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Leiden almshouse courtyards — listed monument: Behind unremarkable doors lie dozens of hofjes

Leiden almshouse courtyards

Behind unremarkable doors lie dozens of hofjes: small courtyard gardens surrounded by cottages, built as charity housing for the elderly.

What you see at Leiden almshouse courtyards

Push open a gate on the Middelstegracht, the Kaiserstraat or the Oude Vest and you step into a silent garden with benches and old façades. The Jean Pesijnhofje by the Pieterskerk is the best known.

The history of Leiden almshouse courtyards

Leiden still has around 35 hofjes, founded from the fifteenth century onwards by wealthy citizens and guilds — the social counterpart to the mansions on the Rapenburg.

Visiting Leiden almshouse courtyards: practical tips

They are private homes: visit during the day, keep your voice down and do not photograph windows. Our walking routes lead past the finest examples.

Combine with nearby places

Things to do nearby

Location, opening hours & tickets

Address

Leidse hofjes
Middelstegracht
2312 TW Leiden

13-minute walk from Leiden Centraal

Get directions

Opening hours

Monday09:00–17:00
Tuesday09:00–17:00
Wednesday09:00–17:00
Thursday09:00–17:00
Friday09:00–17:00
Saturday09:00–17:00
Sunday09:00–17:00

The almshouses are lived in: enter quietly and respect the residents.

Opening hours and prices are indicative — check the official website before your visit, especially around public holidays.

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of Leidse hofjes?
Leidse hofjes is open on Mon–Sun 09:00–17:00. Open daily. Hours are indicative; check the official website around public holidays.
How much is a ticket for Leidse hofjes?
No fixed admission price is listed for Leidse hofjes; check the official website for current rates.
Can you buy tickets for Leidse hofjes online?
Tickets for Leidse hofjes are sold at the desk or via the official website. Our tickets page does offer combination tickets for other Leiden attractions.
How do I get to Leidse hofjes?
Leidse hofjes is a 13-minute walk from Leiden Centraal. Arriving by car? Use a city-centre car park and walk the last stretch.
When is Leidse hofjes least busy?
Weekday mornings just after opening and the final hour before closing are the quietest times at Leidse hofjes. School holidays, Sundays and public holidays are busiest.