listed church and charming little streets, every step tells its own story. Let yourself be seduced by the authenticity and friendliness of the village.

Join us for an unforgettable immersion in Flemish culture! To book your guided tour

Esquelbecq Book VillageNail fixed on cobblestones with Village du Livre signage
©Esquelbecq Book Village
Eglise D'Esquelbecq 2Eglise D'Esquelbecq 2
©Eglise D'Esquelbecq 2
EsquelbecqLa Plaine au Bois

During Operation Dynamo, the British troops in position were ordered to delay the German advance towards Dunkirk. On 28 May 1940, a battle broke out between British and German troops…

La Plaine au Bois is a preserved memorial site, listed on the European 39-45 Memorial Trails and open to the public 24/7.

Visit the museum at La Plaine au Bois

Site De La Plaine Au Bois 1Site De La Plaine Au Bois 1
©Site De La Plaine Au Bois 1
La Plaine Au Bois site - the stele and the viewpointLa Plaine Au Bois site
©La Plaine Au Bois site