Located where the New Waterway meets the North Sea, Hook of Holland is a harbour town in the south-west corner of the Netherlands. It was settled by workers of the Rijskwaterstaat in the late 19th century while constructing a shipping channel to access the port of Rotterdam.
Things to do in Hoek van Holland
While exploring Hook of Holland, keep an eye out for the Kindertransport statue, which was designed by the Israeli sculptor Frank Meisler in recognition of the Dutch people’s role in helping Jewish children to flee Nazi oppression. After escaping from their home countries during World War II, the children crossed to England from Hook of Holland with the help of local volunteers.
During World War II, Hook of Holland was part of the Atlantic Wall, a German-built defence line that stretched from Norway to Spain. An artillery bunker dating back to 1943 still remains and now a museum about the fortifications and their role in preventing a suspected Allied attack. In addition to exhibiting dioramas and military artefacts, the museum runs volunteer-led tours.
Extending along the North Sea side of Hook of Holland is a wide expanse of sand, which is backed by dunes that provide habitat for native flora. You can stretch your legs on the hiking trail, let loose in the children’s playground or book a lesson with the local surf school. At the southern end of the beach is the Noorderpier where local anglers try their luck.
Getting around Hoek van Holland
Hook of Holland is a 35-minute drive from both The Hague and Rotterdam. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is 30 minutes away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Subway services connect to the Hoek of Holland Haven Station, from where ferries depart for England.