Initially, people in Aalsmeer were dedicated to growing trees and small fruit such as strawberries. At the end of the 19th century, people started to grow flowers outdoors and greenhouse cultivation followed shortly after. The name Historical Garden refers to the fact that Aalsmeer growers used to call their nursery a ‘garden’.
Old rose varieties in the Historical Garden in Aalsmeer
In the rose greenhouses at the Historical Garden in Aalsmeer, you can smell the wonderful scent of old rose varieties. Walking through the garden you get to know a little about the lilac culture, with which Aalsmeer has become so familiar. And you will be amazed by the varied collection of boxwood trees – or topiary trees – that are now popular again. In addition to flowers and plants, this horticultural museum in Aalsmeer also houses old tools and equipment, such as lilac and strawberry cutters. A scale model gives you a good overview of the layout of the Historical Garden and the audio tour gives you clear insight into the wonderful world of Aalsmeer horticultural history.
Buy at the auction clock from 1930
Experience the excitement of buying flowers and plants ‘at auction’ at the beautiful ‘Jugendstil’ auction clock from 1930. Every last Saturday of the month – from mid-April to mid-September – there is an auction in the Historical Garden in Aalsmeer. The auctioneer can organise a special auction session at a different time for groups.
Enjoy our Tuinhuis restaurant terrace or take a boat trip
After your visit to the Historical Garden in Aalsmeer, you can relax in the picturesque Tuinhuis with its charming terrace by the water. Come for a cup of coffee, a tasty lunch or a high tea. It is certainly worthwhile discovering the Westeinderplassen by boat. The skipper tells fascinating stories about the history of Aalsmeer and its lakes. He calls it a “Pure Aalsmeer Experience”. And it certainly is!
