Step into the history of water during Open Monument Day
What can windmills, pumping stations, and dikes tell us? During Open Monument Day on Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13, 2026, we’ll be opening the doors to various windmills and pumping stations in our management area. During these days, everyone will have the chance to explore the rich water heritage of North Holland—whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out.
Discover how water management in North Holland has evolved over time. During Open Monument Day, unique waterworks open their doors and tell the story of both the past and the present. From historic windmills to pumping stations that are still in operation today, each location offers a unique look behind the scenes.
Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. Most windmills and pumping stations are open from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please note: there are no restroom facilities at the locations.
North Polder House
On Sunday, September 13, the historic Noorderpolderhuis in Schermerhorn will open its doors to visitors. This remarkable national monument served as the administrative center of the Schermer for centuries and tells the story of water management in the reclaimed land. Originally, the building served as the home of the millwright who was responsible for maintaining the many mills in the polder. Later, it evolved into an iconic water board building.
Visitors can explore the charming building with its opulent interior, as well as the adjacent carpenter’s shed. There, they’ll find a unique attraction: a historic bowling alley, considered one of the oldest in the Netherlands.
Lely pumping station
On Saturday, September 12, the Lely Pumping Station in Wieringerwerf will open its doors exclusively for Open Monument Day. During a guided tour, visitors will have a unique opportunity to take a look behind the scenes of this impressive monument, which has played a key role in the water management of the Wieringermeer for nearly a century.
Please note: Registration for the Lely Pumping Station is required
During Open Monument Day, the Lely Pumping Station will be open exclusively to visitors who have registered in advance. Admission is free, but the number of spots per tour is limited.
Steam Engine Museum
On Saturday, September 12, the Dutch Steam Engine Museum in Medemblik will be open to visitors free of charge. The museum is located in the former Vier Noorder Koggen steam pumping station, one of the oldest intact steam pumping stations in the Netherlands. Here, you can discover how steam power was used in the past to keep polders dry and control water levels.
During Open Monument Day, the past literally comes to life: the machines are running and demonstrate how the pumping station played a key role in North Holland’s water management for over a century. A unique experience for anyone interested in technology, history, and water heritage.
