Fort Willem playground
A large outdoor playground on the site of a former fort, with over 50 play structures, water play areas and plenty of green space.
Climbing, sliding, scrambling and playing with water: at Fort Willem playground , there’s plenty of space to play outdoors. Scattered across the green grounds are over 50 pieces of play equipment. There are also water play areas for hot days. The location is particularly special. Where children now play, a fort was built over two hundred years ago to defend Maastricht.
Climbing, playing and cooling off
The playground is designed for children up to the age of 12. Nestled amongst the trees and greenery are play structures suitable for various age groups. On hot days, the swimming pool, the smaller paddling pool and the splash park provide a refreshing escape from the heat.
Accessible play has also been taken into account. Various play facilities have been adapted for children with disabilities.
Playing at an old fort
The name Fort Willem refers to Fort King William I, which was built on this site between 1815 and 1818. The fort was intended to protect Maastricht on its north-western side and was named after King William I.
After Maastricht lost its function as a fortified town in 1867, part of the fort was demolished. Not everything disappeared, however. Various sections of the old defences have been preserved to this day. Thus, beneath and around the playground lies a completely different layer of Maastricht’s history.
A place to play for 80 years
After the Second World War, a plan emerged to give the old fortress site a completely different purpose. In 1946, the Futura Foundation was established to offer Maastricht’s children their own place to play and relax. A year later, children were able to enjoy the playground here.
Eighty years on, ‘ Fort Willem playground ’ is still largely run by volunteers. The aim has remained the same: to give children a place to play together outdoors. A site that was once intended to keep people out has thus been transformed into a place where children are very much welcome.
Prices
-
Explanation price
Admission: 2.50 per person.
Use of the swimming pool and the spray park is subject to weather conditions. - Groups from € 2,50
- Cash is available at the entrance and at the cafeteria.
- Payment options Cash, PIN
Features
Discover the surroundings
Tips in the area
Skip map elements