Borg Verhildersum

Borg Verhildersum in Leens offers a rich historical experience in Northwest Groningen, close to the Wadden Sea. This unique estate brings the story of nineteenth-century rural life in the Hogeland region vividly to life. The manor itself functions as a museum, providing insight into the region's layered past.

Explore the world of the old nobility, the newer residents of the borg, the rise of the farming class, and the daily lives of agricultural laborers. The estate also includes a traditional orchard and heritage cattle breeds such as Lakenvelders and Blaarkoppen that still graze the grounds.

A highlight of the estate is the original laborer’s cottage, inhabited until 1959. You can also visit the historic farmhouse, now a museum restored to reflect the summer of 1870 — just before the major shift in agricultural mechanization. The interior paints a powerful picture of the tough conditions of rural life in the past.

End your visit with a stop at the charming museum shop located in the old coach house, where you’ll find local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs. Don’t forget to enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant Ons Schathoes, known for its welcoming atmosphere and regional dishes.