Molen De Valk

This museum is a treasure - full of history presented in displays, video, reading and photos, and models all with multiple language offerings. I was so enchanted by the development of the mills and loved getting to climb up and experience the inside layout. A wonderful worthwhile visit!

1. 🌾 Built in 1743, De Valk (“The Falcon”) replaced an older mill that had stood on the same site since the late 1500s. 2. 🦅 The name “De Valk” means “The Falcon” — a symbol of sharp vision and strength. 3. 🏗️ Originally, it was a flour mill, grinding grain for local bakeries in Leiden. 4. 🧱 Standing about 29 meters tall, it’s one of the highest traditional windmills in the Netherlands. 5. 🏛️ In 1960, the mill was converted into a museum — the Molenmuseum De Valk, which is still open today. 6. 🏠 Inside, you can explore the miller’s living quarters, preserved exactly as they looked in the 19th century. 7. ⚙️ The machinery still works, and the sails are occasionally set in motion for demonstrations. 8. 🌆 The top offers a stunning panoramic view over the historic city of Leiden. 9. 🎓 It’s located near Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands (founded in 1575). 10. 🪶 De Valk is a national monument (Rijksmonument) and one of Leiden’s most iconic landmarks — often seen on postcards and travel posters.

Very old windmill still functioning to see and understand how it works. You can climb 7 floors through wooden ladders. However, one needs to be careful not to sleep during climbing up and down.

Amazing little museum. Learned so much about Dutch windmill history. Great views over the city as well. Definitely would recommend to all! The stairs are almost ladders so would not recommend for families with young children or anyone with mobility issues

As a travel reviewer, I found Molenmuseum De Valk to be a captivating journey into the past. You will climb up and down the mill’s various levels, exploring how the millers lived and worked inside this impressive structure. The climb is both enlightening and rewarding, culminating in panoramic views that are worth every step. The exhibits are well-curated, providing a comprehensive understanding of the mill’s history and its significance in Dutch culture. While the steep stairs may pose a challenge for some, the experience is undoubtedly enriching and offers a unique perspective of Leiden’s heritage. Tickets cost €6, making it an affordable and memorable visit.

Went there on a Sunday and met these super friendly volunteers working in the mill. They explained to us in details how it works and you can feel the passion they have in maintaining the mill and passing on the heritage. A lot more worth than visiting the other touristic mills. It’s free admission.

Fascinating. I’d previously seen water powered grist mills but this museum certainly broadened my understanding of windmills!! Be warned - to go to the top of the windmill there are many steep ladders to climb, however, if you are able and willing it is very interesting.

Great visit to a mill. There is a video available in different languages and the it’s a nice museum. Not a good idea if you have fear to heights or leathers. The staff is very nice and the view from the top incredible.