Til Burg

Hotels Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps
TILBURG
Spring/Summer 2013
Enjoy your
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
of Tilburg In Your Pocket
Day Trips
Discover Loon op Zand,

Kaatsheuvel & De Moer
Tilburg Noord
See what lies north of

the city centre
N05 - 2.50
www.inyourpocket.com
CONTENTS
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
Contents
Foreword
E4
A few words from the editor
Arriving in Tilburg
E5
How to get to your hotel
The Basics
E6
Getting to grips with Tilburg
History
E8
The citys past on two pages
Culture & Events E10

Concerts, galleries and events
Where to stay
E16
Beds for backpackers and business executives
Restaurants
E20
The Dutch have much more than cheese to offer
Cafs E27
Classic cafs, bakeries and high tea
Nightlife E28
Bars, pubs, clubs and cafs
The municipality of Loon consists of the three villages of

Loon op Zand, Kaatsheuvel and De Moer. The town hall
is situated in Kaatsheuvel, but each village has its own
unique character. Discover rural landscapes, protected
marshes and dunes and historic architecture on p.E46.
Photo courtesy of the municipality of Loon op Zand
Sightseeing
E34
Museums, churches and other sights
Getting around
E40
Trains, buses and taxis
Directory
Shopping
Lifestyle & Sports
Football: Willem II
E42
E44
E44
List of small features

Cover story
E4
Message from the Mayor
E5
National holidays
E6
Tilburg Noord
E15
Tilburg Fair
E21
2013 becomes The Year 013 E23
Memories of war
E35
Loon op Zand, Kaatsheuvel
and De Moer
E46
Dutch words and phrases
E48
Maps & Index
Dont be content with what the city centre of Tilburg has to

offer. Do some exploring in the North and find a fantastic
landscape park and loads of interesting cafs in Tilburg
Noord. Read more on p.E15
www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com
Old town street register

Old town map
Tilburg map
Greater Tilburg map
Netherlands map
E48
E49
E50
E51
E52
Spring/Summer 2013
E3
E4
FOREWORD
Since its conception, Netherlands In Your Pocket has
expanded to five cities, each with its own full-sized guide.
s-Hertogenbosch was first, followed soon after by Utrecht,
while Amsterdam, Tilburg and Sittard-Geleen made
their debut in 2011. Although some of these cities may
seem like surprising choices to some readers, its In Your
Pockets aim to be your personal guide to Hollands undiscovered gems. This year our conquest continues within
the country with new guides to Groningen and Bommelerwaard and far beyond the borders of the Netherlands in
the former Dutch colonies of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaao,
otherwise known as the ABC islands.
By the time you read these words, in spring or
summer, the city of Tilburg will be in full blossom. Indeed,
the city is alive and you can sense it on every corner and
on every square and the thousands of local and international students that call this university town home only
enhance this feeling by making Tilburgs city centre roar
with life. Any visitor will find a lively dining scene, wild nightlife and a vibrant calendar of cultural events from concerts
to art exhibitions, not to mention a hip air of freedom and
vitality.
In this fifth edition of Tilburg In Your Pocket we offer a
varied and colourful range of independent reviews written
by our own researchers. Once again, theyve worked overtime to visit every single restaurant, bar, hotel, theatre,
museum and pub to bring you unbiased information. Have
a great summer with Tilburg In Your Pocket!
Newsstand
The In Your Pocket series of guide booklets have ...
become a European publishing phenomenon.
International Herald Tribune
Cover story
If you enjoy enormous fairs, you cant
afford to miss the Tilburgse Kermis,
shown on the cover of this issue. The
entire city centre will be closed to make
way for a 4.5km-long stretch of over
230 fairground attractions. Each year,
more than a million people visit this
colorful event. The Tilburg Fair will be
held from July 19 until July 28.
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
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Editorial
Editorial team Theo Leerintveld
(theo.leerintveld@inyourpocket.com) &
Martins Zaprauskis
Contributors Frank van Bergen,
Charlotte Backx, Joep van Aert, Peter
van Lent (historie) & Sanne Stenvert
Researchers Theo Leerintveld & Bob
Oostelbos
Layout & Design Martins Zaprauskis
Photos Theo Leerintveld & Gemeente
Tilburg unless otherwise noted
Cover photo Persbureau Van
Eijndhoven
Sales & Circulation
Advertising Theo Leerintveld,
theo.leerintveld@inyourpocket.com,
tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46
Distribution Theo Leerintveld &
ASEGA Media
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ARRIVING IN TILBURG
These days any city in the Netherlands is relatively easy
to reach and that includes Tilburg. The central station
borders the city centre, while the smaller train stations
give access to the suburbs. From the two airports (Schiphol and Eindhoven) it takes an hour and a half or an hour
respectively to reach Tilburg by train. The public transport
system is fairly clear and well organised, however, many
people prefer to walk to the city centre. Changing money
is possible at the airports, but also at the central train
station in Tilburg.
By bus
Since travel by train is very efficient in the Netherlands, there
are no international bus connections in Tilburg. Veolia is a
company that provides bus service in and around the city.
When you exit the central train station, the bus station is to
your right. To find out everything you need to know about
routes and times, www.journeyplanner.9292.nl is the best
place to look.
By car
Tilburg can be easily reached via motorway A58 or other
provincial roads. In and around the city centre there are seven
indoor car parks; along the roads into the centre electronic
signs will show you the right direction and free spaces available. You pay when you exit the car park again. For drivers
with physical limitations there are disabled parking spaces
available at the indoor car parks at Koningsplein, Tivoli and
Pieter Vreedeplein. On many streets in the city centre, and
at the outdoor car parks, youll find ticket machines. Pay in
advance and place the ticket on the dashboard in a visible
place. The indoor parking options are cheaper.
By plane
If you arrive at either Schiphol or Eindhoven airport Tilburg
is only an hour away by public transport. A single trip from
Schiphol by train costs about 15, and from Eindhoven
Airport the bus followed by the train will cost you about 10.
Both routes will take just over an hour of travelling and youll
arrive at the Tilburg Central Station. Check www.9292ov.nl
for more information on schedules and prices.
The bus and train journey from Eindhoven Airport to
Tilburg costs about 9.00. A single train ticket from Schiphol
costs 17.00 and the journey takes about an hour and a half.
Be aware that when you travel from Schiphol to Tilburg, you
will have to change onto the train to Venlo in Rotterdam,
within 10 minutes of your arrival. From the central station
in Eindhoven you take the train that is headed for Den Haag
(The Hague). You can find more information on journeyplanner.9292.nl.
Tourist information
VVV Tilburg B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 34, tel. (+31)
90 02 02 08 15, vvv@tilburg.nl, www.vvvtilburg.

nl. Buy typical Tilburg souvenirs here such as the
leesplengske (horn book), real Kruikenstad items and
Willem II products. Everything youll need to know about
the city is also available here and the friendly staff will
do everything they can to inform you about what to see
and do in Tilburg. In the back of the room you can even
email your own picture in a postcard of Tilburg to your
friends and loved ones. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon
13:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. J
Message from the Mayor

Tilburg is vibrant, enterprising, full
of initiatives. Pleasant to reside
and live in. Rural and worldly at the
same time, a place where small
villages have strung together into a
green city. A city that is more than
worth visiting.
In this Tilburg In Your Pocket
guide you will find the most important places and attractions of
Tilburg. When you browse through
this guide, you will discover that
the atmosphere of Tilburg is young, quirky, and slightly
diverse, because we are a real student city, with Tilburg
University and six art schools right in the centre of the
city. Students are trained there as dancers, rock musicians, even as musical stars. The various theatres and
venues like 013 offer them the opportunity to showcase
their talents to a large audience. So if you are looking for
a cultural night out, Tilburg is the place to be.
The city of course has much more to offer. An
extensive range of shops, with surprising shops in the
Wander Area. Internationally renowned museums, such
as De Pont museum of contemporary art. Also wander
around the Railway Zone, the old train station area full
of industrial buildings where trains were once serviced.
These buildings now act as a skate park or events hall
for example. And, of course, Tilburg has, like any other
large city, numerous terraces, restaurants, and nightlife
venues.
Tilburg is also distinguished by a packed events
calendar. During the event season the centre of Tilburg is
everybodys living room. You encounter each other at the
Gypsy Festival, Tilburg Ten Miles, Incubate, or Roadburn.
And of course in the summer also at Festival Mundial or
at the Tilburg Fair. This year it also is The Year 013, a
year filled with creative initiatives and surprising collaborations, organized by the people of Tilburg themselves.
Often on the 13th day of the month.
So in short, with the Tilburg In Your Pocket guide in
hand, you have made the first step towards an unforgettable time in Tilburg.
Peter Noordanus
Mayor of Tilburg
By train
Tilburg can be easily reached via its three train stations. The
central train station borders the city centre and the bus station. From the central station you can reach any corner of the
Netherlands, but if you want to get to Amsterdam, youll need
to change trains in s-Hertogenbosch. One kilometer from
the central station is the smaller Tilburg Universiteit station
where hundreds of students get off to quench their thirst for
knowledge. A two-minute walk is all they need to reach the
university from the train station. Finally, at the edge of the
city youll find the Tilburg Reeshof station that connects the
newest part of the city to the rest of the country.
To travel by train, youll need a ticket. If you travel without
a ticket youll be fined 35. You can purchase tickets at the
yellow machines that adorn all train stations or at the NS
Service desk on the right hand side of the central station in
Tilburg. When you buy a ticket at the service desk, you pay
50 cents extra in service charges. For more information in
English visit www.ns.nl.
Spring/Summer 2013
E5
E6
BASICS
Read on and find out why the Dutch allow people to smoke
joints, but not to operate a bicycle while intoxicated. Plenty of
other funny facts about the Netherlands are available here.
Alcohol
Tilburg has many cafs and restaurants so youre never far
from a glass of wine or a pint of beer. Heineken, Grolsch and
the Belgian Jupiler are the three most popular beers on offer
at most places in the inner city. Other tasty brews include
Brand, Bavaria, Hertog Jan and Amstel. Beer is served everywhere, but you must be able to prove that youre at least 16
years old (to drink beer or wine) or 18 for spirits. If you look
too young youll be carded, so always bring identification. This
holds true for supermarkets and off-licences, too. If youre
a little too tipsy youll probably be asked (firmly, yet kindly)
to leave the premises and if you dont cooperate you could
end up spending a night sobering up in a police drunk tank,
most likely followed by a decent hangover
Language
Dutch is an Indo-European Germanic language that is mostly
spoken in the Netherlands, Flanders and Suriname (South
America). It is closely connected to the Low German dialects
which by now have largely been flooded by official German.
These dialects managed to keep a number of proto-Germanic characteristics, and for this reason, Dutch as a language
is a living fossil. It represents a group of important dialects
that were spoken by the founders of the Frankish Empire
and the Saxons. The latter group were the founders of the
English language as it is spoken today, hence Anglo-Saxons.
Afrikaans, as it is spoken in South Africa, is descended from
the 17th-century version of modern Dutch. Most Dutch have
a more than fairly healthy command of the English language.
Many will also be adept at other European languages with
German being the most commonly spoken. Mastering the
Dutch language can be a terrifying ordeal, but learning a few
key phrases will make things easier.
Local time
From 28 March to 31 October, the Netherlands is in the
Central European Summer Time Zone, or GMT+2. The rest
of the year the clock ticks according to the Central European
Time Zone, or GMT+1.
National holidays
January 1 New Years Day (Nieuwjaarsdag)
March 29, 2013 Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag)
March 31, 2013 Easter Sunday (Pasen)
April 1, 2013 Easter Monday (Pasen)
April 30 Queens Day (Koninginnedag)
May 1 Labour Day (Dag van de Arbeid)
May 4 Remembrance of the Dead
(Nationale Herdenking)
May 5 Liberation Day (Dag van de Vrijheid)
May 9 Mothers Day (Moederdag)
May 13 Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag)
May 23 - 24 Whitsun (Pinksteren)
June 20 Fathers Day (Vaderdag)
June 26 Veterans Day (Veteranendag)
September 21 Budget Day (Prinsjesdag)
December 5 St. Nicolas (Sinterklaas)
December 25 - 26 Christmas (Kerstmis)
December 31 New Years Eve (Oudejaarsdag)
Street Art: smokers and other creatures outside 013
Money
Since 2002, a large part of the European Union has adopted
the euro as its local currency and the Netherlands is no
exception. One euro contains 100 eurocents. There are
coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 eurocents, and also of 1 and
2 euro. Banknotes are available with the following values:
5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500. Although a collection of
200 and 500 bills in your wallet might make you feel like
Bill Gates or some Russian tycoon bear in mind that theyre
almost never accepted in shops or restaurants. All Dutch
banks accept Visa and MasterCard at their cash dispensers. At the train station you can find a GWK Travelex shop
(open 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00).
Many restaurants, hotels, and shops accept Visa and
MasterCard, but to avoid disappointment, be sure to carry
some cash with you.
Phone numbers
All In Your Pocket guides in its European publishing empire
list country codes before all telephone numbers. The Dutch
country code is (+31), but of course, you only have to use
this if youre dialling from abroad. If youre already in the
Netherlands and want to call one of the numbers in this guide,
just ignore the (+31) prefix and dial the ten-digit number.
Roads
For a country as small as the Netherlands, there are a
ridiculously high number of asphalt roads and motorways.
The majority of Dutch drivers never break the speed limit,
and considering the severity of traffic fines, this seems wise
enough. If you exceed the maximum speed by 50km/h youll
lose your driving licence and be fined. Within city limits you
must drive 50km/h, outside city limits 80 and on motorways
100 or 120 (check the road signs!). In the Netherlands you
must drive on the right side of the road, and you are not allowed to cycle on motorways! You have no idea how many
tourists are plucked off the road by police each year.
Smoking
Since the introduction of the ban on smoking in public places
on July, 1 2008, smoking has become a lot less common
in Holland. These days you can have a wild night out and
come home without your hair and your clothes reeking of
cigarette smoke. However, thanks to unclear rules you may
suddenly find yourself in a pub where people are smoking.
This is usually in pubs with just a single staff member: the
boss. Or you may find yourself in a pub that flouts the ban
on smoking. This will not have any consequences for you:
if you light a cigarette in a pub and the manager tolerates
this, then the manager will receive a fine upon inspection.
Joints can only be smoked in coffeeshops and not in cafs.
BASICS
E8
HISTORY
Tilburgs long history stretches back to the 8th century.
709 - First mention of Tilburg

A document from the Liber Aereus Epternacensis includes a
mention of Tiliburgis. On 21May, the priest Vigilius writes a
document in Tiliburgis, in which the nobleman Aengilbertus
donates a farm to the Bishop of Utrecht, Wilibrord. Tiliburgis
is most likely a name for a collection of settlements.
1232 - First
mention of the
church
Duke Hendrik I of Brabant
grants patronage rights to
the church of West Tilburg at
the abbey of Tongerlo. The
church had Saint Dionysius,
the first bishop of Paris,
as its patron. Its unknown
when Tilburgs first church
was built, but it was erected
at the location of the current
Heike Church.
1387 - Lord of Tilburg

Duchess Johanna van Brabant is in need of money. Knight
Paulus van Haestrecht, high sheriff of s-Hertogenbosch, is
willing to lend the Duchess a sum of money. Johanna van
Brabant gives him the villages of Tilburg, Drunen and Goirle
as collateral for the loan. Hereby Paulus van Haestrecht
becomes lord of Tilburg.
1453 - Philips
own aldermen
Philip the Good of Burgundy
and the Duke of Brabant
grants Paulus van
Haestrecht the authority
to annually appoint seven
aldermen to oversee the
administration of justice in
his villages of Tilburg and
Goirle. From now on justice
will be meted out according
to the code of justice of sHertogenbosch.
1500 - A centre
for textiles
At this time Tilburg consists
of the villages of Goirke,
Heike, Heuvel, Hasselt and
Heikant. Many sheep are
kept on the vast heaths
surrounding these villages. The large quantities of wool
generated through this are ideal for the emerging of Tilburgs
textile industry. Many people in Tilburg find work as sheep
shearers, spinners or weavers. As time passes Tilburg grows
to become the Netherlands largest centre for textiles.
1570 - The Tilburg Fair

The first written mention
of the Tilburg Fair, which is
held in August, is made in a
custody account. In 1575,
King Philip II grants Tilburg
permission to hold three
annual fairs. The Fun Fair
of Tilburg, which has been
held each last week of July
since 1939, has now grown into an event which draws over
one million visitors.
1746 - Painter
Grard van
Spaendonck is
born
Th e painter G rard van
Spaendonck is born. This
son of a future mayor of
Tilburg receives his training
as a painter in Antwerp
from Guillaume-Jacques
Herreyns. In 1769 he leaves
for Paris where he makes a name for himself as a painter
of flowers. Claude-Henri Watelet vouches for him and he is
appointed as a miniature painter at the court of Louis XVI.
In 1808 Napoleon grants him the title of Count. When he
dies in 1822, he is buried at
the Parisian cemetery Pre
Lachaise.
1809 - Tilburg
becomes a city
Tilburg has a lot of history to explore
King Louis Napoleon visits

Tilburg during a tour of the
Netherlands. By royal decree
the king grants Tilburg the
rights of a city on 18 April
1809. An earlier census
showed that Tilburg had
9465 inhabitants.
HISTORY
1840 - Crowning
of King Willem II
1809 - Petrus Donders is born
On 7 October King Willem II

is crowned. This member of
the royal family enjoyed his
stay in Tilburg commenting
Here I can breathe freely.
In 1847 he commissioned a
palace to be built here, which
was to serve as a country
residence. It was in this
beloved city that King Willem
II passed away on 17 March
1849 after a brief illness.
O n 27 O c t o b e r P e t r u s
Donders is born in Tilburg.
Peerke, as he is called by
l o c al s, gra d u a te s fro m
seminary and leaves for
Suriname in 1842. Initially
he works as a chaplain
in Paramaribo. In 1855
h e b e c om es th e pri est
in a leper colony on the
Coppename river. Peerke
dies in 1887 and is later
buried in the Cathedral in
Paramaribo. After his death,
several miraculous healings
are attributed to him and the
house where he was born
becomes a place of pilgrimage. In 1982 he was beatified
in Rome and and in 2009 a museum was opened in his
honour in Tilburg: Peerke Donders Paviljoen, Museum voor
naastenliefde.
1927 - Tilburg University
1827 - The first steam engine arrives

in Tilburg
On 8 July 1944, Coba Pulskens,

who had already provided a hiding
place for Jews, is requested to
arrange a place to stay for five Allied
pilots. While three of the pilots are
already ensconced in a house on
Diepenstraat, the car containing
the two remaining pilots is stopped
by German soldiers. During the
interrogation, the Germans find out
the hiding place of the other pilots.
During the subsequent house
raid, the three pilots, of Canadian, British and Australian
nationality, are killed. Coba is arrested and dies in February
1945 in the Ravensbrck concentration camp.
Pieter van Dooren uses

Tilburgs first steam engine,
built in Vervier, in the wool
mill which he opened in
1825. Protests erupt among
local textile workers, who
fear that the machine will make them obsolete and Pieter
van Dorens windows are smashed. In 1975 his wool mill
is demolished after heated debates in the Tilburg city
council.
The Roman Catholic Trade Academy is founded. The school

opens with 28 economics students. From 1963, several
departments are added to the academy, among others
the faculties of Law, Theology and Literature. In 1986, the
name of the academy is changed to the Catholic University
of Brabant, but since 2002 its official name is Tilburg
University.
1944 - Resistance by Coba Pulskens
1992 - Museum De Pont is opened
One of Tilburgs numerous war memorials
The De Pont centre for modern art is opened in a former

wool mill, which was remodelled by the architects Bethem
and Crouwel. The museum
for national and international
visual art was named after
lawyer and businessman Mr
J.H. de Pont (1915 - 1987),
whose will stipulates the
creation of a foundation
fo r t h e s ti m u l a ti o n o f
contemporary art.
Spring/Summer 2013
E9
E10
CULTURE & EVENTS

When the Dutch think of Tilburg and events, the annual
Tilburgse Kermis fair immediately comes to mind and as
far as culture is concerned the city has a lot to offer. A
great theatre and one of the Netherlands better concert
halls are both available in Tilburg. Any true music fan would
be happy to pay a visit to 013, which has gained worldwide
recognition as the venue for the Roadburn Festival. Check
venue websites for more musicals, theatre and concerts.
Tilburgs various art academies and associations are also
a major driving force behind the cultural life of the city.
Cinemas
Cinecitta C-2, Willem II Straat 29, tel. (+31) 135 42
13 79, www.cinecitta.nl. This cinema shows films of

completely different calibre than the ones featured at the big
multiplexes, hence the absence of youngsters out to see the
latest Hollywood blockbuster. Although the big screen occasionally shows some popular films, most are edgy art-house
films. The beautiful building in the heart of the city has three
screens, a large reception area and a relaxed atmosphere.
QOpen 18:30 - 01:00.
Euroscoop I-6, Olympiaplein 2, tel. (+31) 135 81 28 20,
www.euroscoop.nl. This massive Belgian cinema offers 12
screening rooms and a wide variety of popular current films
including some in 3D. Tickets are also a euro cheaper here
than at places in the city. QOpen 14:00 - 24:30. TG
Path C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 174, tel. (+31) 900 14
58, www.pathe.nl. This cinema boasts seven theatres
with a total of 1400 seats. Although virtually every type of
film is shown here, its a cinema that seems to attract mainly
younger people, a fact thats also reflected in the selection
of films. The big theatres are equipped with excellent sound
systems and digital projectors and some movies are also
shown in 3D. QOpen 13:00 - 24:00. PJUG
Concert halls
013 D-2, Veemarktstraat
44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95

00, w w w.013.nl. From
Cypress Hill and Robbie Williams to Editors and Moby,
the biggest names in pop
and alternative music have
all played at 013. Its main
room offers a sloped floor
like a theatres so ever y
spot in the house is good for
keeping an eye on the band.
New York rapper Nas will
Named after the area code
perform on March 25 at
of Tilburg, this famous music
20:00 at 013
club draws crowds from all
over the Netherlands. QOpen 07:30 - 02:30, Thu, Fri, Sat
07:30 - 04:30. JEGX
Paradox C-2, Telegraafstraat 62, beheer@paradoxtilburg.nl, www.paradoxtilburg.nl. Tilburg has a long tradition
of Jazz music, but even though several of its pioneers were
born here, these days its still a genre which is only regularly
heard at a place like Paradox. Established long ago by Tilburg
Jazz musicians as a place where all artists could play, it still
serves that function today. Basically, its a lively pub with a
cosy atmosphere filled with people who enjoy real musicians.
In other words, the perfect venue for jazz. Q JEGX
More culture and events at

Air
NuMetal gods KORN will perform their mix of metal and

dubstep on June 12 at 013
Rock, folk, jazz & More

Mar
Date Time Event
Venue
23 20:15 Pop. Edwin Evers Band. 18.50
013
25 20:00 Hip hop. NAS. They dont get
013
much bigger than this. With
opening acts Coely (Belgium)
and Winne (NL). 32.50
27 21:00 Reggae. Anthony B & Band. 20 013
29 20:30 Black metal. Svartidaui with
013
supporting acts Verbum Verus,
Botulistum & Funeral Goat. 7
29 22:30 Sixties/rock n roll. The GinGin.
NV
5
30 20:30 Stoner rock. The Mad Trist 013
Animals & Acrobats Tour. 10
Apr
3 20:15 Pop. Acda & de Munnik : t
Heerst. 21
5 20:30 Beat. The KIK. 12
6 20:00 Mash. Surprising encounters:
DJ Lucien Foort, Dordrecht
Philharmonic Orchestra & Tilburg
Bigband. 15
6 20:15 Pop. Frans Bauer - Live in
Concert IX
6 23:00 Electro/Techno. Rara Aves x The
Warehouse Party with NT89,
Henzel & Disco Nova, TWR72,
Kristof & Cursed P. 10
8 20:30 Pop. The Babysitter Circus. 9
11 20:30 Folk. I Muvrini. Semi-seated
concert. 30
19 20:30 The Rosenberg Trio - Gypsy
Nights. 24
20 20:30 Fado. Cristina Branco - Alegria.
18.50
22 20:45 Singer-songwriter. Matt Simons
& Chris Ayer. 8
26 22:30 Sixties/rock n roll. De GinGin.
5
27 19:15 Clash of the Cover bands:
BeNeLux Final. 20
May
2 20:30 Singer-songwriter. Alex Roeka Gegroefd. 19.50
3 20:30 Jazz. The Ploctones ft. Andreas
Schaerer. 15
TT
013
013
TT
013
013
013
TT
TT
013
NV
013
TT
PA
CULTURE & EVENTS

Exhibition venues
Rock, folk, jazz & More

6
8
10
12
15
16
22
23
23
29
31
20:00 Hard rock. Witchcraft & Orchid.

13.50
20:30 Jazz. Puma ft. ystein Moen,
Stian Westerhus & Gard Nilssen.
13
20:15 Rock. Golden Earring. 33.50
20:30 Noise/Industrial. Atlantis with
supporting acts The Fifth
Allicance & A Giant A Genius. 6
20:15 Singer-songwriter. Boudewijn de
Groot : Vaarwel, misschien tot
ziens (Goodbye and maybe till we
meet again)
20:30 Jazz. Eef Albers, Cesar Zuiderwijk
& Rinus Gerritsen. 13
20:30 Jazz. Enrico Pieranunzis New
European Trio ft. Jasper Somsen
& Pieter Bast. 13
21:00 Jazz. Gare Du Nord. 20
20:30 Country. Treetop Flyers. 6
20:30 Jazz. VLEK: Brabants jazz septet
in progress. Free admission
22:30 Sixties/rock n roll. De GinGin.
5
Jun
1 16:30 Sixties/rock n roll. De GinGin.
5
3 20:00 Jazz. JazzSwitch presentation of
jazz workhops Factorium Tilburg
& a jazz workshop by Paul van
Kemenade. Free admission
5 20:00 Rock. Joe Satriani. The
legendary faster-than-hisshadow guitarist. 42.50
8 20:30 Jazz. Schuimt. Free admission
9 16:30 Pop. MainStreet. 15
11 20:00 Metal. Coal Chamber. 37.50
12 20:30 NuMetal. American NuMetal
gods Korn will perform with
Hellyeah & Love and Death. 39
17 20:00 Rock. 3 Doors Down. 39
18 20:00 Hard rock. Whitesnake: Year of
the Snake. 53
19 20:30 Punk/hardcore. The Bouncing
Souls & Every Time I Die. 15
Sept
13 20:30 Jazz. The Cyro Baptista Group
(Brazil/USA). 15
Textile Museum I-5, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31) 135

013
PA
013
013
TT
PA
PA
013
013
PA
NV
NV
PA
013
PA
013
013
013
013
013
013
PA
American guitar legend Joe Satriani will perform on June 5

at 013
36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. The Textile Museum

offers insight into the rich textile history of Tilburg. It is
housed in a 19th century building and the collection is
divided into 4 sections: textile science, design, industrial culture and arts. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun
12:00 - 17:00.
BKKC C-2, Spoorlaan 21 i-k, tel. (+31) 137 50 84 00,
www.bkkc.nl. BKKC is Brabants provincial Knowledge
Centre for the Arts. The centre compares itself to a spider,
which deserves some explanation. The large space is divided
into eight big sections or legs if you will: the arts, film, theatre,
dance, music, design and architecture (and one more that
we forgot). BKKCs main objective is to support artists from
Brabant in their development as much as possible, but the
general public can also benefit from the exhibitions on display
here, but entertaining day trippers isnt its highest priority.
QOpen 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. JG
De Pont I-5, Tjeuke Timmermansstraat 4, tel. (+31)
135 43 83 00, www.depont.nl. De Pont combines the
history of Tilburg with contemporary art. It offers both
temporary and permanent exhibitions. QOpen 11:00 17:00. Closed Mon.
Natuurmuseum Brabant B-2, Spoorlaan 434, tel.
(+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant.nl.
The magnificent building of the Brabant Museum of Nature
is home to thousands of beautiful stuffed animals, fossils,
plants and insects. In addition, the museum has permanent
and temporary exhibitions and a very creative way marketing
them. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon. TJAGK
Exhibitions
Exhibition
The Making of Dinosaurs. How do we
know what dinosaurs really looked like? And
how did we find their bones? More of these
questions are answered for anyone with a
love of dinosaurs and paleontology. Open
10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon
Dino-Doe Zaal. Kids can experience
dinosaurs with crafts, painting, dressing-up
and more. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun
12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon
The Journey. An exhibition about the
extraordinary lives of animals. Open 10:00 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon
Brabant is Going Outside displays the
diversity of the landscape in Brabant as well
as its inhabitants. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat,
Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon
TextilleLab. A peek behind the screens of
the current machinery at the Textile museum.
Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon
ROUGH. Sculptures, installations and objects
celebrate the redevelopment of the first
floor of the Textile Museum. On display until
29.09.2013. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun
12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon
Tales on the Table. Table linen from the 17th
century up to the latest Dutch designs. On
display until 03.11.2013. Open 10:00 - 17:00,
Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon
Venue
NB
NB
NB
NB
TM
TM
TM
Spring/Summer 2013
E11
E12
CULTURE & EVENTS

Classical & Opera
Mar
Date Time Event
Venue
22 20:30 Classical. Amsterdam Sinfonietta TT
- Mozart cello concert. 11.50
- 26.50
29 20:30 Classical. The Orchestra
TT
of Brabant presents: the
Foundation of Russian Tradition.
17.50 - 30
Apr
1 14:30 Classical. Wibi Soerjadi piano
recital. 16.50
7 14:30 Classical. Hannes Minnaar Souvenir chamber music series.
28.50
17 20:30 Classical. Atos Trio - Souvenir
chamber music series. 28.50
18 20:30 Classical. Nederlands Blazers
Ensemble - Mozarts Die
Zauberflte. 20
27 20:30 Classical. Bach & Hndel
- Ensemble Nederlandse
Bachvereniging. 12.50 - 20.50
28 14:30 Classical. ArkA Symphony
Orchestra Maastricht. 17.25
TT
TT
TT
TT
TT
TT
May
7 20:30 Classical. Szymanowski Quartet - TT
Souvenir chamber music series.
28.50
Jun
1 20:15 Opera. Opera Zuid performs
Puccinis Tosca. 16 - 37
TT
Experience Pinkpop, the largest rock festival in the

Netherlands, this June. Photo by Jelmer de Haas
Venues
013 013
CCT City Centre of Tilburg
FW Festivalpark Werchter
LM Landgraaf Megaland
NB Natuurmuseum Brabant
NV De NWE Vorst
PA Paradox
SZ Spoorzone
TM Audax Textiel Museum
TT Theaters Tilburg
Fado singer Cristina Branco will perform her moving

Portuguese melodies on April 20 at Theaters Tilburg.
Photo by Augusto Brzio
Live music
Bolle D-3, Piusplein 8, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 90, www.
cafebolle.nl. In 2011 this place was named one of the best

pubs in the Netherlands. The stage at the back is frequently
occupied by live bands and you might just stumble upon a
fairly famous group, even on a weekday. QOpen 10:00 04:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00.
(9 - 14). TJEGBKX
Cenakel J-6, Cenakel 1, tel. (+31) 135 81 13 67, www.
cenakel.nl. After a thorough renovation in 1998, the former
monastery chapel of the Cenakel has become a popular venue
for concerts and exhibitions. Q
Special events venues

Leijpark J-6, Ringbaan Zuid. This 30-acre park was built
in an English landscape style as a job creation project prior

to World War II. The tiny De Leij stream from which the park
derives its name lends it extra allure. In the summer the
Mundial Festival takes place here. Q
Muzentuin C-4, Zwijsenplein 1. The Garden Muse is a
hidden gem where concerts and theatre events take place on
a regular basis. It was formerly the garden of the monastery
of the Order of Our Lady of Visitation. Q
Oisterwijk Outdoor Theatre M-8, Gemullehoekenweg
147, Oisterwijk, tel. (+31) 617 59 53 68, www.natuurtheater.nl. During the summer months weekly performances
take place in this Roman-style amphitheatre. For over half a
century local culture-lovers have enjoyed the modern open-air
version of Bread & Circuses. Q
Tilburg Fun Fair Old town, tel. (+31) 135 42 94 63,
www.detilburgsekermis.nl. The so-called fun fair or kermis
is perhaps Tilburgs most characteristic and endearing symbol and it also happens to be the countrys biggest. It has the
latest and most spectacular rides as well as the nostalgia of
decades past and is popular entertainment at its best. The
annual fair will be held for ten days in the centre of Tilburg
between July 22 and 31. More than one million people visit
this colourful event every year and the tradition has been in
existence for over 440 years! In fact, the city council considers Kermis so important that it has nominated the fair to be
listed as a UNESCO protected intangible heritage event. Q
Tivoli Park (Interpolistuin) E-2, Spoorlaan 298.
The Tivoli Park is located on the edge of the shopping and
entertainment district of the city centre. Its trees and ponds
make it the perfect place for a wide variety of cultural events.
The name of this green oasis comes from its sponsor, the
Interpolis insurance company, which also owns the gigantic
futuristic building next door. Q
CULTURE & EVENTS

Festivals
Festivals
Mar
Date Time Event
Venue
2, 9, 20:00 Festival Artdanth. An
NV
14,
international theatre exchange
22,
between Paris, Montral and
29
Tilburg. With five nights in March,
theatre lovers will be sure to
get their fix as T.r.a.s.h., Nicolas
Cantin, Fred Momotenko & Hans
Tuerlings, David Wampach and
Guilhemre Miottu perform at
NWE Vorst
24 14:00 Festival PUUR. World music from TT
klezmer and Cape Verdian pop
to Moluccan melodies and Latin
tunes. 9
Apr
18-21 15:30 Roadburn Festival. Stoner rock, 013
doom, psychedelica & avantgarde metal at 013 with Process
of Guilt, Teeth of The Sea,
Primordial, High on Fire, Electric
Wizard, Amenra, Godflesh, Cult
of Luna and many more. 185
May
3 18:00 Neurotic Deathfest: 10th
013
Anniversary. Carcass Repulsion,
Immolation, Vallenfyre,
Cryptopsy, Possesed, Exhumed
and more jolly old fellows on
stage at the biggest indoor
metal festival in the region.
45 - 90
30
Tilburgs Got Talent 2013.
013
Tilburg youths ranging from 12 to
15 compete for the title
Jun
14-16
29-30
30
Pinkpop rock and pop festival.

This years line-up will include
Green Day, the Killers, Ben
Howard, Kensington, Thirty
Seconds to Mars, Queens of the
Stone Age and more. Tickets
85 - 165
Mundial Festival. Cross cultural
festival with Fat Freddys Drop,
Schlachthofbronx, Anthony
Joseph & The Spasm Band,
Spoek Mathambo, Yes Sir
Boss, Balkan Beat Box, Coely
and more acts including dance,
theatre & performing arts.
17.50 - 27.50
LM
Tilburg Beer Festival. Enjoy

brews from over 20 breweries
from the Netherlands, Belgium
and England
CCT
SZ
Jul
4-7
Rock Werchter. Belgiums biggest

festival just across the border
offers 4 days of music, campsite
culture and festival fun. Line-up:
Green Day, Bloc Party, Netsky,
Dizzee Rascal, Kings of Leon,
Blur, John Legend, Kendrick
Lamar, Rammstein, Thirty
Seconds To Mars and many
more. Day ticket 80, weekend
200, campsite 18 - 25
6 13:00- Back to the 90s Outdoor
0:00 Festival. 90s, early rave,
hardcore, Eurodance and happy
hardcore by legends Charly
Lownoise & Mental Theo, Dune,
Flamman & Abraxas, Paul Elstak,
2 brothers on the 4th floor and
3FM hero Gerard Ekdom. 32.50
19-28 12:00 Tilburg Fair. Watch the city go
bananas as the biggest fair in
01:00 the BeNeLux nations arrives
in the city centre with roller
coasters, merry-go-rounds,
gambling, thrill-rides, you name it.
Every monday is Pink Monday
where gay and straight alike
party in pink
27
DJ Francois Birthday Bash 2013
at the Heuvel Gallery (shopping
centre)
Sept
10-16
Incubate Festival. This
independent culture festival will
entertain Tilburg with over seven
days of concerts, performances
and activities in the city centre.
Check out incubate.org for
tickets
25.09
Nederlands Film Festival
(Utrecht). The film festival in
04.10
Holland hosts every aspect of
Dutch cinema. In addition to the
Golden Calf awards, you can also
enjoy activities, film and food.
If youre in Utrecht during the
festival, its impossible to miss
it. Over 15 venues participate in
the festival
FW
LP
CC
HG
CC
CCT
Tickets
Tickets for events like music, sports, theatre, and festivals
are best bought at the venue itself or from TicketMaster
outlets (www.ticketmaster.nl). You can buy tickets by phone
or pick up reserved tickets from selected VVV Outlets and
TicketShops and the Free Record Shop at Heuvelstraat 111.
Celebrated in July, the Tilburg Kermis or fun fair is the

largest such event in the Netherlands. Photo by E.Jonkman
Spring/Summer 2013
E13
E14
CULTURE & EVENTS

Sport venues
Theatre, dance & Ballet

Mar
Date Time Event
26 20:15 Dance. Hong - The Show.
Choreography by Roy Julen &
Minh Vu. 13 -22
30 20:00 Stand-up. Tilburg Tigers - Tiger
Tales. 8 - 11
Apr
2 20:00 Musical. Karin Bloemen & Cor
Bakker - Diva(s) in Carr. 13
- 26
2 20:30 Film. This is Spinal Tap. 5
6 20:30 Musical theatre. Ogham in
Concert. Energetic Celtic folk
band. 11 - 18
11 20:30 Cover. Zapp 4 : The Radiohead
Songbook. String specialists give
their own spin on Radioheads
biggest hits. 11.50
12 20:30 Folk. Amsterdam Klezmer Band MOKUM. 20.50
13
Dance. Diavolo Dance Theatre
(USA). Acrobatics and dance
from the Cirque du Soleil in Las
Vegas. 16 - 35
16 20:00 Musical theatre. Wilfried de Jong
& Ocobar - Non Stop New York.
16.50
19 20:15 Dance. Ea Sola (VN) - Drought
and Rain. 16 - 27
19 20:30 Musical theatre. The Rosenberg
Trio & Johnny Rosenberg - Gypsy
Nights. 24
24 14:30 Childrens theatre. Desir
Hornikx - Friponne. 5
25 20:15 Dance. Scapino Ballet Rotterdam
- Le Chat Noir. 11 - 24
26 20:30 Tango. Tango Extremo presents:
Tango Novo. 18
May
1 - 4 20:00 Theatre. De Koffer - Festival
Lentekoorts. Free admission
2 20:30 Alex Roeka - Gegroefd. 19.50
3 20:15 Music. Ruth Jacott - A Lady on
Stage. 23 - 36
4 20:00 Mix. LAvventura. Theatre, music,
circus art and performances.
11 - 13
14 20:15 Dance. Dutch Dance Theatre 1 Shoot the Moon. 11.50 - 27.50
19 20:15 Musical. Buddy: The Buddy Holly
Story. 22 - 35.50
25 20:00 Stand-up. Tilburg Tigers - Tiger
Tales. 8 - 11
Jun
7-8 20:15 Percussion show. Yamato - The
Best of 20 Years of Yamato.
21.50 - 36
9, 16, 14:30 Theatre. V.O.S.: Calendar Girls.
23
5 - 12.50
9, 15 20:30 Theatre. V.O.S.: Calendar Girls.
- 16,
5 - 12.50
21 23
IJsportcentrum I-6, Stappegoorweg 3, tel. (+31) 135
Venue
TT
NV
TT
NV
TT
TT
TT
TT
TT
32 58 00, www.tilburg.nl. For years this has been the

home of the Tilburg Trappers, a local ice hockey team. The
yellow-blue brigade that are supported by a fanatical crowd
of loyal fans even recently won the national cup. In 2008, the
arena also hosted the Dutch Open Figure Skating Championships. Individuals and groups can also come here to practice
their pirouettes or hockey stops. Take buses Nr.1 or 11 from
central station. Only open in autumn and winter. QOpen
10:00 - 22:00. TL
Irene Wst IJsbaan I-6, Curlingstraat 15, tel. (+31)
135 83 61 00, www.ijsclubtilburg.nl. Irene Wust, a skater
from the nearby village of Goirle, won two gold medals at the
Olympic winter games in both 2006 and 2010. Shes also
one of the biggest all-round skating stars in Holland, so it
comes as no surprise that the Tilburg Ice Rink was named
after her. You can either try this very Dutch sport yourself or
just watch the professionals do their thing. QOpen 10:00
- 22:00, Mon 10:00 - 19:30, Sat 12:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 17:00. (5.80). T
Willem II stadium I-6, Goirleseweg 34, tel. (+31)
135 49 05 90, www.willem-ii.nl. Since the local football club hasnt had much success recently, most people
come to this great stadium for concerts by famous Dutch
pop stars. Q
Theatres
Bosvreugd Cultuurbos H-5, Reeshofdijk 12, tel. (+31)
TT
TT
NO
TT
TT
NV
TT
TT
NV
TT
TT
NV
TT
NO
NO
134 63 35 31, www.bosvreugd.nl. Bosvreugd is a multicultural meeting place every Sunday afternoon. Surrounded
by two parks, the Wandelbos and the Oude Warande, Bosvreugd is located in the heart of the greenest part of Tilburg.
In the summer theres an outside bar on the large sidewalk
where you can order snacks and on weekdays you can hire
Bosvreugd for private parties. QOpen Sun 15:00 - 02:00.
Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat. T6EB
Cinecitta C-2, Willem II Straat 29, tel. (+31) 135 42
13 79, www.cinecitta.nl. This cinema shows films of
completely different calibre than the ones featured at the
big multiplexes, hence the absence of youngsters out to see
the latest Hollywood blockbuster. Although the big screen
occasionally shows some popular films, most are edgy arthouse films. QOpen 18:30 - 01:00.
De NWE Vorst C-3, Willem II straat 49, tel. (+31) 135 32
85 20, www.denwevorst.nl. This building has served various
functions since it was built in 1872, but today its a theatre. It
offers two stages, one large and one incredibly small where
youre practically sitting in the laps of the actors. QOpen 10:00
- 18:00, Sat 15:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJHGK
Theatres Tilburg B-4, Louisbouwmeesterplein 1, tel.
(+13) 135 43 22 20, www.theaterstilburg.nl. Theaters
Tilburg consists of a monumental theatre, a strikingconcert
hall, a studio and intimate arthouse cinema. A cultural spot
with a wide range of performing arts and film. Enjoy more
than 300 performances and
concerts and 600 movies
this year. Also many Dutch
musicals have premiered
an d youn g tal en ts from
the neighbouring Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (Art
College) regularly perform
here. Quality and service
are paramount, even their
Dont miss Tango Extremo
own restaurant Lucebert.
performing Tango Novo on
Q Open 12:00 - 01:00.
April 26 at Theaters Tilburg
GBK
E16
WHERE TO STAY
Finding a place to stay in Tilburg takes some planning.
There are few low budget hotels and hostels, so, unfortunately, most options are more expensive accommodations. If youre a business traveller who can abuse the
companys expense account, then youre in luck. All prices
listed below include VAT and many offer breakfast, but
often for a hefty fee.
Upmarket
Auberge Du Bonheur H-5, Bredaseweg 441, tel. (+31)
134 68 69 42, www.bonheurhorecagroep.nl. The small
Auberge du Bonheur hotel has a beautiful, classic Jaguar
parked in the driveway, which is characteristic of the luxury
and style you can expect here. Auberge du Bonheurs is, after
all, the most chic hotel in Tilburg and each of its 26 rooms is
uniquely designed with rural themes. The villa in which the
hotel is housed is just outside the city centre, but theres
enough to do close by. The hotel has an outstanding restaurant and hikers can take advantage of the nearby woods, de
Oude Warande, where you can go on long walks. The hotel is
a short distance from Tilburg University and its suitable for
bon vivants as well as for hardworking businesspeople. Q 26
rooms (doubles 129). PHALGBKXW hhhh
De Postelse Hoeve I-5, Dr. Deelenlaan 10, tel. (+31)
134 63 63 35, www.depostelsehoeve.nl. De Postelse Hoeve is located on the edge of the city near many motorways,
so its ideal for business travellers and free parking is another
perk. It looks more like an American motel, however, than a
Dutch four-star hotel, because of its layered architecture.
Despite the fact that the interior is somewhat dated, it still
has plenty to offer. The dark rooms and corridors give the complex a 1970s look, but all have been upgraded with modern
conveniences like wireless internet. The hotels restaurant,
which happens to serve the best lobster in the Tilburg area,
is reason enough to spend a cosy night here. Q 35 rooms
(97 - 195). PTHALGBKXW hhhh
Mercure Hotel Tilburg Centrum D-3, Heuvelpoort
300, tel. (+31) 135 35 46 75, www.mercure-tilburg.

nl. The biggest advantage of this four-star hotel is also its
biggest drawback. Because its so centrally located in the
heart of the bustling inner city near all of the pubs, clubs and
nightlife, early sleepers might be bothered by the commotion outside. If, however, you dont mind sleeping with your
window closed, youll be fine. The staff is friendly and the
rooms are spacious, but bear in mind that the best rooms
are in the new extension of the hotel. The Taste restaurant
in the cellar is excellent and well worth a try. Q 91 rooms
(2 singles 128, 79 doubles 128, 4 triples 128, 2 suites
134, 4 apartments 140). PTJHAULGB
KXW hhhh
Mid-range
Bastion Hotel Tilburg J-6, Kempenbaan 2, tel. (+31)
135 44 19 99, www.bastionhotelgroep.nl. Bastion is

the Netherlands only national hotel chain of Dutch origin.
Its situated on the edge of Tilburg, ideally located between
the Beekse Bergen and Efteling amusement parks. The
rooms and bathrooms are simple and equipped with modern
conveniences like electric kettles and free internet. This
unpretentious hotel also serves the best breakfast in town
where everything is fresh and you can eat as much as your
stomach permits. The only downside is that the management
still has a smoking-friendly policy, which could of course be
an advantage if you like to light up. On weekdays the hotel
is packed with businesspeople. Q 40 rooms (40 doubles
36). THALGKXW hhh
Symbol key
P Air conditioning
A Credit cards accepted
C Swimming pool
H Conference facilities
F Fitness centre
U Facilities for the disabled
6 Pets allowed
L Guarded parking
K Restaurant
D Sauna
W Free wireless internet
City Hotel Tilburg D-3, Heuvelring 126, tel. (+31)

135 35 13 55, www.cityhoteltilburg.nl. People who just
see their hotel room as a place to sleep could hardly find a
better place than the City Hotel, which is located in the heart
of the city centre. But if youre a light sleeper, this might not
be the best place for you. Not everyone would be thrilled by
the corny name and dull exterior, but no one could possibly
complain about the comfortable beds in this small hotel.
Modern amenities like flat screen TVs and recently renovated
shower/bathrooms all come standard. Unfortunately you have
to pay an absurd amount of money (16) for internet. Q 18
rooms. JALGW hhh
De Rooi Pannen I-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135
95 56 50, www.derooipannen.nl. The unsuspecting tourist who happens across this former convent will no doubt be
surprised by the relatively low prices of its rooms. All of its
accommodation from standard to super deluxe rooms are
modern, comfortable, incredibly clean and are equipped with
excellent beds. The reason for all this quality is that De Rooi
Pannen is an educational institution for HoReCa students
learning the hospitality trade in a practical setting. So dont
be surprised if an instructor openly discusses a mistake
made by the receptionist. The rooms on the ground level have
been furnished by the large, well-known hotel chains, while
the rooms above are designed to look like luxurious five-star
rooms. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 19 rooms (3star 49, 4-star 59, 5-star 74). PTHALGKXW
Hotel Central B-1, Spoorlaan 422, tel. (+31) 135 43 62
34, www.hotelcentraltilburg.nl. In the beginning of 2012

all of Centrals 22 rooms were completely renovated. The
new accommodation in these historic premises is clean and
tastefully decorated with wooden walls and blue and white
wallpaper and bedding. The rooms arent particularly large,
but sufficient for an overnight stay in the Tilburg city centre
and the location is ideal if you plan on using public transport as
the Central Station is located directly opposite the hotel. If you
have difficulty walking you may want to skip the free morning
meal as you have to climb incredibly steep stairs to reach the
breakfast room. Q 25 rooms. JHALGBKXW
Ibis Tilburg H-6, Dr. Hub Van Doorneweg 105, tel. (+31)
134 63 64 65, www.ibishotel.com. Wedged between an

industrial estate and a stately neighbourhood of villas, at
first glance Ibis doesnt seem like an attractive option. Yet,
things are seldom what they seem. Its 72 rooms may be
somewhat small, but they are incredibly clean, comfortable
and the beds have great mattresses. The staff is friendly,
parking is free and an outdoor terrace where you can fully
enjoy the sun in summer is available. Unfortunately wi-fi is
only free in the lobby, but double rooms with dividing doors
are ideal for families. The bus will take you to the centre in
eight minutes and a taxi ride will cost you 15. Q 72 rooms
(68 doubles 65 - 75, 4 family rooms 65 - 75). (65 - 72).
PHALBKXW hhhh
WHERE TO STAY
E18
WHERE TO STAY: OUT OF TOWN

Budget
Gastenverblijf Koningshoeven M-8, Eindhovenseweg 3,
Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 135 40 85 08, www.koningshoeven.

nl. In these hectic times its great to get some proper rest
now and again. One of the most beautiful places in Brabant,
the Trappist monastery of Koningshoeven Abbey, is therefore
an ideal location to spend the night. Peace reigns supreme
in the charming monastery gardens as well as the library. For
40 per day you can catch a glimpse of modern monastic
life, although the 18 resident monks live separate from their
guests. Two of the three communal meals are eaten in silence,
an atmosphere that these clergymen seem perfectly at ease
with. Visitors must comply with the house rules, as well as the
Golden Rule that nobody may speak after 21:00. The guest
quarters include 29 sober one person rooms. If you feel like
an even more ecclesiastical experience you can receive the
sacrament of penance or have a personal talk with one of
the monks. Q 29 singles (40/room). Tours: 09:00 - 10:30
& 15:00 - 16:30. Closed Mon. LG
A happy camper at Beekse Bergen Campground
Het Wapen van Tilburg C-1, Spoorlaan 362, tel. (+31)
Gust van Dijk E-2, Tivolistraat 22, tel. (+31) 135 44 44
135 42 26 92, www.hetwapenvantilburg.nl. Het Wapen

van Tilburg is a backpackers hostel rather than a budget
hotel. Its located diagonally opposite the railway station and
next door to hash paradise The Grass Company. The very
basic furnishings are almost spartan, with beds from IKEA
and very little else. Five of the seven rooms are doubles and
two can be reserved by groups. The communal showers
and toilets are in the corridor. If you dont mind all this, youve
found one of the cheapest ways to experience Tilburg. And
the bar is very cosy. QOpen 11:30 - 00:30, Thu 11:30 01:00, Sat, Sun 11:30 - 02:00. 7 rooms (22.50/person).
TJALGBKW
Bed & Breakfast

Appartement Henk Perdijk B-2, Noordstraat 97,
tel. (+31) 135 35 76 20, www.bedandbreakfast.nl. On
the top floor of the Viva Vintage second hand shop youll
find Henk Perdijks apartment. The studio is very spacious
and clean and, naturally, decorated with second hand goods
that may strike you as a bit artistic. The owners are incredibly hospitable exceeding all expectations and are at your
constant beck and call. As soon as you exit the front door
youre in a beautiful old street on the edge of the city centre
surrounded by pubs, shops and restaurants. The station
and the bus stop are within walking distance and a beautiful
garden is also at your disposal. Q 2 rooms (1 room 65/
person; 1 room 75/2 persons). JLGBX
Een der Koningshoeven M-8, Torentjeshoeve 7,
Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 651 99 19 52, w w w.

eenderkoningshoeven.nl. The beautiful Een Der Koningshoeven farm is situated near a forest on a country estate
that, as the name suggests, used to be part of one of the
five farms that King William II had built in 1832. Many of these
buildings have been used by the Cistercian Order, otherwise
known as Trappist monks, since 1881. However, two of the
holdings were sold to random buyers and one has been converted into lovely accommodation. There is space enough for
two people in this little house, which has been designed with
natural materials, but if youre with a large group you can make
use of the dormitory in the attic. Q (40/person). LGB
More hotels at
95, www.bedandbreakfasttilburg.nl. In the middle of the

inner city of Tilburg youll find B&B Gust van Dijk that offers
two rooms. These are both designed by artists and therefore
look super hip. One is called the Orange Submarine because
of the overpowering colour scheme and the City Park Greens
offers a beautiful view of the lovely Tivoli Park. The B&B is
located above a former shop that was built in 1937 based on
drawings by architect Frans Ruts, who helped a lot of Brabant
residents create their dream homes. In short, staying the
night at Gust van Dijk is an inspiring, artistic and, best of all,
restful experience. Q 2 rooms (doubles 90). JGBXW
Lelia en Michel Bakker J-5, Gildebroederstraat 60,
tel. (+31) 132 11 48 23, www.bedandbreakfast.nl. In the

middle of a residential area that borders the busy centre of
Tilburg is a friendly-looking house where three ordinary rooms
have been turned into accommodation: two double rooms
and a small single room. Due to the residential surroundings,
you may feel like youre staying the night with friends. The
house is spic and span and you can contribute to this by only
wearing the coloured slippers that are placed in front of you.
If the owners of this friendly B&B ever go bankrupt, theyll
still be able to find work as translators as this hospitable
duo speaks seven languages fluently. This, naturally, helps
make all their visitors feel very much at home. Q 3 rooms
(singles and doubles 35/person). JB
Pinos B-1, Stationsstraat 8, tel. (+31) 135 42 55 23.
Pinos bed and breakfast consists of three double rooms

with ensuite bathrooms. The building is located directly opposite the railway station and its about a five-minute walk
from the centre of town near the citys best pubs, shops and
restaurants. The B&B is housed above the Pinos restaurant,
which offers great atmosphere and international cuisine. Q
3 rooms (doubles 60). JGK
Out of town: Bed and Breakfast

Bed and Breakfast Berlicum O-7, Hoogstraat 8,
Berlicum, tel. (+31) 735 21 75 75, www.bedandbreakfastberlicum.com. This rural B&B is a small paradise in
Berlicum, a village half an hour away by car from Tilburg. Ine
van Heereveld is the friendly manager of its two comfortable,
stylishly decorated rooms that include televisions, private
bathrooms, free internet and coffee and tea. The beautiful
view from a very spacious garden (4000m2!) across the fields
and a babbling brook makes this an ideal place for relaxation.
Q (59 per room). TULGBX
WHERE TO STAY
De 2 Linden I-5, Kerkstraat 122, Oisterwijk, tel. (+31)
135 21 70 68, www.de2linden.nl. This well-appointed

accommodation offers the atmosphere of a five-star hotel,
but without the stuffiness. The 2 Linden only has one
apartment for a maximum of two people, but it has its own
entrance, a bedroom, sitting room and small kitchenette. Its
also possible to have your breakfast served in your sitting
room, which we highly recommend, as the breakfast is quite
good. The monumental square leads directly to the oldest
part of Oisterwijk and its only a couple of minutes walk to
the main street with its many pleasant terraces. Q 1 room
(apartments 95). G
De Keer N-7, Bossche weg 60, Den Dungen, tel. (+31)
736 13 40 54, www.bbdekeer.nl. If youve spent any time

travelling around the Netherlands youll have noticed that the
Dutch keep their yards in immaculate condition and this B&B
is no exception. De Keer, which dates back to 1720, has high
bushes all around a spacious lawn and a beautiful sitting
terrace where you can just make out the sounds of traffic
going past. The apartment is equally spacious and just like
the yard is in great condition. Its in the middle of the Dutch
heartland so bring your running shoes or rent a cycle from the
B&B to explore the countryside. Q 1 appartment (1 person
80, two persons 90). TB
Hoeve de Mertel M-7, Biezenmortelsestraat 8, Biezen-
mortel, tel. (+31) 135 11 17 64, www.hoevedemertel.nl.

In the middle of Dutch countryside youll find one of the many
long farms which are characteristic of the rural landscape. At
Hoeve De Mertel you can stay the night in a former granary or
a hay loft. Breakfast is included and this B&B also offers an
extensive lunch or dinner with local produce, so your stay will
be completely hassle-free. If you prefer to do your own cooking
in the large kitchen, thats also possible. The eight rooms
differ in size and the bathrooms and toilets are communal.
As you might expect, there are quite a few animals around.
Cats roam freely and Swifter sheep can be admired on the
meadows. Q 8 rooms (29 - 34/person). TGBKW
t Vaticaan M-8, Koestraat 23, Hilvarenbeek, tel.
(+31) 135 05 40 29, www.vgestel.nl. On the second

floor of the old rectory named The Vatican youll find this
B&B with two rooms. The breakfast is extensive and filling
and in the room theres even a well-stocked fridge for the
guests convenience. A coffee maker, to help you get started
in the morning is also a nice touch. The terrace and sauna
are communal and childrens facilities sufficient. The premises are only a short walk away from the best pubs and
restaurants on the historic Vrijthof square in Hilvarenbeek.
Q2 rooms (35). TLGB
Out of town: Hotels
Efteling Bosrijk M-7, Eftelingsestraat 7, Kaatsheuvel,
tel. (+31) 900 - 01 61, www.efteling.com. This lovely little

deal almost fools guests into thinking theve stepped into a
fairytale forest. Efteling Village Bosrijk is a splendid holiday
park with apartments and cottages that put one in mind of
a medieval village rather than a brand new park. All facilities
are exemplary, from the restaurant to the swimming pool
and the staff is friendly. Only a stones throw away lies the
Efteling, but Mister Sandman prefers to live far away from all
the upheaval. With his owl Houdoe he lives in his small, quiet
castle in the middle of the lake. At nightfall this is a magical
spot that will enchant children and adults alike. Q Prices
from 99. THA6ULGBKXCW
Efteling Hotel M-7, Horst 31, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31)
900 01 61, www.efteling.com. The Efteling Hotel is a

perfect reflection of the amusement park: a bit like a fairy
tale and very busy at times. Dont be surprised when during
breakfast one of the parks characters pops up to run off with
your kids, leaving heaps of plates with half eaten sandwiches
in their wake. In this hotel the little ones are the boss and they
clearly relish this role. You wont find much peace and quiet
here, but the beautifully arranged rooms will make a quick
slumber easy. If not, theres always non-stop fairy tales on
EftelingTelevision! Q(30 doubles 109, 68 comfort, 4 tower
rooms, 20 themed suites). PTHAULBKXW
Hotel Gilze-Rijen L-8, Klein Zwitserland 8, Gilze, tel.

(+31) 161 45 49 51, www.hotelgilzerijen.nl. The fourstar hotel Van der Valk Gilze-Rijen is exactly halfway between
Tilburg and Breda, which means that each of these Brabant
towns is only a 15-minute drive away. The hotel was built in
a country house style, which is typical of Van der Valk hotels,
not to mention the enormous toucan on the roof. The majority of the 210 rooms have been furnished according to the
latest fashion, although guests who enjoy a bit more luxury
can use their credit cards to gain access to an even more
luxurious suite. The hotel also boasts a pool, Jacuzzi, sauna,
Turkish steam bath and in-house casino - a major bonus. Q
210 rooms (standard, comfort and luxury suites 79 - 149).
POTHA6UFLGBKDXCW hhhh
Waalwijk Hotel Burg van de Klokkenlaan 55, Waal-
wijk, tel. (+31) 416 33 60 45, www.hotelwaalwijk.nl.

This multifunctional hotel in the centre of Waalwijk caters
to businesspeople and the primarily Dutch visitors of the
nearby amusement park. The spacious family rooms provide
added value to this hotel, which is nevertheless in dire need
of a redecoration. The rather shabby and dated exterior
isnt exactly encouraging and the sagging mattresses will
cause you to roll to the middle of your bed, but the extensive
breakfast buffet is excellent. Q 61 rooms (doubles 64).
HALBKW hhhh
De Druiventros M-8, Bosscheweg 11, Berkel-Enschot,
tel. (+31) 347 75 04 38, www.hoteldedruiventros.nl.

This authentic family hotel offers plenty of the friendliness
which is typical of the province of Brabant. Some would say the
dated decor has seen better days, others will be impressed
with the traditional hospitality, the comfortable bathrooms
and unfailingly friendly staff. Whichever way you look at it, De
Druiventros got its name in Napoleonic times, when there
was a guesthouse at this very spot and a wine depot across
the road. These days youre better off with a room at the
back of this large hotel, as the horse-drawn carts have been
replaced by fairly heavy traffic. Modern conveniences include
a restaurant, bar, free parking at the back, wireless internet
access and laundry service. Entertainment includes a bowling
alley. Q 56 rooms (doubles 97.50). PTH6ULG
BKXW hhhh
Tilburgers like to relax with a good book
Spring/Summer 2013
E19
E20
RESTAURANTS
With a population of thousands of international students,
Tilburg isnt exactly a Mecca for foodies and gourmets,
but local restaurants do cater to pretty much every ethnic
taste. Its possible to sip margaritas at siesta time and savour souvlaki for supper. And compared to other European
cities, typical tourist traps are relatively rare. By the way,
tipping isnt mandatory, but its a nice gesture to leave
10% for good service. Prices that appear in parentheses
indicate the average cost of a main course only.
Symbol key
P Air conditioning
E Live music
S Take away
T Child friendly
I Fireplace
X Smoking section
W Free wireless internet 6 Pets allowed
Arabic
Sarban I-5, Besterdring 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 35 67,
www.sarban.nl. Even if Afghan cuisine doesnt ring any

bells, anyone who has enjoyed a meal at Sarban will leave
the restaurant full of praise and admiration. The starters and
mains consist of several dishes with a variety of appetisers.
The service is very friendly and the staff is keen to explain
whats on offer. The Sarban logo depicts camels and theyre
also to be found in photographs and statues all over the
restaurant. Strangely enough its main table is at the back
and is typically Afghan. Think of a raised stage with gorgeous
cushions on which guests sit cross-legged. Diners remove
their shoes and beach wraps are available for women wearing short skirts. Also a perfect place to smoke a water pipe.
QOpen 16:30 - 22:00. (27). TGK
Asian
Easy Wok & Go D-3, Juliana van Stolbergstraat 23, tel.
(+31) 135 80 03 79, www.easywokengo.nl. This chain

of Asian restaurants doesnt owe its success to any attempt
at style or unique interior dcor. The small plastic tables
and chairs definitely wont attract diners out for a romantic
candlelit dinner. This is a fast food wok restaurant where
appetising meals are prepared and packed to go within 10
minutes, which is a welcome change from the usual plate of
chips or a hot dog. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 15:00 - 21:30.
(5 - 10). PJBKS
Belgian
Anvers B-3, Oude Markt 8, tel. (+31) 135 83 35 33,
www.oudemarkt.nl. The row of restaurants on this square

is often called Antwerp on the Oude Markt. Caf Anvers
is the largest bar-restaurant of the bunch and with some
imagination it might just put one in mind of Antwerp. The
outdoor seating area is almost always full and inside youll
discover an exuberant atmosphere. The terrace affords diners a great view of the Jugendstil buildings by architects Jan
van der Valk and Jos Donders. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Mon,
Sun 12:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 01:00. (13 - 18).
PTJABKW
Child friendly
Etenstijd J-6, Professor van Buchemlaan 4, tel. (+31)
135 37 26 50, www.etenstijd.nl. From the outside this

restaurant looks like an English mansion, yet the interior is
reminiscent of an old-fashioned ocean liner. In the middle
theres an enormous clock which you can walk through to
access the balcony. This may sound romantic like a scene
from Titanic, but Etenstijd is hardly a suitable location for an
intimate dinner for two. It is, however, ideal for families and
groups who can get stuck into an all you can eat offer for a
set price within a two-hour time frame. The extensive buffet
offers some refined dishes as well as plenty of stuff for the
little ones. The cellar also houses a playground. QOpen
17:00 - 22:30, Fri 17:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 23:00.
(25). PTAGBKXW
Chinese
I Pin Ke H-5, Bredaseweg 105, tel. (+31) 135 43 41 05,
www.ipinke.nl. This isnt just the best Chinese restaurant

in Tilburg, but probably one of the best in the Netherlands.
The location isnt the greatest, but its more than worth the
detour. Put aside the horrible, typically Chinese kitschy interior
and get ready to feast. Although some people swear by the
egg rolls, our favourites have to be the Peking duck, Tipan
dishes and crab cocktail with, yes, real crab. I Pin Ke actually delivers that which many similar establishments merely
promise. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (2,30-52). TLGKS
New China Crown I-5, Wandelboslaan 40, tel. (+31)
134 67 30 55. Not unlike students the world over, Hollands

young scholars dont have a reputation as being good
cooks. This Chinese restaurant cleverly uses this fact having
established itself at a strategic distance from the University.
Takeaway dishes are the most popular, which is hardly surprising considering that a graveyard at midnight exudes more
atmosphere than this place. The food, however, is delicious,
especially if you go through the trouble of asking the chef to
prepare your dishes in the traditional Chinese manner with
proper spices. Q (10 - 15). KS
Dutch
Boerke Mutsaers H-5, Vijverlaan 2, tel. (+31) 135 90
Cafe Zomerlust in Tilburg Noord
08 08, www.boerkemutsaers.nl. Although this restaurant

has been owned by the Mutsaers family since 1644 you
shouldnt expect antique furnishings in this modern multifunctional building. The restaurant part is not particularly
large, but has a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere and puts one
more in mind of the English countryside than a location
near the Tilburg West train station. The unusual menu
covers many regional dishes, including the popular peppered hare, which has been prepared here according to
the same secret family recipe for four centuries. QOpen
09:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:30 - 21:00. Closed Mon. (19).
PTHAULGBKXW
RESTAURANTS
Bommel Beer H-6, OIympiaplein 1, tel. (+31) 135 82
03 44, www.beren.nl. This restaurant, which is part of a

national chain, is located in the same building as Euroscoop,
Tilburgs largest cinema. Unfortunately, the large scale of the
massive hall doesnt contribute anything to the restaurants
atmosphere. If anything, it feels like a theme park restaurant.
A couple of stuffed bears have been placed here and there
and an attempt has been made to imitate some kind of
medieval castle interior, but it doesnt really work. It may be a
fine place for families to have an affordable bite to eat before
or after a film, but couples out for a romantic dinner for two
are better off skipping this place. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00.
(11 - 16). PTUBK
Het Huys van Voskens D-3, Heuvel 5, tel. (+31) 135
43 98 18, www.huysvanvoskens.nl. If you have a bit of

cash to spend and enjoy culinary perfection then pay a visit
to Het Huys van Voskens. Everything here is slightly different
from typical restaurants and the stylish entrance alone is
more reminiscent of a five-star hotel than a multi-functional
building. Seasonal dishes like venison make this place particularly attractive and the freshness of the food is illustrated
by the oysters bathing in the hallway. The sommelier is also
eager to help you choose the proper bottle of wine with your
meal. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, za 10:00 - 22:00. Gesloten ma.
(20 - 25). JAUGBK
Klein Tilburg I-5, Beukenstraat 40, tel. (+31) 134

68 30 12, w w w.kleintilburg.nl. This restaurant is
located in a quiet residential area just outside the city
centre. The name Klein Tilburg is appropriate because
once youre inside youll encounter an atmosphere that
evokes the citys heydays. The owner is obviously proud
of his town as old newspapers adorn the walls and tables
are cu t in the shape of well-known Tilburg buildings.
You can have lunch, dinner or high tea and on warmer
days you can even have a barbecue outside. Q Open
Wed, Thu 16:30 - 24:00, Fri 12:00 - 01:00, Sat 16:30 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (12 - 16).
PTUBKS
Langeboom B-2, Nieuwlandstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135 44
14 26, www.langeboom.nl. Caf Langeboom is located at

beautiful intersection in Tilburg where you can stretch out and
enjoy some people watching as soon as the sun comes out.
You can however also take advantage of the garden behind
the building, which also serves as a terrace. Family-run Langeboom has a lovely lunch menu and we highly recommend the
carpaccio roll. Classic Dutch dishes are on the menu in the
evening and even a dish like mashed potatoes and Brussels
sprouts, that makes most local children gag unreservedly,
tastes heavenly here. QOpen 11:45 - 24:00. Closed Mon.
(9 - 14). JGBK
Slagroom D-3, Piusplein 6a, tel. (+31) 135 82 00
70, www.cafeslagroom.nl. Caf Slagroom is an oldfashioned Dutch farmers kitchen with a checkered floor
and small cur tains lining the ceilings and the kitchen
shelves. You could almost imagine a family with nine children sitting at the table being served kale with sausage
from a large, orange casserole dish. Thankfully, Slagroom
has modernised and its menu extends beyond traditional
Dutch cuisine. You can come here for homemade stews,
pork tenderloin with brie or even a European catfish
with smoked bacon. And where women may entertain
themselves with a Tilburg-style high tea that includes
traditional koetjesrepen (a kind of chocolate), men will
enjoy i ts beer selection, greasy dishes and football.
Q Open 10:00 - 02:00, Mon, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. (14 19). JGBKX
The Tilburg Fair

If you enjoy enormous fairs, you cant afford to
miss Tilburg Kermis. This is the largest fair in the
Benelux nations offering between 230 and 250
attractions every year. Its also unique in that the
whole city centre is closed off to accommodate
it creating a fairground 4.5km long. Each year
the Tilburg Kermis attracts more than one million
visitors which makes it one of the best attended
events in the Netherlands.
The history of the fair dates back to 1570 when
it began as an annual market to celebrate the consecration day of Tilburgs patron saint. The word
kermis developed from kerkmis or kerkemisse,
meaning church service. In its 440 year history,
Tilburg Kermis has grown into a leading event with
loads of modern fairground attractions, many of
which are often unveiled for the very first time at
the ten-day celebration. But theres also space for
older attractions at the so-called nostalgic kermis.
You can find old-fashioned attractions, which are
actually still pretty popular, especially with kids.
In addition to the hundreds of rides and games
on offer, the rest of the city centre gets involved in
the event as well. Pubs and restaurants organise
large-scale stages, DJ-sets and special theme
evenings. There are afternoons with reduced
prices, especially for the disabled and for kids
and on the the famous Pink Monday. This event,
which brings gays and lesbians from all over the
Benelux nations to Tilburg, has turned this particular Monday into the busiest day of the entire fair.
Many artists perform on Pink Monday on one of
many stages in town or at special party tents and
in the towns gay bars.
Tilburg Kermis even boasts its own radio station. Kermis FM, which can be received on 107
FM only during the kermis and exclusively in the
Tilburg area, offers a mix of information about the
event, traffic info and typical kermis music. When
the full ten days of partying are over, the kermis
is traditionally buried. The rides and games close
at 22:00 and a funeral procession makes its way
through the town towards the Pius Harbour where
the locals say goodbye to the Kermis with plenty of
noise and a 15-minute fireworks display. In 2013
Tilburg Kermis will be held from Friday, July 20 up
to and including Sunday, July 28. Photo: Lya Cattel
Spring/Summer 2013
E21
E22
RESTAURANTS
Puur Mercure D-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 135 35
46 75, www.puur-mercure.nl. If youre looking for a modern,

trendy restaurant with a matching menu, this is the place.
The businesslike interior where white, brown and dark grey
tones prevail make for a calm, yet refined atmosphere. The
menu lists such dishes as corn chicken fillet, jumbo shrimp
and salads, all for affordable prices. Because this restaurant
is connected to the hotel of the same name, youll find plenty
of business travellers and tourists here. If youre into the
brown stuff, sample a dram of single malt from the bars
extensive collection of whiskeys. QOpen 09:00 - 01:00.
(13 - 18). JABK
Fast food & Quick eats

Tilburg students with well-deserved ice cream
Lya Cattel
European
Auberge du Bonheur H-5, Bredaseweg 441, tel. (+31)
134 68 69 42, www.bonheurhorecagroep.nl. Although the

first impression of this villa just outside the centre of Tilburg
is rather decadent, as soon as the waiter welcomes you on
the terrace you feel right at home. This place isnt really posh,
but the service and menu are certainly on the upmarket side
and the wearing of trainers and workout wear will definitely
earn you a few stares here. QOpen 07:00 - 22:00, Sat
08:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. AGBKX
Bistro St. Sjaak I-5, Heuvelring 118, tel. (+31) 135 90

62 68, www.stsjaak.nl. This restaurant is operated by an
eager young newcomer in the Tilburg catering industry. Its
a bistro that offers culinary classics, originating from France,
Italy, Spain and England, but with a contemporary twist. The
dishes on the menu vary regularly, which makes eating here a
bit of an adventure. The menu is not very extensive, but offers
plenty of choice to please everyone. The wines, moreover,
perfectly complement the dishes offered on the menu. We
personally loved the steak tartare. The interior design is airy
and sober and thanks to the open plan kitchen, customers are
able to watch the chefs every move. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00.
Closed Mon, Tue. (15 - 18). JAGBX
La Place I-5, Heuvel 25 - 26, tel. (0900) 235 83 63,
www.laplace.nl. La Place at de Heuvel is the second

franchise of this large Dutch restaurant chain. Its concept is
simple; freshly prepared dishes can be ordered in a market-like
setting that makes the senses run ahead before youve even
ordered anything. After ordering, you can enjoy your meal in
a fast-food-like ambiance. This restaurant is brand new, as
one can clearly tell. For a much needed authentic Tilburg feel,
enlarged black and white photos of the Heuvelplein have
been put up on the wall. The food (including the smoothies
and coffee) in La Place is freshly prepared and very tasty,
especially considering how cheap it is. For those who feel
like having dinner or lunch during or after shopping, this is
the place to be. However, if youre looking for ambiance and
an extensive menu, better avoid this restaurant. QOpen
10.00 - 22.00. (10 - 15). PJAVGBXW
LOrangerie D-3, Heuvel 39, tel. (+31) 135 43 11 32,
www.lorangerietilburg.nl. LOrangerie offers a diverse menu

in combination with a domestically-inspired interior. Here youll
find dishes such as bitterballen (a type of local croquette)
with salmon, a fishermans catch of the day or stuffed peppers. The oak cupboards against the wall, the buzz of guests
talking and the warm colours all make this place a fine choice
for a meal. The fully-stocked wine racks are also impressive.
QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 13:00 - 22:00. (18 - 23).
TJULBK
Broodje Jantje D-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 2, tel. (+31) 135

49 96 00, www.broodjejantje.nl. If youre looking for an
authentic snack from Tilburg, you have to taste Broodje Jantje.
Its a kind of hamburger with sauce thats made according to
a local recipe and it has been eaten in the city for generations
by people of all ages. In addition to the roll, you can also buy
fries, croquettes and frikandellen to truly experience Dutch
fast food culture. QOpen 12:00 - 20:00, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 04:00,
Sat 15:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (2 - 5). JS
De Ritz D-2, Heuvelring 43, tel. (+31) 135 43 06 66,

www.ritz-broodjes.nl. This place offers little ambience,
but it does sell really tasty hot and cold sandwiches. Specialised in Surinamese delicaties. All the local businesses
in the surrounding area come to De Ritz for lunch and in the
evening you wont find the kind of people that enjoy a kebab
or a hamburger, but rather the kind of person that wants a
healthy meal. QOpen 11:00 - 20:00, Thu 11:00 - 22:00,
Fri 12:30 - 03:30, Sat 11:00 - 03:30, Sun 12:30 - 01:00.
(3 - 6). JVGBS
Snack Factory I-6, Olympiaplein 3, tel. (+31) 138 22

38 34, www.snackfactory. People who regularly have a
snack while visiting the cinema will be pleasantly surprised by
the trendy atmosphere in the industrial-style Snack Factory.
Fashionable, long purple benches, soft lighting, black-tiled
flooring and high windows lend this hip place an air of chic
modernity. That said, as far as the foods concerned, its no
more than a contemporary snack shack serving the usual
chips, sausages and burgers. If youd like something that
hasnt been deep fried, try the wraps. QOpen 11:30 - 20:00,
Sat, Sun 15:00 - 20:00. PTGX
Snitz I-6, Nieuwstraat 124, tel. (+31) 624 88 26 60. This

place is a must for frites fanatics. Youll find this chip shop par
excellence in one of the working class areas just outside the
city centre. The cheerful owner fries the best chips for miles
around with a sense of humour, pride and craftsmanship. Avoid
Sundays or queue up behind the last local around 18:00 as
its rush hour at Snitz! Q TLKS
French
Hofstede De Blaak H-6, Dussenpad 1 - 3, tel. (+31)
134 63 88 99, www.hofstededeblaak.nl. Some secrets

you dont really want to share. Hofstede De Blaak, an authentic English-style manor house, is one such a secret, but well
share it anyway at the risk of inspiring hundreds of hungry
tourists moving en masse to this hidden treasure located
in a rather boring suburb. Free parking at the entrance,
a large terrace, pleasant furnishings and a staff that fully
understands its profession. A great variety of extraordinary
dishes are on offer, a number of which can be sampled in a
reasonably priced set menu. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (23 28). TALGBKX
RESTAURANTS
Le Bistro C-3, Juliana van Stolbergstraat 6, tel. (+31)
135 35 13 42, www.lebistro.nl. Le Bistro is a small and

cosy restaurant as the name would suggest. Each dish is a
feast for the eyes and thanks to the open-plan kitchen you can
see exactly how the chef prepares the coquilles, foie gras or
sweetbread. If you have the time make sure to check out the
restaurants website where the chef gives cooking tips in an
amusing short video. Tilburg doesnt have many restaurants
with unusual menus, but Le Bistro is a great exception to the
rule. Food is not cheap, but very tasty. QOpen 17:30 - 22:30.
Closed Mon, Tue. (25 - 30). PJALBK
Lucebert B-4, Schouwburgring, tel. (+31) 135 43 25
15, www.theaterstilburg.nl/lucebert. if youre indecisive

about going out for a posh meal or a bite to eat in a more
casual caf, you can satisfy both options at Lucebert. To the
left of the entrance youll find a chic restaurant and to the
right a cosy bistro. Its location next to the main entrance of
Theaters Tilburg means that many a culture vulture, including
posh folk over 60, can be spotted here before or after a play.
The well off wont regret the three-course menu in the restaurant with its linen covered tables and beautiful dcor, while the
budget-minded will be happy with the cheap dish of the day
in the relaxed bistro. From the elaborately decorated walls,
the deceased poet and painter Lucebert observes the goings
on here, but bear in mind that the establishment named in
his honour is only open on nights when performances are
scheduled in the theatre. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. (24 - 28).
PJAULGBKX
Riddershoeve M-7, t Zwaantje 1, tel. (+31) 135 33
12 39, www.riddershoeve.nl. This former inn is now a

restaurant where dining is a pleasure. Its situated on the
town square of the small village of Berkel-Enschot, which is
cycling-distance from the centre of Tilburg. A dinner here isnt
complete without a so-called wine-deal, which will ensure that
each dish is served with the proper wine. Although the old
inn has received a 21st-century upgrade, the red tiled floor
still reminds one of the distant past. If you want to truly enjoy
traditional Brabant cuisine, then be sure to try the foie gras.
QOpen 17:30 - 23:00. (15 - 20). AB
Sjieque D-3, Sint Josephstraat 138, tel. (+31) 135 43
20 85, www.restaurantsjieque.nl. The dcor of the Sjieque

(Chic) Restaurant is true to its name. Your coat will be taken
to the cloakroom while you enjoy a glass of bubbly and are
treated to a tasty appetiser. The glasses are so clean, they
sparkle, the cutlery is simply immaculate and the napkins are
made of pure linen. The purple and silver interior and the high
ceilings make guests feel like royalty and although the prices
are higher than those at an average caf, a meal at Sjieque
wont cost you an arm and a leg. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00.
(25 - 30). PJABKW
2013 becomes The Year 013

Its a simple idea. Promote
2013 to The Year 013, see who
wants to join in and together
put Tilburg on the map with 13
cultural events on the 13th day
of each month. No other city has
ever adopted a year this way.
The reactions from a number of diverse cultural
institutions were overwhelming. Poets, students,
photographers, musicians, city guides, high
school students, journalists, graphic designers
and hospitality entrepreneurs from all corners
of Tilburg will participate to make The Year 013
a wonderfully festive year. The year is unique
in the Netherlands as it is spontaneously given
substance by the city itself.
The willingness to collaborate, the proudness of
the city, the support from all walks of life in so
many diverse disciplines among professionals
and amateurs, young and old, shows that the city
is an ideal breeding ground for vibrant ideas and
a city that embraces creators. The Year 013 will
be a year full of creative initiatives and surprising
collaborations. For more information visit www.
hetjaar013.nl.
Greek
Zorba de Griek D-2, Heuvelring 33, tel. (+31) 135
35 86 96, www.zorbadegriektilburg.nl. In contrast to

the current turmoil in Greece, Zorba the Greek exudes an
atmosphere of peace and calm and although the name
doesnt suggest a high level of creativity, the chefs confound
this premise. As soon as you enter youll be greeted warmheartedly with a glass of ouzo that theyve been serving to
all new customers ever since the restaurant was established
in 1985. Try the traditional giouvarlakia meatball soup.
QOpen 17:00 - 23:00, Sun 16:30 - 23:00. Closed Tue.
(15 - 19). TJALK
Grill
Bosporus A-4, Korvelseweg 188, tel. (+31) 135 35 90
20. Bosporus motto is something for everyone and rarely

has a slogan been more on the mark than at this place that
offers a simple interior. This upmarket snack shack practises
European integration by serving Turkish and Greek as well
as Italian and Dutch food. Make sure to try the deep fried
fire-eater, although were not quite sure yet what the exact
ingredients are. Q JALVKS
De Reunie D-3, Heuvelring 220, tel. (+31) 135 36 35
Candle light and flowers at De Burgerij
35, www.reunietilburg.nl. Meat-eating and drinking have

always gone hand in hand and lets face it: theres nothing
better than an alcoholic beverage after a good steak. The
trendy waiters at this somewhat kitschy pub dont just serve
a selection of bottled beers, but also the tasty Erdinger White
on draught. But if you think beers a bit too ordinary then forgo
the peasant brew and try one of 16 different cocktails at a
price, which would barely buy you an ice cube at some clubs
in Amsterdam. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00, Fri 17:00 - 01:30,
Sat 16:30 - 01:30, Sun 16:30 - 24:00. (15 - 20). PT
JAIEBKW
Spring/Summer 2013
E23
E24
RESTAURANTS
Health food
Indonesian
Tuinhuis Culinair H-5, Westermarkt 5, tel. (+31) 134
De Kleine Indo I-5, Professor Romeinstraat 19, tel.
Historic taverns
Gember & Sereh D-3, Heuvel 3, tel. (+31) 135 36 05
63 48 68, www.tuinhuisculinair.nl. Youll find t Tuinhuis

(the Garden House) at the fringe of a not particularly appealing shopping centre. As the name suggests, the owners enjoy
outdoor living and the menu theyve created from candied steak
and teriyaki dishes to steamed duck breast and tempura fried
Dutch herring reflect their travels around the globe. All of these
eclectic dishes are prepared with dedication and love in an
open-plan kitchen. Unfortunately, the junior staff could benefit
from a kick to their respective backsides. QOpen , Mon 12:00
- 18:00, Tue, Wed 11:00 - 20:30, Thu 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat
11:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. (18 - 23). TULBKSW
St. Petrus M-8, Gelderstraat 1, Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31)
135 05 21 66, www.petrus-paulus.nl. Next to the Church of

Saint Peter youll find the comfortable terrace of Saint Peters
Inn. The fitting name as well as the furnishings seem to have
borrowed much from the church next door, but in a modern
fashion. A priest delivers a sermon from his pulpit in the middle
of the room and on the left hand side of the restaurant you could
confess to the greed which is bound to overwhelm you when
looking at the excellent menu. The same owner runs Taverne
Paulus next door, which is more popular with the younger
generation. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. (25 - 30). AUBW
IJstijd Tilburg Korvelseweg 259, tel. (+31) 135 71
12 68, ijstijdtilburg.nl. Although weve never carried out a

thorough investigation, it seems impossible to us that there
could be an even bigger ice-cream parlour in Holland than
this one. The trendy, colourful interior of this establishment
is minimalist, yet every detail is significant. There are pictures
of Italian celebrities on the walls and the light fixtures are
shaped like ice crystals in case you needed a reminder of
what youre here for. You can also enjoy one or more of the
dozens of homemade flavours of ice cream on the terrace in
the back. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. Open
from April till September. PTLGBXSW
Intermezzo D-2, Heuvering 31, tel. (+31) 135 44 89
22, www.intermezzotilburg.nl. If you want to taste the

most delicious, home made ice cream in the city, then look
no further than Intermezzo. Unfortunately, the clean and
sleek salon on Heuvelring is only open for a few months every
year, but in the spring and summer local Tilburgers queue up
here for the Italian-style frosty stuff. Youll find flavours like
grandmas apple pie and white chocolate as well as ciambella,
fruitella and green apple. Although seating is available, most
customers take their ice cream cones with them. QOpen
12:00 - 22:00. (1 - 5). PJGBS
85, www.gember-sereh.nl. You can order your food as spicy

as you like it at the Gember & Sereh Indonesian speciality
restaurant, but youre personally responsible for any pain and
discomfort should your burning tongue and watering eyes
cause you any problems. The tables arent pushed together
due to lack of space like at many restaurants. Instead, a
large room full of tables and chairs with high backs help
keep your conversations private. Recommended. QOpen
16:00 - 22:00. (17 - 22). JGBKS
International
Aan Tafel! J-5, J.P. Coenstraat 71, tel. (+31) 135 77 11
Ice cream
Join the crowd at a local terrace
(+31) 135 81 29 90, www.dekleine-indo.nl. This small

Indonesian restaurant is hidden behind Ringbaan Oost, but is
well worth the hike. The dcor borrows heavily from traditional
Indonesian furnishings, but with a modern twist. The window
sills are covered in Wajang dolls, the tables are set with bamboo
placemats and, true to tradition, the staff wear sarongs. The
foods authentically Indonesian, prepared the way old Javan
women might, but in a professional manner. Several types
of satay form the core of this traditional menu and typically
Indonesian drinks like klappa muda (rose syrup) and tjendol
(coconut milk) are also served here. QOpen 16:00 - 21:30,
Sat, Sun 16:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (11 - 16). TUKS
Corne Hannink
37, www.allemaalaantafel.nl. Every Dutch child has heard

their mother call out aan tafel! which literally means to the
table and thats the concept of this restaurant: an eating
establishment for families. Theres a special childrens corner,
a changing room and an elaborate childrens menu. Even the
seating area looks like an original Tilburg living room, which is
perhaps fitting as Aan Tafel! is located in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. The food is prepared as lovingly as it
is at home, but with the professional skills of a top-notch chef.
QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (13 - 17). TLGBK
De Kievitshoeve F-4, Nijkerkstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135
70 51 05, www.dekievitshoeve.nl. More than a century

ago farmer Peerke van de Staak established a pub miles
from the city centre of Tilburg. A hundred year later this
establishment is now called Reeshofs Livingroom after
the surrounding estate. Some of the main courses sound a
bit pretentious like the caramelized duck breast and Iberico
pork roulaux (rolls) and the chef hasnt put much effort into
the kids menu. Unfortunately, the staff arent very capable
either and our food was served lukewarm. All told, in spite of
its excellent location, the beautiful building and terrace, this
place could use some improvement. QOpen 14:00 - 21:30,
Sun 12:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon. (18 - 22). TBK
De Rooi Pannen I-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135
95 56 50, www.derooipannen.nl. There are nearly 8,000

students at De Rooij Pannen, one of the largest education
centres for the hospitality industry in Holland. No less than
five different restaurants as well as a hotel have been established in a distinctive old convent, where the students learn
the skills of their professions in a practical setting. Dont
worry therefore, if a teacher turns up to correct your waiter if
he makes a mistake. Fortunately the food that reaches your
table has already been deemed fit for human consumption in
the kitchen and everything that ends up on your plate tastes
superb. All of this is available for only a fraction of the price
youd pay in a comparable restaurant. It is, however, closed
during school holidays. QOpen 12:00 - 13:30, 17:30 - 19:00.
Closed Sat, Sun. (15 - 20). THAULGKW
RESTAURANTS
Prise dEau F-6, Gilzerbaan 400, tel. (+31) 134 67 23
32, www.prisedeau-golf.nl. As far as the surroundings are

concerned, there are few more attractive places in Tilburg
for lunch or dinner than Prise dEau. This restaurant is full of
ambience and its staff know how to pamper their patrons.
The only disadvantage is that you are supposed to be a
member of the golf club to enjoy a meal here. But considering
that nobody checks for an ID badge or a secret handshake,
you can put on your glad rags and enjoy the Veluwe duck
breast with citrus oil and moscato sauce even if youre not
sure what that means.. QOpen 10:00 - 21:30. (13 - 20).
TALGBKXW
Italian
Eataly D-3, St. Josephstraat 136, tel. (+31) 135 44 28
44, www.eataly-tilburg.nl. The name Eataly pokes a little

fun at Italians, but in truth, youd have a hard time finding a
more authentic place. Beautiful modern leather chairs adorn
every table in the colours of the Italian flag and the warm
welcome youll receive is Italian hospitality at its best. Andrea
Bocelli sings to the guests via the sound system and of course
there are plenty of pizzas and pastas on the very extensive
traditional menu. The knowledgeable staff kindly squat down
to talk to their guests and a large garden with a sizable terrace
is available behind the restaurant. Try the antipasto Eataly.
You wont be disappointed. QOpen 12:00 - 22:30. Closed
Mon. (17 - 22). JAGKW
LOlivo D-2, Heuvel 41, tel. (+31) 135 42 67 31, www.
lolivo.nl. LOlivo combines one of the worlds best-loved

cuisines - Italian - with one that rarely ends up on anyones
radar - Swiss. Even after a number of visits to this cosy,
romantic restaurant, were still not sure how to judge the
place. You might praise the most expensive meal on the
menu, Livornese fish, yet be annoyed by the burnt rosti, one
of the simplest and least complicated dishes it offers. In short,
when the staff and chef are on their game, this is a brilliant
place to be. At other times its simply far too expensive for
the rather scanty portions it serves. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00.
Closed Tue. (24 - 28). JABK
Japanese & Sushi

Enjoii D-1, NS-Plein 38, tel. (+31) 135 42 11 75, www.
tasteofjoii.nl. Youll find Enjoii at the NS Plein (Railway Square)

not far from the centre of town. Its the latest in a long line of
sushi restaurants that have recently sprung up all over Tilburg.
The restaurant consists of a sushi section, a buffet area and
a place where you can sit together around the grill while your
food is being juggled right before your eyes. The buffet menu
is very straightforward, but the sushi offers more than a few
surprises. For example, you can order frushi (sushi with bits
of fruit), which has just blown over from the United States.
The restaurant also offers an interesting view of the old rail
yard. QOpen 13:00 - 22:00. (21). JGK
Suki D-3, Piusplein 55, tel. (+31) 135 44 91 28, www.
sushisuki.nl. Sushi Suki is a kind of square cafeteria that

desperately tries to imitate Japanese style with four rice
paper columns. The menu offers more than 100 types of
sushi and the food is quite tasty. In contrast to the country
of the Rising Sun, tea here is served in enormous pitchers
and during the week you can order all-you-can-eat for a fixed
price. The friendly staff will also welcome you if you simply
want a few small appetisers, for which you wont have to
pay the full price. The chefs also give you as much wasabi
as you can handle with your sushi. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00,
Mon, Sun 16:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 22:30. (23.50).
PTJALGKSW
Tilburgs restaurants often offer stylish dcor
Mediterranean
Maana D-3, Zwaanstraat 18, tel. (+31) 135 45 34 37,
www.tapasbarmanana.nl. Given the often dreary weather

in the Netherlands, the Dutch enjoy escaping to warmer
climates. The Maana tapas bar fills this niche perfectly with
tasty Spanish mini dishes. Although the restaurant is located
in a rather gloomy alley, locals know where to find it because
its always busy here. With a wall to wall canopy and flamenco
dancers on the canvasses on the walls, the atmosphere is
definitely Iberian. In summer the barbecue is lit every day
and everyone sits outside. QOpen 16:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat
16:00 - 01:00. Closed Tue. (3 - 8). JUGBK
Mexican
Tortillas D-3, Heuvel 47, tel. (+31) 135 45 41 55,
www.tortillas.nl. Close the front door and youll think youre
in a tropical paradise surrounded by decorations with strong
and vibrant colours like parrots, traditional dishes, Mexican
rugs and all kinds of bits and pieces which contribute to the
restaurants atmosphere. The menu is good and affordable
and all the dishes are mouthwatering including the Cocoloco
dessert. The restaurant boasts a big, beautiful courtyard
garden which provides lots of privacy from the city in summer.
If you prefer people watching take a seat on the terrace. Mind
you, it gets busy - so dont be late. Make sure to try the fruity
sangria, guaranteed to put you in a good mood. QOpen
17:00 - 23:00. (13 - 18). JABK
Out of town
Boslust M-7, Schoorstraat 37, Udenhout, tel. (+31)
135 11 18 72, www.brasserieboslust.nl. In the wooded
area surrounding Udenhout youll find Boslust, a caf that
was founded in1897, which is now a real tourist attraction.
Play mini-golf, visit the playground with your children or take
a bike ride through the Loonse and Drunense Duinen (natural
dunes). The menu has something for everyone including
food for kids and vegetarians. Boslust is also an ideal point
of departure for anyone who wants to explore the citys rural
surroundings. QOpen 10:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon. (14 - 18).
TUGBKX
De Druiventros M-8, Bosscheweg 11, Berkel-Enschot,
tel. (+31) 347 75 04 38, www.hoteldedruiventros.nl.

In contrast to the hotels rather dated accommodation, its
restaurant, De Druiventros (Bunch of Grapes), is surprisingly
contemporary. Although not exactly haute cuisine, youll get
good value for money at this French/Dutch inspired restaurant. The corny furnishings may make the place look a bit
chaotic, but families with kids will feel very much at home here.
The genuinely friendly staff are also a definite plus. QOpen
11:30 - 21:00. (16 - 21). PTA6ULGBKXW
Spring/Summer 2013
E25
E26
RESTAURANTS
Pancakes
De Pannekoekenbakker C-3, Heuvelstraat 40, tel.
(+31) 135 36 14 26, www.pannekoekenbakker-tilburg.

nl. Tilburgs city centre is full of ultra modern buildings, but
halfway down the busiest shopping street is a narrow alley
which leads to a coach house from 1897. Its nothing short
of a miracle that these premises survived the forces of
modernisation that altered neighbouring buildings forever.
This amazing place serves 250 different kinds of pancakes
including our favourite: chicken satay pancakes! On sunny
days try the small garden behind the restaurant. QOpen
12:00 - 19:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Mon. (8
- 13). TJGBK
Tilburg has plenty of summer terraces
Corne Hannink
Seafood
Tapas
Kok Verhoeven D-1, NS Plein 32, tel. (+31) 135 45
La Cabaa H-5, Academielaan 73, tel. (+31) 134 67
10 88, www.kokverhoeven.nl. Although you can enjoy

meat courses like duck at Kok Verhoeven, the restaurant
specialises in fish dishes and this is evident as the aroma of
delicious seafood greets you when you walk in. The restaurant
is rather small, but has a lovely terrace with an awning and
a long white sofa and lovely little braziers that provide it with
extra class. Judging from the mountain of champagne corks
in the silver wine cooler visitors must order bubbly in large
quantities. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Sat 17:00 - 22:00, Sun
17:00 - 02:00 (24 - 29). JAUGBKW
Spanish
El Caso B-3, Heuvelstraat 122, tel. (+31) 135 44 21 03,
www.elcasotilburg.nl. Were not usually keen on restaurants

based on two different concepts, we were pleased with both the
tapas and the pizza. This attractive corner restaurant is also a
good place for lunch and we wholeheartedly recommend the
El Caso sandwich stuffed with a kind of taco filling. The walls
are adorned with all kinds of Spanish vistas and this theme
has even been extended to the toilets. Men can get rid of their
superfluous ballast behind the matador, while ladies can use
the entrance with a female flamenco dancer. QOpen 12:00 23:00. (9 - 18). TJAGBKXW
Steak
De Renie D-3, Heuvelring 220, tel. (+31) 135 36
33 84, www.lacabanatilburg.nl. If youre looking for a bit

of sunny Spain in Tilburg, this is the place to go. Order tapas
with wine here in the proper Spanish way. The sheer number
of tapas, including vegetarian appetisers, is impressive and a
lot of thought has been put into restaurants interior design,
especially the sophisticated garden. The only drawback is
the location on the outskirts of town. Be that as it may, this
is definitely the best tapas bar in Tilburg. QOpen 17:00 23:45. (3 - 6). PTUGBKS
Ms Tapas Y Vinos B-3, Oude Markt 14, tel. (+31) 135
36 07 00. Tapas bar Mas Tapas Y Vinos offers an extensive

list of Spanish wines, which is surprisingly exceptional for a
tapas bar in Tilburg. Unfortunately, diners are seated on low
white stools, which may cause a lack of legroom for many
men. Part of the restaurant is a raised area, separated by a
typically Spanish partition. Fortunately the stools in this area
are a bit higher. The menu is impressive, with no less than
three types of jambon and four kinds of Spanish cheese and
its an especially pleasant place to visit late in the afternoon
in summer, because by the time the sun reaches Mas, most
other places need outdoor heaters. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00,
za 12:00 - 22:00. Gesloten ma. (5 - 10). JABK
Thai
Jasmine I-5, Molenstraat 136, tel. (+31) 135 81 07
35 35, www.reunietilburg.nl. De Renie has the robust

appearance of a steakhouse, while at the same time exuding the trendiness of a cocktail bar. The wooden beams
look like theyve been nicked from a Burgundian farmhouse
and against the walls youll find sofas with enough room
to seat an entire football team. Men go all out here with
T-bone steaks and 9% Straffe Hendrik beer, while women
often enjoy a fish dish and sip of a Strawberry Collins. The
more adventurous can even try the local spirit jenever in a
Dutch Mojito. QOpen 16:30 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 16:30 - 03:00.
(18 - 23). JGBK
66, www.jasminethai.nl. The restaurant is decorated

haphazardly with an excess of Thai frills, but the menu is
attractive and organised very clearly by the type of meat on
offer: chicken, beef, pork or fish. For added clarity theres an
indication of how spicy each meal is. When you see three red
peppers theres a danger of combustion and tears, whereas
a dish with no peppers is even safe enough for children. Daredevils who order spicy courses can douse the fire with real
Thai beer: Singha. The music provided is no doubt popular in
Thailand, but definitely an acquired taste. Although the staff
speak English and Thai, they havent mastered Dutch just
yet. QOpen 15:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (8 - 13). GK
Surinamese
Turkish
Faja Lobi B-3, Oude Markt 9, tel. (+31) 135 44 96 66,
Melisa F-4, Dalempromenade 70, tel. (+31) 135 70 47
www.fajalobi-tilburg.nl. These small, narrow premises with

only a couple of tables have the look and feel of a Surinamese
bar, but it actually has much more to offer. Faja Lobi is the
only Surinamese restaurant in Tilburg, so if youre craving
roti or catjang this is the place to go. The menu is excellent
for both lunch and dinner and if you just need to cool down
after an exhausting afternoon try the Surinamese Djogo
beer. QOpen 12:00 - 21:30, Sun 16:00 - 20:30. Closed
Mon. (5 - 10). JUBKS
70. For several years Turkey has been holiday destination

number 1 for the Dutch and this is partly due to the all-inclusive
all-you-can-eat packages that are often offered. However, if
you expect to be served the same processed Western trash
in Melisa that these holiday factories spew out three times a
day, youre mistaken. Meilsas brilliant food matches the view of
the Donge Valley, one of Tilburgs most attractive and relatively
unknown areas of outstanding natural beauty. QOpen 12:00
- 22:00. Closed Mon. (16 - 20). TALBKS
CAFS
Cafs in Tilburg offer much more than just a cup of coffee
with a pastry or a cup of tea. Most offer soups, salads and
sandwiches, so the border between restaurants, pubs and
cafs is very thin. Pick one from this list that is just right for
your mood or occasion. Eet smakelijk!
Bakeries
Soups & Shakes B-2, Tuinstraat 114, tel. (+31) 135
45 16 97, www.soupsandshakes.nl. Soups & Shakes is

essentially a sandwich shop where you can create your own
lunch with a variety of toppings for a fair price. The small,
flowery room exudes a friendly atmosphere, you can make
your own coffee if you like and the owner is always up for a
chat. The place is popular with local shoppers in need of an
energy boost, but students also seem to congregate here
after classes. QOpen 11:30 - 19:00, Thu 11:30 - 20:00.
Closed Sun. (3 - 8). JGBS
Classic cafs
De Burgerij B-2, Noordstraat 87 - 89, tel. (+31) 138
22 09 89, www.deburgerij.nl. The cheese, olive oils and

meats on display are simply mouth-watering and placing an
order here couldnt be easier. Just choose either A, B or C.
Sandwiches of differing prices and fillings are available from
abundant and overflowing to basic. The romantic setting,
friendly service and homemade food places this newcomer
among our favourites. Give it a try. QOpen 10.00 - 20.00,
Sun 12.00 - 17.00. Closed Mon. (3 - 5). PTJ6BSW
De Poorten I-5, Hasseltstraat 194, tel. (+31) 134 64
92 10, www.detwern.nl. Usually, the only time alcohol is

permitted in church is when the priest offers communion during
a service, but this former house of worship is an exception. The
De Poorten community centre has now built a cosy retreat
where the altar used to be. The architect also deserves some
praise for respectfully preserving many of the old churchs
original elements and seamlessly integrating these into this
glass cage. Get comfy in one of the 10 seats available and
enjoy the extremely low prices for a cup of coffee or tea (0.55),
a toasted sandwich (1.30) or the local spirit, Schrobbeler.
Kras2 C-3, Willem II straat 27, tel. (+31) 135 44 40
42, www.kras2.nl. You cant walk past this sandwich shop

without noticing it. The enormous ILLY coffee cup and the
memorable delivery bicycles that stand outside the door
will definitely grab your attention. The room smells of super
simple, yet delicious sandwiches, whose fillings are often of
Italian origin. Your order will be prepared right in front of you
in the open kitchen, but you could always try a fresh piece
of pie or buy something to prepare at home. QOpen 08:00
- 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 7). JGS
Mugs & Muffins C-3, Willem II straat 57, tel. (+31)
135 90 45 85, www.mugsandmuffins.nl. A balanced diet

is a cookie in each hand is its motto and Mugs & Muffins
lives by it. Shoppers come here by the bucket load to enjoy
hot drinks and home made pastries. Starbucks pales by
comparison with this Tilburg favourite. Take a seat near the
front window for people watching or in the back for a view of
a well-maintained city garden. If youre in luck, you might find
a seat in one of the two wonderful arm-chairs. Every season
three new drinks appear on the menu, which are perfectly
in tune with the winter chill or a summer breeze. QOpen
08:00 - 19:00, Mon 13:00 - 19:00, Thu 08:00 - 22:00, Sat
09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 7). JG
Neoliet Klimcentrum I-6, Marathonpromenade 1, tel.
(+31) 135 36 29 40, www.neoliet.nl. The view of a motorway and an empty square isnt one of the most picturesque
in Tilburg, but the vast majority of Neoliets patrons couldnt
care less. Built in 1994, this climbing centre, which houses
several climbing walls dozens of metres high, is heaven on
earth for mountaineers. But make sure youre not in a hurry
if you want a drink as the barman doubles as a climbing
instructor. The small sports canteen offers several kinds of
beer, some small snacks and paninis and to make up for the
rather bleak surroundings, colourful Tibetan prayer flags as
well as climbing gear serve as decoration. If you find yourself
without entertaining company, you can always browse through
the magazine rack for such riveting titles as Alpinist. QOpen
13:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. TLG
Nieuwland B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 66, tel. (+31) 137 85
15 43. Nieuwland first opened its doors in 2013 and every

aspect of its impressive interior is the brainchild of the two
vivacious, perfectionist sisters-in-law who run it. Historic
pictures of these authentic premises and their immediate
surroundings illustrate that this used to be one of Tilburgs
poshest neighbourhoods. If you order a sandwich filled with
local ingredients like artisanal cheeses or steak tartar, youll
also discover that this region of Holland has a lot of delicacies
to offer. If youd like to use the wireless internet simply type in
the password welcome with us, which perfectly describes
the warm atmosphere of this nostalgic place. Q Open
09:30 - 17:30. Closed Mon, Sun. TJAUGBKXW
Prins Heerlijk B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 16, tel. (+31)
135 42 16 18, www.prinsheerlijktilburg.nl. Mentally

challenged youngsters and school drop-outs are trained to
cook and serve here by professional catering staff. Prins
Heerlijk serves gorgeous soups, big salads and fresh rolls
or thick, hand-cut sandwiches. Many products are fair trade
and organic and most of them even come from Tilburg or its
surroundings. QOpen 12:00 - 17:30, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 17:30. Closed Sun. (3 - 8). JG
Spring/Summer 2013
E27
E28
NIGHTLIFE
Tilburgs brilliant nightlife scene includes dimly lit jazz and
blues bars, groovy strip clubs, cosy pubs and a vibrant underground music scene. Although closing times are strictly
regulated, some bars and pubs stay open until the last
group of customers have stumbled out. Most night spots
are concentrated around the area by Old Town square,
with the Korte Heuvel and the nearby Piusplein being alltime favourites of locals and students. The town is small
enough to cover on foot, though as the night gets longer,
so does the distance between places. Some places refuse
entrance to anyone in scruffy jeans and trainers, so make
a bit of an effort before going out to the glitzier venues.
Symbol key
P Air conditioning
E Live music
S Take away
T Child friendly
I Fireplace
X Smoking section
G No smoking
J City centre location
W Free wireless internet 6 Pets allowed
Bars
Clancys D-3, Heuvel 44-45, tel. (+31) 135 45 18 37,
www.clancystilburg.com. Every self-respecting city has

an Irish pub and Tilburg is no exception. Among this randomly put together collection of stools, chairs, tables and
benches, you can order your Guinness in English, or even
better, in Irish as Clancys staff and owner all come from the
Emerald Isle. Tilburgs huge student population descend on
this place every week for a good glass of whiskey or a pint
of Snake Bite (beer with cider) a good old meal of fish and
chips. Sports fans can enjoy live broadcasts of the English
Premier League, French rugby or even American football on
the big screen. QOpen 16:00 - 02:00, Mon 18:00 - 02:00,
Thu 16:00 - 03:00, Fri 16:00 - 04:00, Sat 12:00 - 04:00, Sun
14:00 - 02:00. JGBX
De Korenbloem H-5, Bredaseweg 261, tel. (+31) 134
63 39 80, www.stapperijdekorenbloem.nl. De Korenbloem is located at Tilburgs busiest intersection and yet you
hear little of the traffic rushing by on its spacious terrace. Due
to the many offices and businesses located in the vicinity, the
crowds mostly come in for lunch or after work. Suits, ties and
scarfs of both genders come to this old-fashioned cocktail bar
to unwind, especially at the end of their exhausting week. The
evening menu will definitely fill you up, especially the tasty Argentinian steak, but theres limited seating inside. Fortunately,
in summer the sliding doors are opened up and the terrace
tempts hungry or thirsty passers-by. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00,
Sat, Sun 15:00 - 01:00. (11 - 16). LGBKX
De Lamme Goedzak D-2, Heuvelring 104, tel. (+31)
628 23 65 48. Both drunk and sober pub lovers often literally fall into this pub, thanks to the steep steps leading down
from the street level entrance. Although the facade of the
building on the Heuvelring is pleasing to the eye, once inside
the interior seems to be on the decline and in dire need of a
fresh layer of paint. De Lamme Goedzak is frequently the last
stop for the regiment of inebriated locals looking for another
drink after most other pubs have closed their doors. QOpen
21:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 21:00 - 04:00. JGX
De Slijterij D-3, Heuvel 42, tel. (+31) 135 36 22 46,
www.cafedeslijterij.nl. On the way to the toilet youll pass

images of Dolly, Aretha and Miss Ross at least four times so
you can probably guess what the DJs play here. De Slijterij is
a pub of contradictions. While you can still smell the freshly
papered walls, the clientele look like theyve been dancing
here since the beginning of time. The imposing display of
spirits and expensive champagnes is in stark contrast to the
minimalist style of the pub. De Slijterij is a favourite among the
older generations who dance their weekly waltz on the spotless floor. QOpen 17:00 - 01:00, Thu, Sun 17:00 - 02:00,
Fri, Sat 17:00 - 03:00. Closed Tue. JGBX
Extase D-2, Heuvelring 112, tel. (+31) 135 42 25 67,
www.cafe-extase.nl. Extase is known throughout Tilburg

for its casual attitude toward opening hours on Wednesday
nights. When all other bars have closed their doors, you can
continue the party here for a while. Both young and old go
wild to popular beats from the 1980s and 90s in a large shed
of sorts behind the bar. Everyone drinks Jupiler beer and the
bar staff can therefore easily return a full crate of 26 empties
each time they make the rounds. But theres also plenty to
keep you occupied on other nights. Tuesdays are popular
with people who play Settlers of Catan and Thursdays host
I Love Electronics nights. QOpen 19:00 - 04:00, Tue 19:00
- 02:00, Wed 19:00 - 03:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGX
Havana D-2, Heuvel 22, tel. (+31) 135 36 53 24, www.

havana-tilburg.nl. Hasta la victoria siempre is painted in
large letters on the wall of Havana, which has been the citys
best cocktail bar for years now. These are the legendary
words of Argentinian Marxist Che Guevara written in a letter
to Fidel Castro. They mean forever on the road to victory. As
soon as you set foot in this delightful establishment you leave
Tilburg and youre engulfed by the swinging Central American
atmosphere of Cuba. This is best illustrated by the menu.
Order amazing fajitas, nachos and sopas instead of deep fried
local snacks like bitterballen and vlammetjes (Indonesian
meat filled snacks). At the weekend the room is cleared in
the evenings to make space for resident DJs who know how
to make people move. A favourite among 30-somethings.
QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00, Sun
10:00 - 02:00. (15 - 22). JGBKX
Hoppie D-3, Piusplein 3, tel. (+31) 622 51 75 82, www.
Try a tasty La Trappe brew while youre in Tilburg
cafehoppie.nl. At Carnival each year this place is positively

bursting with patrons, but this nostalgic pub can get busy on
other nights too with a clientele of mainly older regulars who put
away quite a few drinks. The bar isnt big, but theres enough
space for a dance floor and local artists perform here often,
although you probably wont miss much if you stay home on
those nights. In a nutshell, its the atmosphere where everyone
knows one another that sets Hoppie apart from many other
Tilburg pubs. QOpen 18:00 - 04:00, Wed 18:00 - 02:00,
Sat 14:00 - 04:00, Sun 14:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Tue. J
NIGHTLIFE
NIGHTLIFE
Jacks C-2, Tuinstraat 81, tel. (+31) 135 42 63 22,
www.cafejacks.nl. Although this place wont win any awards

for interior design, theres no other place in Tilburgs inner city
where you can eat as cheaply as here. For only 6 youll get a
delicious seasonal daily special. If its snowing youll get real
Dutch boerenkool (kale and sausage), but if its sunny out
you can probably expect a large salad. Even big eaters will
have trouble finishing the enormous servings here and you
also get a huge basket of bread and herb butter for free that
could feed a whole refugee camp. Drinks are also incredibly
cheap, but the real fun starts when the plates are cleared
from the tables and the bar is transformed into a board game
room. QOpen 17:00 - 02:00, Mon 20:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri
17:00 - 03:00, Sat 20:00 - 03:00. (6 - 10). JGKX
Le Clochard C-3, Heuvel 16, tel. (+31) 135 35 76 60,
www.leclochard.nl. You dont need to wander around Tilburg

long to find a party pub but if you want to find one of the best
then head over to Le Clochard. Its always busy here, and if it
isnt, that means its closed. Theres nothing in between. On
Friday afternoon youll find a queue of about 50 teenagers
outside and all the local students come here for shelter. The
walls of Le Clochard curve inward with an occasional porthole
so it feels like youre dancing in a submarine, which can of
course lead to seasickness. Or was it just too many drinks?
QOpen 20:00 - 02:00, Thu 16:00 - 04:00, Fri 14:00 - 04:00,
Sat 15:00 - 04:00, Sun 15:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon. JGX
Little Devil B-2, Stationsstraat 27, tel. (+31) 135 45
21 40, www.littledevil.nl. Little Devil is Tilburgs best rock

caf. If you love rock, metal, trash metal, heavy metal, garage,
punk and similar music than this is the place to go. Prepare
to enter a dark cave with a lot of head-banging regulars who
attempt to destroy the place brick by brick with often insanely
loud guitar music. Definitely an acquired taste for Europeans
accustomed to techno and Top 40. QOpen 17:00 - 02:00,
Fri 17:00 - 03:00, Sat 15:00 - 03:00, Sun 13:30 - 02:00.
Closed Mon. (2 - 5). EGX
Polly Maggoo D-3, Heuvel 10, tel. (+31) 135 45 67 30,
www.pollymaggoo.nl. Since the 1960s renowned model Polly Magoo has been a true phenomenon in art cinema and Caf
Polly Magoo, located in the centre of Tilburg, is also an institution in its own right. In fact, whole generations of students have
grown up in this place. Even now, the sultry-eyed Polly watches
over all of her patrons from her life-size film poster on the wall.
Her staff are friendly, theres room to dance to good music in the
back of the pub and the lunches are quite tatsy. To top all this,
Polly Magoo recently came up with a new concept that makes
this place the best hamburger joint in Tilburg and beyond. The
Trappistenburger made with quadrupel Trappist beer is simply
fantastic, but the all American classic is also nothing to sneeze
at. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Mon 12:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat
10:00 - 04:00. (11 - 17). PJEGBKX
Slagroom D-3, Piusplein 6a, tel. (+31) 135 82 00 70,
www.cafeslagroom.nl. Caf Slagroom is an old-fashioned

Dutch farm kitchen with a tiny checkered pattern on the floor
and little curtains along the ceiling and shelves for decoration.
You half expect to see a family with nine small children sitting
around the table, being served boerenkool (curly kale and
mashed potatoes) from a large orange pot. Fortunately Caf
Slagroom hasnt put progress by the wayside and the menu
has more to offer than just traditional Dutch dishes. You can
indulge in home made hash, pork with brie or even catfish with
bacon. While the women enjoy themselves with a Tilburg High
Tea that includes characteristic local sweets and the quintessentially Dutch koetjesrepen (chocolate), male visitors can
enjoy a beer, deep-fried snacks and football. QOpen 10:00
- 02:00, Mon, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. (14 - 19). JGBKX
Thirsty patrons enjoy the sunshine at Havana
Stadscaf Van Gogh D-3, Paleisring 17, tel. (+31) 135
43 11 15, www.stadscafevangogh.nl. This top-notch pub

opened at the end of 2011 and its large wooden beams and
imposing beer kegs will have you craning your neck to take in
the furnishings of the place. In fact, the interior screams that
its all a bit too new and definitely not the kind of place the
famous artist and one-time resident of Tilburg Van Gogh is
likely to have frequented, but its definitely a decent choice
for a cosy drink. QOpen 15:00 - 04:00, Tue, Wed, Sun 15:00
- 02:00. Closed Mon. J
Studio Tilburg D-3, Heuvel 7 - 9, tel. (+31) 135 43 60
16, www.studio-tilburg.com. What came first: modern

man in Tilburg or a pub in Tilburg for modern people? Nobody
knew that Tilburg could be so trendy until Studio opened its
doors. It has been a catwalk for fashion-conscious people
in their twenties and thirties, every Thursday, Friday and
Saturday night ever since. Of course this is supported by the
trendy - and really good - music played by the DJ. Nowhere
else in the city do people dance so well as here, but this is
no surprise considering the many dance academy students
in attendance. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Mon, Sun 12:00 01:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00. (14 - 19). JGBKX
Tribunaal D-3, Heuvel 14, tel. (+31) 135 42 52 90,

www.tribunaal.nl. The famous Tribunaal in Tilburg is a pub
on Korte Heuvel and is probably the largest one in the inner
city. Its a place where young professionals have been coming for 28 years to unwind after a busy day at work. Theres
always something going on: people playing darts, cards or
shooting pool and they regularly organise poker tournaments.
QOpen 13:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri 13:00 - 03:00, Sat 13:00 04:00. JGBX
t Vaticaan D-3, Heuvel 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 79 47,
www.cafevaticaan.nl. In the middle of Rome youll find

the enclave of Vatican City, but since 1994, this vibrant
pub with a similar name has been an enclave of fun in the
centre of Tilburg. On Friday nights, young and old rock the
place to great beats and twice a week (on Mondays and
Wednesdays) you can sit down to dinner. Theres no menu
so you just choose whatevers on offer that day. In summer,
the wonderful, spacious terrace beneath an ancient tree
is the place to be. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 04:00. PJGBX
Spring/Summer 2013
E29
29
E30
NIGHTLIFE
Traditional bars
Alt Wien I-5, Wilhelminapark 40, tel. (+31) 135 36
92 80. Opposite the attractive Wilhelminapark youll find

Alt Wien, an authentic local pub with Tiffany lamps hanging
from the ceiling and a live grey parrot with a red tail keeping
a close eye on the guests. Local artists are honoured here
with scarves on the wall and their records are played from
time to time. In short, its a pub where the regulars all know
each other. The lady behind the bar may look like a rough
pub-crawler, but her barks worse than her bite. Invariably
newcomers are greeted in a friendly manner and before you
know it the bar flies will be joining you at your table. QOpen
15:00 - 02:00. JGX
Bet Kolen I-6, Broekhovenseweg 111, tel. (+31) 135
42 28 60, www.betkolen.nl. Everyone in Tilburg knows

this 100-year-old bar whose founder, Bet Kolen, was born in
1896. Although it was unusual for a woman to start a pub
at that time, everybody used to visit Bets and she offered
many drinkers a home away from home. In 2011 the pub still
has the same name and the same values: pay attention to
the guests and make sure everybody has a good time. The
building consists of three parts. Up front theres a bar, next
a large room which functions as a party centre followed by
a busy hall in which men play darts and billiards on one of
18 dartboards and 16 pool tables. QOpen 12:30 - 02:00,
Tue 17:00 - 02:00, Fri 12:30 - 03:00, Sat 12:00 - 02:00, Sun
11:00 - 02:00. GX
De Triangel E-3, Lanciersstraat 70, tel. (+31) 135 35
47 58. The Triangle is to Tilburg what Cheers is to Boston.

Literally everyone seems to know each others name here.
Landlord Frank doesnt just pour the cheapest beers in
Tilburg, but he also acts as a special kind of social worker.
If necessary the friendly barkeep even takes on the role of
bouncer, although any form of aggression is hard to find in
this old-fashioned pub. Sleek marketing concepts have never
infected this local haunt where the oak tables are still covered
with Persian rugs and kitschy white lace curtains decorate its
windows. For some this is the height of archaic Holland, but
we love it and so do many of the regulars who have treated
this pub as their living room and home away from home for
over 50 years. Q LX
Lambiek I-5, Wilhelminapark 66, tel. (+31) 135 36 43
51, www.kaffeelambiek.nl. What makes this pub named

after a popular Belgian comic strip character so special, apart
from its excellent location directly opposite the Wilhelmina
Park, is that theres always something going on. Lambiek
organises live acts, jam sessions or workshops on an almost
daily basis and its an ideal place to go after a visit to Tilburgs
two largest museums only a stones throw away. We personally keep coming back for the 40 or more speciality beers it
serves. QOpen 19:00 - 01:00, Fri 16:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun
19:00 - 02:00. EG
Langerijt J-6, Lourdesstraat 5, tel. (+31) 135 42 24
18. A stranger wandering into this pub will probably need a

little time to adjust to it. After this initial phase, it turns out
that the surly looking bartender can actually smile. In fact,
she does this while pouring fresh glasses of Amstel for her
regular customers from two gorgeous, historic taps adorned
with nostalgic pictures of Amsterdam. Fortunately, she
doesnt seem to bother with the four liqueur bottles on the
bar that look as if they havent been touched since World War
II. Theres not much on offer for hungry patrons but if youd
like something a little more satisfying than a bag of crisps,
try the homemade meat balls or toasted sandwiches made
with spicy dry Hoeve sausage.
Do as the locals do and relax at a caf
Beer bars
Caf Hoegaarden D-3, Piusplein 2, tel. (+31) 137
20 06 22, www.hoegaardentilburg.nl. This caf named
after the delicious milky beer calls itself the Best Beer Pub in
Tilburg and in capital letters no less. The latest owners took
over at the end of 2011 and still have to prove themselves
given such local competition as Kadinsky and Buitenbeentje
(Maverick). That said, the big bar looks fantastic with its
many stained-glass windows, wood panelling and original
tile work and the toasted sandwiches made with Turkish flat
bread are excellent, but it still has to work on that characteristic Belgian ambience to win over the locals. Dont leave
without trying the heavenly taste of an Urthel Samaranth
brew. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Mon 12:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri
11:00 - 02:00, Sat 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. (15
- 20). PTJGBK
t BuitenBeentje D-3, Heuvel 15a, tel. (+31) 135 36
04 66, www.kafeebuitenbeentje.nl. t Buitenbeentje is

truly deserving of its name if only due to the beer thats sold
here for only 1.30 - almost a euro cheaper than anywhere
else on the Heuvel. The interior is, to put it mildly, also rather
remarkable and unconventional. You wont find expensive
paintings or something remotely trendy, but rather empty
beer crates and whisky boxes lining the walls. Moreover,
sitting at the bar is a completely different experience than
in standard pubs. At t Buitenbeentje drinkers sit on low
stools and the barman stands in a pit beneath you. Your tab
is kept on a beer mat and any money that changes hands
is literally put in a drawer. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat
15:00 - 03:00. JGBX
Casinos & Gaming halls

Jacks Casino C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 172, tel. (+31)
135 42 58 80, www.jackscasino.nl. As a consequence

of strict Dutch gambling laws, theres only one official chain
of casinos in The Netherlands, the government-run Holland
Casino. Unfortunately there is no Holland Casino in Tilburg, but
we think that the Jacks Casino gambling hall is an excellent
alternative. The gambling laws prohibit the sale of alcohol
and there are no croupiers at the tables. Therefore you cant
play proper roulette, poker or blackjack, but the computerised
versions are available and there are plenty of slot machines
to offer an evenings entertainment. The service is quick
and the impressive restaurant isnt just for fortune seekers.
QOpen 09:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 09:00 - 03:00, Sun
10:00 - 02:00. O
NIGHTLIFE
Gay & Lesbian
Midnight munchies
De Lollipop D-3, Paleisring 25, tel. (+31) 135 35 52 38,
Karnak Heuvel 6, tel. (+31) 135 44 13 96, www.
De Popcorn D-3, Paleisring 19, tel. (+31) 135 43 32
Out of town
www.delollipop.nl. De Lollipop is the gay bar in Tilburg. Its

been there for over a decade now, which by local standards is an
eternity. Men, women, young, old, gay, straight and everything
in between go wild on the dance floor at the back of the establishment, making it a fabulous party. Countless disco lights
and glitter balls surround you and shine on you highlighting all
of your moves. The pub seems enormous, which is an optical
illusion created by its mirrored walls. It also lets you check out
your neighbours and vice versa. QOpen Mon 17:00 - 01:00,
Thu 19:00 - 04:00, Fri 18:00 - 04:00, Sat 14:00 - 04:00, Sun
14:00 - 02:00. Closed Tue, Wed. JGBX
18, www.depopcorn.nl. No matter what type of music the
DJ plays, its always time to dance at De Popcorn. Although
technically a pub, it feels more like a mini disco with its large
lamps and fluorescent disco balls. The rear bar even has two
seductive poles going up to the ceiling, but most regulars seem
to be a little old to work it properly without hurting themselves
or traumatising younger spectators. QOpen 14:00 - 04:00,
Mon, Tue 19:00 - 02:00, Wed, Sun 14:00 - 02:00. JGBX
De Wijn C-3, Stadhuisstraat 17, tel. (+31) 135 44 51
18, www.dewijn.nl. As the owners of De Wijn are lesbians,

this pub has been labelled a lesbian bar. However, while there
are many lesbian customers, everyone is welcome here. To
describe its interior just think of Moulin Rouge with lots of
glitter and glamour, frills, and the well-known red and black
colour scheme. Unlike many other pubs, beer isnt the beverage of choice here. Youll notice this instantly by the strong
liquor hanging behind the bar and the subtle sweet scent in
the air. QOpen , Thu, Fri 20:00 - 04:00, Sat 16:00 - 04:00,
Sun 16:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. JGBX
Live music
Cul de Sac D-3, Heuvel 48, tel. (+31) 135 81 01 10,
www.culdesac.nl. Cul de Sac has established itself as a

lounge for an alternative crowd with a more evolved taste in
music. Its the place to be for new hippies and young artists,
musicians and other creative minds who like to have a beer
or a Jack Daniels in the pub area. Students from the Rock
Academy show off their newly learned skills in the dance pit
at the back of the room, while the crowds go wild on a wide
selection of music, as this is what separates Cul de Sac
from other pubs in Tilburg. Look Out! Dancing in Progress!
is written above the pit. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat
15:00 - 04:00. JGBX
karnak-tilburg.nl. Once you arrive on Tilburgs main pub

street, Korte Heuvel, Karnak will lure you in. The strip light
over the electrical sliding doors, the camp neon lights in
the windows and the loud slogans on the faade are like
a sirens song. Its not the best kebab weve had, but no
one, especially after a dozen beers, complains about the
quality of the greasy Turkish pizza. Everyones just happy
that its open so late and is located so centrally. Ideal for
getting a head start on doing something about tomorrows
hangover. Q Open 16:00 - 02:15, Thu, Fri, Sat 16:00 04:15. JVGBS
Het Dorstige Hert H-5, Bredaseweg 397, tel. (+31)
134 67 10 85, www.dorstigehert-tilburg.nl. After a

walk or a cycle through the wooded area of Waranda,
you can have an intimate drink at Het Dorstige Hert (The
Thirsty Deer), which is popular with day trippers, locals
and university students. The staff are a little older than
the average employee of an inner city pub, but this does
nothing to lessen the atmosphere here. The interior, on the
other hand, is definitely of an antique variety and is decorated like our grandmas living room with a sturdy wooden
cabinet and a wooden chandelier. However, grandma, it
seems, throws excellent parties. QOpen 15:00 - 24:00.
Closed Sat. LGBX
Pool & Billiards

Poolcentrum 4 Friends H-5, Koestraat 144, tel. (+31)
135 44 22 81, www.poolcentrum4friends.nl. This is
a classic pool hall with lots of pool and snooker tables,
dart boards, good background music and room enough for
both amateurs and sharks. You can also take lessons here.
QOpen 12:00 - 01:00, Fri 12:00 - 02:00, Sat 13:00 - 02:00,
Sun 13:00 - 01:00. JU
Saints D-3, Heuvelring 222, tel. (+31) 135 36 77 11,

www.saints.nl. The entrance is hard to find, but once
upstairs pool enthusiasts wont be disappointed. Although
there are plenty of tables for everyone, theres not much in
the way of atmosphere, which could be due to the fact that
the drinks here are just as expensive as in the city centre. At
least there you might have a chance of being served by an
attractive waitress. QOpen 19:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 14:00 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. JGX
Lounges & Cocktail bars

T Kwadraat I-6, Marathonpromenade 383, tel. (+31) 135
81 28 84, www.horecatkwadraat.nl. Tilburg has recently

become a real sports town and the opening of the T Kwadraat
sports centre is a perfect example of this trend. No less than
three different pubs and restaurants are housed in this industrialstyle facility including the Eatery (Het eetcaf), the Aprs-ski
bar and the Lounge. All three are decent enough places to eat
a burger or schnitzel or to drink a glass of wine, but theyre not
exactly the height of fashion (especially the Lounge) and are better suited as places to enjoy a Wieckse Witte draught beer with
friends after a hard workout. Q THAUFLGKXW
Thirsty for more?

The imposing facade of 013
Spring/Summer 2013
E31
31
E32
NIGHTLIFE
Pubs
Babbus D-3, Heuvel 46, tel. (+31) 135 45 35 39. On
weekdays you usually find students in this pub on de Korte

Heuvel, but at the weekend the high bar stools are occupied
by a somewhat older crowd. In both cases the atmosphere
remains free and relaxed with experienced staff that know
what a properly poured beer is supposed to look like. The
regulars welcome newcomers with sincere smiles and expensive marketing concepts arent employed at Babbus. You can
make your own night here by requesting a song and shaking
your stuff on the tiny dance floor. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Thu,
Fri, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. PJGBX
Bolle D-3, Piusplein 8, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 90, www.
cafebolle.nl. In 2011 this place was named one of the best

pubs in the Netherlands. During the day youll encounter
families with children as well as businesspeople enjoying lunch
and in the evening students cram into this familiar building on
the Piusplein. The stage at the back is frequently occupied
by live bands and you may just happen upon a famous band
on a weekday. Youll definitely notice all of the muppets that
decorate the pub and the menu offers affordable student bites
as well as extensive three-course meals. QOpen 10:00 04:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00.
(9 - 14). TJAUGBKW
Brandpunt D-3, Piusplein 7, tel. (+31) 135 35 96 49,
www.cafebrandpunt.nl. Brandpunt has been making students happy for decades. Its one of the few real student pubs
in town where you can spend an evening drinking special beers
on draught. Other draws include the large outdoor terrace and
its affordable food, not to mention cheap specials and good
offers like steak Tuesday and spare-rib Wednesday. But five
nights a week the place is cleared and the stage is littered
with boasting, slurring students and the air-conditioning
seems to be out of order, which means that the clammy air
quickly reeks of beer and sweat. On Friday night the average
age drops so drastically that if youre 21 youre already a walking fossil. On Sunday nights hockey players and their beautiful
fans take control of the dance floor. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00,
Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00. JGBK
Burgemeester Jansen E-4, Piushaven 22, tel. (+31)
135 45 10 08, www.burgemeesterjansen.nl. Johannes

Franciscus Jansen was the longest serving mayor of Tilburg
(1869 - 1901) and thereby practically solely responsible for
the construction of the Wilhelmina canal which flows into the
Pius harbour. This is also the exact place where the Burgemeester Jansen pub was established in 2005. You have to
stray off the beaten path to get a beer here, but its definitely
worth the trek. The large interior is decorated sparingly with
austere tables, yellowing maps and wooden beer crates as
the only embellishments. Roughly a dozen different beers
are available on draught and the service is friendly. Its also
the only pub in Tilburg with a terrace by the water. QOpen
15:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon. GB
De Heeren Van Tilburg C-3, Stadhuisstraat 21, tel.

(+31) 135 82 03 16, www.deheerenvantilburg.nl. Insiders know that you can eat truly delicious food for relatively
low prices at this lovely pub thats a mixture of old-fashioned
elegance and modern nonchalance. The menu offers plenty
of variety and we highly recommend the pot of mussels or
the suckling pig. Big steaks and enormous schnitzels also
get a thumbs up. In summer you can sit outside with a view
of the old Heiken Church that dates back to 1829. For those
whod like to learn some Dutch, an afternoon at De Heeren
Van Tilburg might be a good start. QOpen 12:00 - 04:00.
Closed Mon. JAUBKW
Youre never far from a party in Tilburg
De Plaats D-3, Piusplein 61, tel. (+31) 135 36 91 54,
www.deplaats.nl. On Sundays crowds of people dance to

jazzy tunes played by live bands at De Plaats, but on most
other days the pub usually caters to a local group of regulars
despite its central location in the heart of the city. You wont
find dirty, grubby Persian rugs on the tables or a smoky
pool table in the centre of the room here. Instead you can
expect a bright and fresh dcor. QOpen 11:00 - 03:00, Mon
20:00 - 02:00, Tue, Wed 11:00 - 02:00, Sun 15:00 - 02:00.
J6GBKX
Het Elfde Gebod D-3, Paleisring 23, tel. (+31) 135
36 68 69, www.hetelfdegebod.eu. Jews and Christians

have the Ten Commandments, but Tilburgers have added
their own. The eleventh commandment (Het Elfde Gebod or
thou shalt enjoy) is the focal point of this pub where you can
eat very well. The comprehensive menu is a cut above the
rest and offers such local delicacies as venison. Guests also
come here for the large variety of beer that flows from the
tap. The entire pub is decorated with Catholic paraphernalia
such as scenes from the Crusades and statues of Christ on
the cross. The large terrace is also popular and it provides
comfortable chairs and blankets in case it gets chilly, not to
mention a place to have a smoke. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00,
Sun 12:00 - 02:00. (16 - 21). TJ6GBK
Heuvel 15 D-3, Heuvel 15, tel. (+31) 135 35 08 06,
www.heuvel15.nl. Heuvel 15 has been around for 30 years

making it the oldest pub on Korte Heuvel. The owner has such
a good time at his pub that he never skips a day and happily
keeps the Hertog Jan beer flowing from the large Delft blue
tap. Although the spirits are lined up gracefully behind the
bar, Heuvel 15 calls itself a wine bar as well as a pub. This
isnt surprising in view of the large variety of wines on offer,
which is unusual for such a small place. Interior design isnt
Heuvel 15s strong suit, but who says that a bar has to be
stylish when youre just out for an evening of fun? QOpen
14:00 - 02:00, Thu 14:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 14:00 - 04:00, Sun
14:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon. JGBX
Joris D-3, Piusplein 5, tel. (+31) 135 44 60 16, www.
cafejoris.nl. Caf Joris offers some kind of activity almost

every day. Watching football is popular among locals while
the many live performances, karaoke evenings and open
mic nights with singer-songwriters are a magnet for many
young patrons. Stand-up comedians and even magicians
regularly make appearances here and thanks to unusual
snacks like steak strips and jumbo shrimps, this is a
wonderful place to come for a bite, too! QOpen 11:00
- 02:00. JGB
NIGHTLIFE
Kandinsky C-2, Telegraafstraat 58, tel. (+31) 135 44
49 24, www.biercafe-kandinsky.nl. Every pub in Tilburg

offers beer, but only one can call itself Tilburgs best beer
lovers bar. The menu boasts no less than 200 different brews,
many of which flow freshly from the taps. Unfortunately its a
bit too much to try them all in one go, although we certainly
tried our best. The relaxed staff, the greatly varied clientele,
every beer served in its own branded glass and music thats
not turned up too loud make this the ideal place to sit and chat
with friends. Hundreds of enamel beer platters also adorn
its walls. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 03:00, Sun
15:00 - 24:00. GBX
Peanuts C-3, Stadhuisstraat 19, tel. (+31) 135 90 52
17, www.cafe-peanuts.nl. Nobody knows why Peanuts is

called Peanuts. There are no nuts on the bar and the pub
doesnt have any Charlie Brown memorabilia. Peanuts is actually a really modern, tidy version of a garden shed with lots of
things that sparkle, including neon lights, which makes it the
perfect location for a camp disco night. With a light screen
over the stage, which constantly changes colours, you can
relive the golden era of John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.
QOpen 19:00 - 04:00, Sat 15:00 - 04:00, Sun 15:00 - 02:00.
Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. J
Stoffel D-3, Heuvel 13, tel. (+31) 135 45 72 17, www.
stoffel.nl. If there were an election for the cleanest establishment in the restaurant business in Tilburg, Caf Stoffel
would win by a landslide. Over the years the management
has placed an emphasis on its food and a child-friendly
atmosphere. You can have a great lunch or dinner here
for a reasonable price, but its definitely not the place to
go dancing. The caf is better suited to a lazy afternoon
playing games. In fact, there are shelves loaded with board
games and you can play scrabble, chess and even Risk on
specially painted tables. When the weather is nice the sliding doors are opened bringing the outdoor terrace and the
pub together. If, however, we were to choose one thing that
wed like to change here it would have to be the ghastly wall
paper! QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00.
(15 - 20). PTJ6EGBKW
Van Horen Zeggen C-3, Stadhuisstraat 15, tel. (+31)
135 23 43 14, www.cafevanhorenzeggen.nl. Many

events and celebrities from Tilburgs long and storied past
have been immortalised on the wallpaper at Van Horen Zeggen, which means hearsay. This includes local folk hero,
and Hollands most famous singer, Guus Meeuwis, who still
regularly comes in for a beer. You can expect a big party
here every weekend and as far as were concerned thats
the best reason to come. In fact, the name hearsay doesnt
seem at all appropriate. Much talked about would be more
suitable. QOpen 14:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 14:00 - 04:00.
JGBX
Student clubs
Boekanier C-3, Stadhuisstraat 11, tel. (+31) 135 43
19 03, www.cafedeboekanier.nl. The ambiguous slogan
Pijpen? Een Euro! has put De Boekanier on the map among
students. Pijpen for which one euro is charged could refer to
anything from pipes, narrow glasses or bottles of beer to a
blow job. In this case, its not the latter, so dont expect any oral
sex on the menu. The slogan in fact refers to a narrow glass of
Jupiler beer which can be purchased for only 1.10 on Thursdays. Other slogans include geen kakje zonder zakje near the
toilets (which refers to scooping up dog crap) and No Feeding,
Please above the DJ booth. QOpen 19:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri
15:00 - 04:00, Sat 14:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. JGBX
Miller Time D-3, Piusplein 6, tel. (+31) 135 44 27 07.
Miller Time has undergone a large metamorphosis with a

new owner and a new look, but it still caters to the same
target audience as before: students. The staff try to make
a spectacle of every night and live by the clubs the motto:
Forget the old times, Feel the new times!. Unfortunately they
havent quite succeeded. Thankfully you can settle down on
the enormous terrace, weather permitting, and get a nice tan
while enjoying a cool refreshment. QOpen 19:00 - 04:00,
Tue, Wed 19:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGB
Philip D-3, Heuvel 38, tel. (+31) 135 80 03 61, www.
cafephilip.nl. To many students in Tilburg, Caf Philip is like a

second living room. On the ground floor the bookworms dance
like sardines in a tin to Top 40 beats, which can be requested
through an English pay phone booth. One floor down youll
find a pub where you can be your own DJ, but nothing beats
the top floor. When you have danced yourself into a sweat
and have loaded up on beer, you can stagger upstairs to get
your coat and a greasy snack from the wall. Theres nothing
like a Dutch croquette at 04:00! QOpen 20:00 - 04:00, Tue
19:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGBX
Wine bars
Square D-3, Heuvelpoort 324, tel. (+31) 135 36 53 71,
www.squaretilburg.nl. Heartbroken? Square is the place for
you. The saccharine voices of Celine Dion and Whitney Houston commiserate with your heartache from the loudspeakers,
the precarious tiles on the ceiling look like they might release
you from your pain at any moment and the view of the side
of the McDonalds and bus station is guaranteed to depress.
On the other hand, the affordable prices, friendly service and
delicious snacks make up for many of these shortcomings.
All this modern looking place needs are a couple of lounge
chairs and youll be able to take your next date here! Hopefully
your ex will be somewhere else. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon
11:00 - 18:00, Thu, Fri 09:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun
16:00 - 23:00. (5 - 10). PJBKW
Weemoed D-3, Heuvel 12, tel. (+31) 135 36 88 20,
cafeweemoed.nl. Weemoed has many regulars who

were born and raised in Tilburg. Although they might
look back on the old days with a touch of melancholy
(weemoed), they seem to clearly enjoy the present. But
it appears that some things are hard to let go of. The
wall at Weemoed is adorned with a cigarette vending
machine rarely seen at Dutch bars anymore. The drinks
prices are also somewhat nostalgic: 1.70 for a beer.
Wi th an tique cabinets for th e glassware, a real CD
cupboard, dogs in residence and nuts on the bar, the
pub is a bit like an old-fashioned Dutch living room. The
toilets bear the scars of creative spirits that went wild
with pens and markers. Q Open 12:00 - 02:00, Thu,
Fri, Sat 12:00 - 04:00. J6GBX
Nightlife begins early in Tilburg
Spring/Summer 2013
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33
E34
WHAT TO SEE
Tilburg has more history and more old buildings than most
Dutch people are aware of. Indeed, there may not be any
canals with accompanying canalside houses like they have
them in Utrecht and Amsterdam, and no prehistoric megaliths like in Drenthe. But Tilburg still has many old things
which grace the town. Tilburg especially owes King William
II and Pater Donders much for the tourist attractions they
left behind. And there are also plenty of amusement parks
in the area with Efteling being number one, followed by
Beekse Bergen, Oliemeulen and Dierenpark Nuenen.
Essential Tilburg
Koningshoeven Abbey J-5, Eindhovenseweg 3, tel.
(+31) 135 40 85 08, www.koningshoeven.nl. If you

think that only monks live in silence and spend the whole day
praying, take a look at the Trappist farm Onze Lieve Vrouw
van Koningshoeven. Here theyve been working hard every
day brewing one of Europes best beers since 1884. This is
still the most important source of income for the monastery,
partially thanks to exports to the United States where the
beer is sold under the name of Koningshoeven Trappist Ale.
Nine special beers are brewed here under the close supervision of the clergymen themselves. Visitors will get a great
impression of the whole brewing process in an audiovisual
tour or a proper guided tour of the abbey where 16 monks
between the ages of 24 to 81 live and work. Even if you dont
like beer, youll still enjoy a visit, as the peaceful surroundings
and the impressive complex with its characteristic towers are
certainly worth a look. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00. K
Buildings & Squares

013 D-2, Veemarktstraat 44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95 00,
www.013.nl. Pop Stage 013 is a combination of three concert halls and is the largest music temple in southern Holland.
The large Dommelsch Hall alone can offer space for at least
2,200 visitors. The building itself stands out because of the
round shapes on its exterior that make it look like its covered
with hundreds of CDs. 013 is conveniently located right on
Korte Heuvel, which means that many of the bands that play
here have a beer or whisky in one of the nearby cafs after a
gig. The Fun Lovin Criminals, Moby and members of Faithless
have all been spotted at pubs and clubs not far from here.
Q PJUEGX
Fontys Rock Academy C-4, Zwijsenplein 1, tel. (+31)
877 87 41 66, www.rockacademie.nl. Fontys Rock

Academy is but one of the six academies that comprise
the Fontys School of Fine and Performing Arts. Students
receive higher vocational education in pop music here.
The academy has brought forth a number of well-known
Dutch pop musicians including the rock band Krezip, Leaf
and Intwine. The distinctive building itself is worth a visit.
Q PJHREW
King Willem II Barracks / Tilburg Prison I-6,
Ringbaan Zuid 500, www.jeoudekazernenu.nl. The King

William II barracks were built just before WWII to house an
infantry battalion. Before this the Netherlands had always
lagged behind its neighbours with the expansion of its army,
but due to the danger of war with Germany, the year 1939 saw
the building of no less than 24 groups of barracks throughout
the country. After the liberation of Tilburg in 1944 the barracks
were used for various purposes until in 1993 it was finally
handed over to the Ministry of Justice to remedy a shortage
of prisons in the Netherlands. The barracks became a penal
institution, but when it was no longer needed the Ministry of
Justice decided to rent out the prison to Belgium that had a
prison shortage of its own.
Opulent surroundings in the Palace-Town Hall
King Willem II Stadium I-6, Goirleseweg 34, tel.
(+31) 135 49 05 90, www.willem-ii.nl. The stadium

where Tilburgs William II professional football club plays has
only existed in its current form since 1995. At the time it was
a state of the art building, as most Dutch stadia were standing room only prior to its completion. The club itself was
founded 100 years earlier and was once quite prestigious.
In fact, William II was the first Dutch professional club and
it won the league in the first year, a feat they only managed
on two other occasions. 10 years ago Willem IIs players
even faced the best of European football in the Champions
League, but, unfortunately, since then things have gone
from bad to worse. The team has been relegated to the
first division and the stadium is now considered to be rather
outdated, but its still worth a visit if youre in town and into
the beautiful game. A number of exhibitions detail the glory
days of old and if you ask the right person, youll be able
to have a look inside the stadium. QOpen 13:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sat, Sun. HL
Palace-Town Hall C-4, Stadhuisplein 130. Many Tilburg
wedding photos have been taken on the stairs of the PalaceTown Hall. King William II had the place built in 1847 as a
country retreat in his favourite town, but he died in 1849
only 22 days before its completion. In 1864 the Rijks Hogere
Burger school was established in the palace and its most
famous student was none other than Vincent van Gogh, who
studied there for two years. In the south wing of the palace
youll find a reconstruction of Vincents art room. Between
the years 1934 and 1936 it was converted into the Town
Hall. As the building had several purposes throughout the
years, theres not much left of the original design. Windows
were replaced and the entrance has been decorated in Art
Deco style. Today its part of the Town Hall and its connected by a footbridge to the black box. A marble statue of
King William II is located in the main entrance hall and an
Art Deco staircase with stained windows can also be seen.
A large book market is held on the square in front of the
palace each year on the last Sunday of August. QOpen
10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Theatres Tilburg (Schouwburg) B-4, Louisbouw-
meesterplein 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 22 20, www.theaterstilburg.nl. Voted one of the most beautiful buildings in the
Netherlands by a group of four leading Dutch architects in
2009, this theatre is literally a brick ode to the sixties. The
edifice perfectly fits its surroundings and still has a modern
look despite its age. Naturally a lot of rebuilding and renovating has taken place throughout the years, but much of the
decor is still from the 1960s, such as the benches that were
designed by the architect Bijvoet. Even the chairs inside the
theatre are originals. Q J
WHATTO
TO SEE
SEE
WHAT
The Water Tower I-6, Bredaseweg 207. Since 1897, Til-
burg has proudly possessed a water tower that still supplies

the cleanest spring water in the Netherlands. The construction of the water tower was a positive development for the
textile industry as well as public health, as the quality of city
water improved by leaps and bounds. The tower is 50m high
and built of brick. The entrance is characterised by a frame
decorated in a neo-Renaissance style. The tower initially
remained intact during WWII because the Germans used it
to gain healthy drinking water and also as a watchtower over
Tilburg. Unfortunately, it was damaged when the Nazis were
driven out of Tilburg. Q Y
Tilburg University H-5, Warandelaan 2, tel. (+31) 134
66 91 11, www.tilburguniversity.edu. The University

of Tilburg was established in 1927 as a Catholic business
school. Now, many years later, its the leading university
in the Netherlands in business studies and its Faculty of
Economics is the third most renowned in Europe. Its many
high-rise university buildings are surrounded by woodland so
the higher floors offer superb views of the greenery outside
and the Tilburg skyline. Roughly 12,000 students study here
at six different faculties every day, or at least the ones that
arent hungover from the often exhausting student lifestyle.
Student housing surrounds the hundreds of square meters
of university buildings and theres even a supermarket and a
student pub on the premises. An amusing piece of trivia: In
the 1980s all higher vocational education institutes received
permission to call themselves universities. This caused a
problem for the Katholieke Hogeschool Tilburg, as it was
called then. Because Catholic University Tilburg would stand
for a rather inappropriate abbreviation (kut, a very rude Dutch
word for the female genitalia) for a while the University opted
to call itself Catholic University Brabant. In 2001 the university
received the name it now carries, but in international circles
its often known as Tilburg University. QOpen 07:30 - 18:30.
Closed Sat, Sun. GKW
Westpoint I-5, Hart van Brabantlaan. The sixth tallest
building in Holland was built in Tilburg in 2004. Westpoint

measures an impressive 143m in height, which is less
than 22 meters shorter than the Maastoren in Rotterdam,
the Netherlands tallest edifice. Hundreds of people live
and work in this colourful concrete colossus, which can be
seen from several kilometres away due to its frequent use
of distinctive light sources. The 47m-tower contains 154
apartments. Q
Tilburg University has thousands of students
Memories of war
All of the Netherlands
including Tilburg was
occupied by the German army during World
War II. Today, numerous monuments have
been erected in honour
of the wars victims and
heroes, its resistance
fighters and liberators.
The two best known
are the Memorial of
the 15th Scottish Division created in 1989
and the Royal Dutch
Princess Irene Bri gade Memorial from
1955, both of which
can be found at Stadhuisplein (town Hall Square).
They honour the memory of the soldiers who liberated
Tilburg in October 1944.
Every year on Remembrance Day (May 4) flower
wreaths are placed at the bronze statue of a Scottish
bagpipe player, known as The Piper, and the soldier.
The Dutch Resistance was also active in Tilburg and
there are two memorials that honour these brave
freedom fighters including Coba Pulskens, the best
known liberation fighter from Tilburg. One is located
at the Diepenstraat and one at the Coba Pulskenslaan. Jacoba Pulskens (1884 - 1945) offered lodgings
to Jews, members of the resistance and stranded
Allied pilots. On July 9, 1944, just months before the
liberation of Tilburg, the Gestapo carried out a raid
on Pulskens house and killed three pilots in hiding.
Pulskens was arrested and taken to the Ravenbrck
concentration camp where she was gassed in 1945.
The Helga Deen Garden on Willem II Straat is
named after a Jewish girl from Tilburg who died in
the Sobibor death camp. She kept a diary during
her detention in an SS concentration camp (Camp
Vught National Memorial). There are also a number
of general memorials to other victims. The Carillon
Tower (1965) next to Central Station is an example.
Due to its remarkable shape the tower is nicknamed
the Clothespin. At the Jewish cemetery theres also a
monument to Jewish victims.
Individual victims havent been forgotten either.
There are memorials for six members of the staff of
the railways work room (Dn Atelier at NS Square),
the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Memorial (1945,
Ringbaan-Zuid) for the neighbours of the Broekhoven
estate who were killed, a plaque in Central Station
for W. van Kuijk and one in the Koning Willem II College
(Grammar School Koning Willem II; 1947) for students
who were killed (amongst them Helga Deen and Ren
Norenburg).
Inside the Palace-Town Hall a stain glass window
commemorates the liberation of Tilburg and the
restoration of the legitimate authorities, the distress
suffered by the people and the rebuilding of the city.
Additionally, the Indies Memorial from 2001 by
Gerard van Swietenstraat honours soldiers killed in
the former Dutch Indies and a Hiroshima Memorial
is located at the Vijfsprong. Naturally, war graves
are located at several local cemeteries. Photo of the
Tilburg Monument to the 15th Scottish Division.
Spring/Summer 2013
E35
E36
WHAT TO SEE
Churches & Religious buildings
Hasselt Chapel H-5, Hasseltplein, tel. (+31) 134 68
10 89, www.hasseltsekapel.nl. This chapel is located on a

small square and dates back to 1536. The statue of Mary was
added to the chapel in 1796 and now the church organises
an open day during celebrations honouring Mary. This small
house of prayer has had several functions over the years
from a weavers house and a guest house to an emergency
hospital. These days the charming chapel is mainly used as
a place to get married, although a prayer service is held once
a month. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00.
St. Dionysos Church C-3, Stadhuisstraat 370. The

present Church of St. Dionysius, popularly known as Heikese
Church, was completed in 1826. Its style is neoclassical and
inside youll find pillars with Ionian capitals. The tower is the
only remaining authentic part of the original 15th-century
Gothic church, which makes it the oldest church in Tilburg.
Due to the new bricks that were added in 1895, the tower
actually seems to be newer than the rest of the building.
The Heikese Church also has two 15th-century candleholders and a 17th-century painting in its possession. QOpen
, Sat 18:30 - 20:00, Sun 10:30 - 12:00. Closed Mon, Tue,
Wed, Thu, Fri. J
St. Josephs Church D-2, Heuvelring 122. St. Josephs
Church, which people in Tilburg often refer to as Heuvelse

Church, is a neo-Gothic cross-shaped basilica with three
transepts. The church, which was designed by Hendrik van
Tulder, was built between 1872 and 1889. The two octagonal
72m-high towers at the front stand out and make this church
the fourth highest building in Tilburg. The church displays
many influences from the French Gothic period as well as St.
Johns Cathedral in Den Bosch. In the 1950s the transept
was extended. The main organ as well as the choir organ
and the church itself are national monuments. Q Open
08:00 - 18:30. J
St. Pauls Church B-3, Heuvelstraat 141, www.

pkn-tilburg.nl. This neoclassical style octagonal St. Pauls
Church was originally built in 1822 as a protestant house of
worship. A much older pipe organ from 1765 was later placed
in the church and is still there to be admired. King William I
of Holland visited the church only once, but King Willem ll of
Holland visited the church whenever he stayed in Tilburg. In
2004 it was thoroughly renovated and both the church and the
organ are now considered to be national monuments. These
days St. Pauls belongs to an Indonesian-Dutch Christian
congregation. Q J
Sleymanye Mosque I-5, Wandelboslaan 2, tel.
(+31) 135 35 03 92, www.suleymaniye.nl. The architecture of Tilburgs biggest mosque is a combination of modern
and Islamic styles. The roof of the building resembles a
half moon, with a star on top, but this isnt really visible
from the ground. The star protrudes slightly to indicate
the direction of Mecca. If youd like to see the interior you
have to make an appointment. Tours are on Tuesdays and
Wednesdays. Q G
Avans Hogeschool Cobbenhagenlaan 13, www.avans.

nl. The thousands of students who climb the stairs to their
unique school building every day probably take its unusual
architecture for granted. Anyone else who takes the trouble
to have a closer look at Avans Hogeschool will most likely
be impressed when first faced with this gigantic concrete
colossus. The bright green faade and the entrance with its
wide stairs are uncommon to Dutch architecture. If you ignore
the colours you could even imagine this building gracing an
enormous freedom square in some obscure city in North
Korea or China. Once inside, space prevails and you can see
through the entire building from front to back. What seem to
be empty spaces and wide passages are actually effective
meeting points for students. Q
Monuments
Monument to the 15th Scottish Division C-4, Stadhuisplein. This monument was erected in honour of the 15th
Scottish Division. This division of the Scottish army liberated
Tilburg from German occupation on October 27, 1944. The
sculpture represents a bagpipe player. Q J
The Clothespin C-1, Spoorlaan. This monument in
remembrance of the victims of World War II can be found

to the right of the Central Station. Its a bell tower with 12
small clocks, but due to its shape its popularly known as
the clothes-pin. Q
Museums
Brabant Museum of Nature B-2, Spoorlaan 434, tel.
(+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant.nl.

The magnificent building of Natuurmuseum Brabant houses
thousands of beautiful stuffed animals, fossils, plants and
insects. Although the entire museum is so child-friendly that
it almost seems like it was built solely for kids, this isnt the
case. Adults will find plenty of interesting exhibits to keep
them occupied. In the new OO-zone, the Ontdek en Onderzoek
(Discover and Research) part of the museum, you can explore
nature yourself. Compare bones or browse through one of the
hundreds of books about flora and fauna. Youll be amazed
by the beautiful animals behind the glass of the high display
cabinets. In addition to all this, the museum also has temporary exhibitions like Moeders Mooiste (Beauty is in the eye
of the beholder), where you can learn about exotic animals.
Discover how a humming bird uses its beak as a pipette and
how a giraffe can have a neck of up to 160cm in length. One
of the permanent exhibitions is Brabant in de Ban van Buiten
(Brabant under the spell of the outdoors). Here you explore
the diverse flora and fauna that make the Brabant region
so special. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon. Adults: 7, children 4 - 17: 5. TJAGK
Modern architecture
Appartementenvilla I-5, Bisschop Zwijsenstraat.
The apartments and villas on the corner of the Primus
van Gils Park and the Bisschop Zwijssenstraat prove that
contemporary architecture and its stern lines can be very
attractive indeed. This inhabited work of art was developed
as a pavilion and offers a 360 degree panoramic view of
Tilburgs city centre. Q
Kids love the Brabant Museum of Nature
WHAT TO SEE
Out of town
Beekse Bergen Safari Park M-8, Beekse Bergen 31,
The Textile Museum is a must-see in Tilburg
De Pont I-5, Wilhelminapark 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 83 00,

www.depont.nl. De Pont combines the history of Tilburg with
art. Since 1992 this former wool mill has served as an exhibition space for numerous works by contemporary artists. The
natural light in the large hall illuminates the pieces in all their
glory. The so-called wool cages house small rooms where
you can see even more works of art. There are temporary
exhibitions and the permanent exhibition contains works
by Charlotte Dumas, Anton Henning, Wolfgang Laib, Steve
McQueen and Giuseppe Penone. Q
Textile Museum I-5, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31) 135 36
74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. The Textile Museum offers

insight into the rich history of the textile industry in Tilburg. Its
housed in a 19th-century building and the collection is divided
into four sections: textile science, design, industrial culture and
arts. One of the most impressive exhibits which every visitor
to Tilburg should see is the display of textile machines. Youll
be transported to a time when steam-powered machines ran
continually to provide Europe with textiles. The place still smells
of wool and oil. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
Admission: adults 7, children 13 - 18 years 3, children 7 - 12
years 1.75, children 6 and under free. TUK
Vincents Art Room C-4, Stadhuisplein 128, tel.

(+31) 135 42 91 97, www.vincentstekenlokaal.nl. King
William II had this beautiful residence built for himself in the
centre of Tilburg, but he passed away just before the it was
completed. The Royal Family donated the palace to the city
and it was turned into the so-called Higher Citizens School.
Hidden beneath the palace youll find Vincents Tekenlokaal
(Vincents Drawing Room). This space is named after the
most famous person to have lived in the city. One of the first
students to study here was the now world-famous Vincent
van Gogh. In 1886 he took classes here at the age of 13.
The renowned painter received four or five hours of drawing
lessons a week in the classroom of C.C. Huijsmans. Vincents
Tekenlokaal can be viewed again via an exact reconstruction
thats decorated with a modern touch. Computers teach you
about the illustrious painter and his experiences in school.
Along the staircase to the drawing room, Van Goghs wandering existence is clarified with a time line of his turbulent life.
Other than that, pieces of text from letters that he wrote to his
brother Theo are on display. Historical images also illustrate
how beautiful Tilburg must have looked in Van Goghs time.
This was long before mayor Cees Becht (aka Demolition
Man) rid Tilburg of its beautiful architecture. You can also
see a class photo of Van Gogh, although even experts still
argue over which child is actually Vincent. The photo is very
valiable, as only four other photographs are known to exist of
the eccentric genius. Still, Vincents Tekenlokaal is more of an
actual drawing room than a museum. In a separate room you
can learn to draw digitally on an interactive screen. QOpen
13:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJ
Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31) 135 49 12 00, www.safaripark.

nl. De Beekse Bergen is the biggest and most popular zoo/
safari park in the Netherlands. More than 1500 animals live
here in a relatively large area. One of its main attractions is
the many ways in which you can view the creatures. Most
visitors drive around the park in large safari vans, but visitors
with their own cars can also drive past the lions, giraffes and
rhinos very slowly. A rest area with plenty of goodies is available halfway through the park near the tigers, penguins and
flamingos. Here you can also switch to a safari boat. Its also
possible to explore the park on foot as a path a few miles
long leads you past monkeys, elephants, bears and many
other animals. Children can burn off some adrenaline at the
Kilimanjaro playground. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Admission:
adults 19.95, children 3 - 11 years 17.95. TULBK
Dierenrijk Nuenen Baroniehei, Nuenen, tel. (+31) 492
66 82 40, www.dierenrijk.nl. Dierenpark Nuenen near

Eindhoven offers polar bears, elephants, tigers, Barbary macaques, seals and lots of other animals as well as childrens
attractions. Apart from the feeding presentations and musical
shows, the park also illustrates how animals live. The park
gained international attention when 24-year-old Beja, the
oldest captive polar bear in the world, gave birth to a cub.
QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. (15.50). TAULG
Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp Lunetten-
laan 600, Vught, tel. (+31) 736 56 67 64, www.

nmkampvught.nl. A small part of this former SS concentration camp houses the Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp
Museum. There is a memorial centre, a preserved part of
the old camp that has remained unchanged and the execution grounds where prisoners were shot. The crematorium,
the rebuilt barrack and the monument to to the camps child
victims are especially moving. In total, at least 31,000 people
were imprisoned in the camp between January 1943 and
September 1944 for shorter or longer durations. Alongside
Jews were other unlucky souls, mostly Roma (Gypsies),
resistance activists and Jehovahs witnesses. Of these
people, 421 children, women and men died in the camp from
hunger, disease, and maltreatment; 329 prisoners were shot
just outside the camp. But for the majority of the prisoners,
Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp was an intermediate
stop. From here they were transported to other camps,
which, in most cases, meant death. The museum is open
on Mondays in the months July and August (12:00 - 17:00).
QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon.
Admission: donations. THULG
Liqueur & Soda Museum M-8, Varkensmarkt 22,
Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31) 135 05 31 19, www.likeurfrismuseum.nl. In Hilvarenbeek, southeast of Tilburg, they
know everything about making spirits... and soft drinks. After
all, some drinks are better with a good mixer or at least a
chaser. This museum, which is interesting for both young
and old, will teach you that both drinks happen to have the
same ingredients including water, sugar and flavourings and
the only real difference between them is the alcohol. This
fascinating museum also has the most extensive collection
of liqueurs in Europe. The old distillery and an avocat (egg
liqueur) factory from 1833 are the main attractions and although the museum may seem a bit corny and old-fashioned
to seasoned sightseers, it offers an interesting historical
picture of both drinks. QOpen 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon.
Open April - October 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission:
adults 6, children 4 - 16 years 5 including a soft drink or
liqueur for adults. TJU
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WHAT TO SEE
Museum of Religious Art Vorstenburg 1, Uden, tel.
(+31) 413 26 34 31, www.museumvoorreligieuzekunst.

nl/. The province of Brabant used to be full of monasteries.
However, the majority of these remarkable buildings have
been given a new destination by now. One of the few still
active (womens) convents is located in Uden, southeast of
Tilburg. Six sisters of the Bridgettine Order devoted to the
Passion of Jesus Christ united in the Abbey Maria Refugie,
maintain age-old traditions here. Isolated from the outside
world and still behind thick bars. Living an austere life serving
God and wearing rather odd caps. For Holland this is a first
class cultural document in which medieval thinking, Bridgettine
spirituality and the twenty-first century harmoniously come
together. Particularly now the old wings of the abbey have
been renovated for use as a museum. This Museum of Religious Art, which was founded in 1973, serves enthusiasts
of religious art and church artifacts. The small but excellent
museum houses a large number of medieval sculptures, a
group of very rare monstrance dated around 1500, a large
collection of popular devotional objects (including tens of
thousands of In Memoriam cards) and numerous papers
and documents illustrating the history of the abbey and the
region. The collections of icons and modern religious art are
exceptional. The herb garden, with more than 150 different
kinds of plants, is also worth a visit. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00,
Sat, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (5). TULG
The Village Doctor M-8, Doelenstraat 53, Hilvaren-
beek, tel. (+31) 135 05 40 93, www.museumdedorpsdokter.nl. The past has been coming to life at the Village
Doctor (De Dorpsdokter) museum in Hilvarenbeek for over
25 years. The historic building under a picturesque mill has
been split into two exhibits. Woolly mammoth bones give a
hint at prehistoric times and the rich Roman Catholic culture
of the area is illustrated through a variety of antique items,
but its really the country doctors medical odds and ends that
deserve the most attention here. Apart from a collection of
fascinating medical pictures and books, there are a number of
horrific instruments guaranteed to give any visitor the creeps.
These days a skilled carpenter could use these saws and pliers to build a beautiful house, but only a century and a half ago
these were the standard tools of the trade used by a country
doctor who often had to serve as a surgeon, gynaecologist,
dentist, midwife, ophthalmologist and pharmacist all in one.
Unfortunately, the explanations of the implements are only
available in Dutch. QOpen , Mon 13:00 - 16:00. Closed
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun. In July and August opened from
Tuesday to Sunday from 13:00-17:00. Op Sundays in May,
June and September opened from 13:00-17:00 uur. Admission: adults 2, children 5 - 12 years 1. TJL
Parks, gardens & Cemeteries

Bredaseweg Cemetery A-3, Bredaseweg 45. The best-
known cemetery in Tilburg is Roman Catholic and dates back

to 1828. A number of distinct, white cast-iron statues seem to
guard the graveyard on the side facing the street. Youll also
find a remarkable work of illumination art, which is directed at
one of the statues. Many unique tombstones can be found in
the cemetery itself, like Marietje Kessels. She was murdered
in 1900, aged 11. Her body was found in the archway of the
Sacred Heart Church which was demolished in 1975. The
murderer was never found, but many people suspect it was
somebody linked with the church. QOpen 09:00 - 21:30.
Helga Deen Garden & Tilburg Synagogue C-2,

Willem II straat 20. Helga Deen is essentially the Tilburg
version of Anne Frank. Theres a little park in the centre of
town named after this Jewish girl who kept a diary during
her incarceration in an SS-concentration camp (National
Monument Camp Vught). There are only a few bushes, some
shrubbery, nine small chairs and several Stars of David in the
paving stones, but this 16m2 park wasnt created at random.
The little park was named after the 18-year-old Helga who
later died in the Sobibr concentration camp in Nazi-occupied
Poland. Whoever comes here can have a moment of silence to
contemplate a dark chapter in Dutch history. Q J
Leijpark J-6, Ringbaan Zuid. This 30 hectare city park
designed in English landscape style was created between

1934 - 1939 as an unemployment relief project. The park
contains a small creek called De Ley, which gives the park
its name. The Leypark is a pleasant park to walk in and in
the summer this is where Festival Mundial takes place, which
draws about 60,000 visitors each year.
Muse Garden C-4, Zwijsenplein 1. Since theres little

greenery to be found in Tilburg, sitting in this city park is like
a breath of fresh air. Although there are only eight trees in the
garden, it seems like more. The garden is located beside a little
old church, which has been integrated among the new buildings
of the dance academy. Traffic noise is dampened by the walls
of the school and other city sounds can barely be heard here.
On a sunny day you can enjoy the grassy surroundings, which
include statues as well as the architectural tangle of the new
school buildings that surround the little church. If youre in luck,
you might even see a live performance by students practising
their newly acquired dance moves or hear a violin or an opera
singer trying to hit the right note at a rehearsal. Q TJ
Oude Warande H-5, Warandelaan. This is the only remain-
ing star forest and one of the oldest baroque forests in The
Netherlands. The German prince Wilhelm Von Hessen-Kassel
had it designed in 1712. The lanes crossing the forest come
together in the centre forming a star pattern. The four different
parts each have their own pattern: square, circular, diamond
shape and octagonal. The forest covers 60 hectares and it
boasts several works of art, including one by Rien Claessen
called Inanitas, which means open space. The latest addition
is Pavilion Grotto, designed by Australian artist Callum Morton.
The Old Waranda is a relaxing place thats ideal for running
and youll see many people doing just that. Q
Wilhelminapark I-5, Wilhelminapark. The Wilhelmina
Monument at the Bredaseweg Cemetery
Park is one of the oldest parks in Tilburg. It was designed

in 1898 in romantic fashion by Leonard Springer who also
designed the Wandelbos and Leijpark in the city. Theres a
duck pond, open pastures and winding paths between the
trees. Many students from the surrounding dorms move their
books and other vital learning materials (like bottles of beer)
to the park on sunny days. Q TJ6
WHAT TO SEE
Peerke Donders Statue I-5, Wilhelminapark. Petrus
Tilburgs famous Jug Pisser
Places of interest
Old Town Square D-2/3, Heuvelplein. De Heuvel is the
central square in Tilburg and the most important shopping

street, de Heuvelstraat, leads up to it. In 1419 den Hoevel
was named for the first time. Until the water tower on Bredaseweg was built in 1898, Tilburgers could only get water
from de Heuvel as it was the only place with a water pump. A
replica of this pump can still be found on the Oude Markt. Until
1994 the square boasted an old lime tree, but despite major
protests, the dead tree was finally uprooted. Wood from the
tree has since been used to create the mayors gavel and in
a tableau in the city hall. The square was completely rebuilt
in 2008 and three descendants of the old lime tree were
planted in prominent places in the middle of the square. De
Heuvel also boasts a statue of King William II, who proudly
looks over the city he loved so much. Q
Tilburg Regional Archives E-3, Kazernehof 75, tel.
(+31) 135 49 45 70, www.regionaalarchieftilburg.nl. Do

you really want to know everything about Tilburg? As early as
AD 709, the year that Tilburg was first mentioned, documents
and files were kept about its residents, districts, streets and
important events. At the Tilburg Regional Archives you can see
how Tilburg evolved over the centuries. Its not a museum, but
of course its fun to have a look at the old books yourself. With
a bit of effort youll find the most extraordinary facts about the
town and its past. Besides, the building itself is worth a visit
because its housed in King Willem IIs old stables. QOpen
09:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun. J
Sightseeing tours
Stadsgidserij www.stadsgidserij.nl. If you want to dis-
cover Tilburg with a professional guide, you can sign up for a

tour from the Stadsgidserij. You can book various walks, such
as the centre walk, the centre west walk (which includes a
visit to the cemetery on the Bredaseweg), the hasselt walk
(where the Tilburg Castle once stood), the art walk, the architecture walk and the culinary walk. Walks in various other
neighbourhoods of Tilburg that have rich histories are also
possible. Whichever route you choose youre guaranteed a
fun, informative walk and youll discover places that you would
have never found by yourself. The walks dont take place
every day so visit its website for exact times and dates. Q
Statues
King Willem II Needle C-4, Stadhuisplein. King William
II died in his home in Tilburg at the very place where this

obelisk, which was erected in 1874, now stands. In 1968 the
monument was moved to make room for the construction
of a motorway. After years of storage, it appeared to be too
heavily damaged to restore so a new one was made. The
medallion with the portrait of William II is the only remaining
piece of the original obelisk. Q
Norbertus Donders, affectionately known as Peerke Donders,

is one of Tilburgs most famous personalities. He was born
in 1809 as the son of a domestic weaver in this town known
for its textile industry and after a few detours he ended up
studying to be a priest. After becoming a member of the
clergy he left for Paramaribo in Suriname to work with lepers.
A bronze statue was erected at the edge of the attractive
Wilhelmina Park in 1926 in remembrance and honour of
Donders, the priest from Tilburg who was later beatified by
Pope John Paul II in 1982. Peerke Donders position on his
pedestal symbolises his work. The raised cross in his right
hand refers to his conversion work and his left hand on the
head of the second person represents his caring for the sick.
On the right side of the concrete pedestal youll find the coat
of arms of Tilburg to indicate his place of birth and the other
side is decorated with a ship at sea which pays homage to
Suriname, the country where Peerke Donders eventually died
and in whose capital he was buried. Q J
The Jug Pisser B-3, Nieuwlandstraat. This small statue
was designed by Henk Smulders and erected in 1986. The

sculptor is also known for the many statues he created for
The Efteling theme park. The sculpture honours Tilburgs
past textile industry. The residents of Tilburg used to save
their urine in jugs, which was then used to wash wool in the
factories, hence the Jug Pisser. Q J
Willem II Statue D-2, Heuvel. Tilburg bought this statue
in 1924 from The Hague and gave it a prominent place

on De Heuvel. The statue represents King William II as
commander-in-chief of the army. On the pedestal beneath
the royal there are four figures. The woman with a crown and
sceptre represents the monarchy. To her right sits Law. On
the backside there is Prosperity, complete with the Horn of
Plenty and coins. The last figure originally held a palladium,
a figurine of the deity of ancient Troy. This refers to the role
of William II as patron of the Netherlands. On the right side of
the pedestal is a lion with a sword between his front paws,
which represents the battles in which William II took part. Q
Theme parks
Efteling M-7, Europalaan 1, Kaatsheuvel, tel. 09000161, www.efteling.com. This theme park is divided into
four sections: the Adventure Realm, the Fairy Realm, the
Alternative Realm and the Travel Realm. A great way to get
the lay of the land is to take the train that traverses the park.
In the Alternative Realm youll find rides with a specific theme.
Like most parks this one can get insanely busy so if you want
to beat at least some of the crowds go as early as possible
and on a weekday. Bus No.169 from Tilburg take you here in
less than half an hour. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. One-day ticket:
32, children under 4 free. THAULGBKXS
Zoos & Animals parks

De Oliemeulen H-5, Reitse Hoevenstraat 30, tel. (+31)
134 63 00 26, www.oliemeulen.nl. This house of reptiles

isnt for the faint hearted. Youll see tarantulas, piranhas, tiger
pythons and crocodiles. Its a large building with a number of
departments and the front section of the farmhouse displays
all kinds of special frogs in bright colours. A little further on,
youll arrive at the chameleons, adders and snapping turtles
and spiders and snakes can be found in the attic. Monkeys,
meerkats and parrots are housed in the enormous garden
and on busy days and on weekends theres an impressive
presentation of birds of prey. If you have similar pets you can
buy live beetles, spiders and particularly fat maggots here to
feed your snake or frog at home. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. B
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GETTING AROUND
Getting around Tilburg is pretty simple, but here are a few
tips and suggestions. The old town is in fact so small, that
you can easily get everywhere you need to go on foot. If
you have to go a bit further, we recommend renting a bike.
Travelling to farther destinations by bus or train requires
an OV-chipkaart.
Public transport
The OV-chipkaart is the allows you to use the entire public
transport system in the Netherlands. The smart card is
the size of a bank card and contains an invisible chip. The
OV-chipkaart can be loaded with credit in euros with which
you can travel anywhere within the country, or with another
travel product such as a single or season ticket. You can
also choose a personal, anonymous or disposable card. The
personal OV-chipkaart can be purchased online or from the
city public transport company. The anonymous OV-chipkaart
can be bought at the ticket office and vending machines at
the station. The disposable card can be purchased at the
station vending machine. This card allows the holder to travel
immediately, but it cant be re-charged with another than the
original travel product.
You have to check in at the gate of the tram or bus by
holding your OV-chipkaart up to the screen. The sound and
light signal indicates your card has been read. The credit on
your OV-chipkaart should be enough to cover the boarding
rate or you wont be allowed to go through the gate. At the end
of your journey, you check out by holding your card up to the
gate screen. The sound and light signal once again indicate
that your card has been read. If you are traveling using the
OV-chipkaart e-purse, the actual travel costs, based on the
distance travelled, minus the boarding rate is deducted from
or added to the e-purse. Checking in and out is required
when you transfer from any one form of transport to another,
except when you transfer from one train to another.
Buses
Tilburg has eight city buses, two district buses, and various
regional buses that will transport you to various places. The
city centre is more easily manageable on foot, however. With
line 169 you have a direct connection to entertainment park
De Efteling. And at night there are two nightliners going
through Tilburg from the Spoorlaan, which deposit people,
more or less drunk, as the case may be, safely at various
places.The bus transportation is managed by Veolia Transport Brabant which starts to the right of the central train
station. A large sign with place names and departure times
can be found at the edge of the bus station, and the service
office is located on the other side of the bus station in the
Tilburion apartment complex.
For those who only make a brief visit to the textile city,
the bus driver sells day tickets on the bus, that allow you to
travel throughout the province of Brabant for 3/person,
all day long. They do appreciate it if you can provide exact
change. For more information visit www.9292ov.nl.
Taxis
Ordering a taxi by phone will get you better service and
lower rates for longer distances. The following companies
are among the most reliable of the bunch. And please note
that all licensed cabs in all of the Netherlands have special
licence plates. A pricelist and the starting rate should be
clearly visible behind the window. And in case if you have a
terrible or rude driver, its easy to pinpoint him, as his personal
licence should be displayed near the radio.
Algemene Taxi Service Tel. (+31) 135 42 08 00.

Stationtaxi B-1, tel. (+31) 135 43 21 00.
Taxi Baron Tel. (+31) 135 32 18 38, www.taxibaron.nl.
Taxicentrale Midden Brabant Tel. (+31) 135 83
83 83.
Taxi Reeshof Tel. (+31) 138 50 11 11, www.taxiree-
Bicycles
The city has a substantial network of cycle paths, known as
the star net-route or the red cycle paths, which criss-cross
their way through the city. The network enables students (and
their professors!) to cycle to the university quickly and safely.
You can rent a bicycle at the central station at Fietspoint
Derks for 7.50/day. The bicycles have handbrakes and
gears which allow you to decide how hard you want to pedal.
Taking a bike on the train will cost you 6 for the whole day.
The city has five free guarded indoor bicycle parks: Heuvel,
Concertzaal, Katterug, Pieter Vreedeplein and Stappegoor.
Heuvel has the longest opening hours, i.e., Sunday through
Wednesday until 02:30 and Thursday through Saturday until
04:30. We dont recommend the bicycle parking at the central
train station. Its always filled to bursting, and its not guarded,
so city workers arent the only people confiscating bicycles.
shof.nl.
Trains
Tilburg has three train stations: Central Station, Tilburg
Universiteit and Tilburg Reeshof. The facade of the Central
train station faces the city centre and to get to where you
want to go all you need to do is cross the street and turn
left or walk straight.
For waiting travellers there are two kiosks, a shop with
coffee and cakes, a bookshop and a Sushi restaurant within
the station. Outside you will also find a kebab shop and a tiny
supermarket. You can purchase train tickets at the service
desk in the hall or at one of the ticket dispensers. Note that
the ticket dispensers do not always accept foreign bank
cards, so make sure you have plenty of coins with you to
operate them. Close to the entrance you can change foreign
currencies into euros and vice versa. Tilburg Universiteit
and Tilburg Reeshof can only be reached by a stoptrein (a
train which stops at all small stations). Tilburg Universiteit
is a small way station with three tracks and is located close
to Tilburg University. Tilburg Reeshof has two tracks and
connects to the most westerly part of Tilburg, a new estate
called Reeshof.
For more information visit www.ns.nl. Taking a bike on
the train will cost you 6 for the whole day.
Central Station (Centraal Station) B-1. Although

Tilburgs Central Station
smaller than some of its larger sister stations Tilburg central

station seems better equipped and easier to navigate. The
station has a comfortable atmosphere that stems from the
many amenities it offers.
GETTING
TILBURGAROUND
NOORD
Tilburg Noord (North) is a residential area north of the Wilhelmina Canal that flows through Tilburg. The neighbourhoods in the district were built in the 1960s and 70s and
the Moerenburg Landscape Park is also part and parcel of
Tilburg Noord. The area is home to a population of 23,400
inhabitants.
Eating & Drinking

Caf Zomerlust J-5, Oisterwijksebaan 15, tel. (+31)
135 425 292, www.cafezomerlust.nl. Although the name

suggests otherwise, this caf is open all year round for anyone
who wants a day out and some fresh air. The caf, which
opened in 1936, is the perfect starting point for a bike ride
or a walk through Moerenburg Landscape Park. Inside you can
sit next to the decades old coal stove and order a fresh salad
or a soup. All of the ingredients come from one of the garden
allotments across the street, so you know theyre fresh. In
the summer you can relax on the covered terrace or enjoy
the summer sun. Zomerlust offers a big Sunday breakfast and
also serves as an information centre for the Moerenburg park.
QOpen 12:00 - 24:00, Fri 12:00 - 01:00, Sat 11:00 - 01:00,
Sun 10:00 - 00:00. Closed Tue. TH6EBKW
Wok Dynasty M-7, Kalverstraat 75, tel. (+31) 134 55

80 83, www.wokdynasty.nl. This Chinese/Japanese wok
restaurant located on the edge of town offers an extensive
menu of pretty much anything Asian, but most people come
here for the all-you-can-eat buffet. You can get a lot of food
for relatively little money, which is why its an ideal place for
the frugal Dutch who know how to make the most of their
cash. Unfortunately, not much attention has been paid to the
dcor. Although it looks more or less like a cosy farmhouse
from the outside, inside its more like a gigantic food factory
permeated by the penetrating smell of fried food. QOpen
16:30 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (25 - 27). UBK
Shopping
Wagnerplein I-4, Wagnerplein, www.wagnerplein.nl.
This is the largest shopping centre in Tilburg Noord. Musicians and artists frequently perform here and sometimes it
hosts small-scale festivals. There are a handful of shops that
are also open on Friday nights. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon
13:00 - 18:00, Fri 09:30 - 20:00. TU
Sightseeing
De Ouwe Stokerij I-4, Leharstraat 110, tel. (+31)
Moerenburg Landscape Park J-5, Oisterwijksebaan
The 7 Hillranch H-4, Zevenheuvelenweg 30, tel. (+31)
The Peerke Donders Pavilion: Museum for Compassion J-4, Pater Dondersstraat 20, tel. (+31) 134 55
134 55 11 18, www.deouwestokerij.nl. Although this

restaurant has only been open three years, the management
claims it has been here since 1769. What is remarkable
about this place, which is decorated in medieval style, is
that the customer is allowed to choose from an authentic
Burgundian menu. We highly recommend the so-called
Stokersmenu, where your table is stocked with all kinds of
meats and fish and you are allowed to make your own soup.
A large pan of broth is put on the table and you then add
your own vegetables, meat and other ingredients. Patrons
are offered homemade liqueurs and the wine list, although
not very extensive, is exceptionally good. Service is carried
out in Burgundian style meaning everything in its own time in
a mellow atmosphere. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon,
Tue. (18 - 23). GX
134 68 45 40, www.7hillranch.nl. If this restaurant ever
goes broke, it could immediately re-open as a kids playground
or as a Wild West museum. After all, no cost has been spared
to appropriate the perfect knick-knacks for this Americanstyle restaurant. The idea is very simple. Wagonloads of
food, particularly meat dishes, are set out in a buffet for all
the hungry cowboys and Indians. The all-you-can-eat spread
will cost you around 24. QOpen , Thu 12:00 - 23:00, Fri
12:00 - 24:00, Sat 17:00 - 24:00, Sun 17:00 - 21:30. Closed
Mon, Tue, Wed. PTA6UKS
15, www.moerenburg.info. This beautiful landscape park

situated between a canal, train tracks and a highway is
within a 15-minute bike ride from the centre of Tilburg. When
you get there youll be amazed by the striking beauty of the
countryside. On sunny days youll find cyclists and walkers
everywhere enjoying the open meadows and ponds while
ornithologists can often be seen searching for rare birds.
Around the year 1310, this estate housed one of the first
three stone buildings erected in Tilburg, Huize Moerenburg,
and is an important part of the citys history. The artwork
is of particular importance as it shows the outlines of the
original building that no longer exists. Over 1200 plant and
animal species live here, some of which are unique to Brabant
and even the Netherlands. Caf Zomerlust, which is located
in the park, is also home to the Moerenburg visitors centre.
72 45, www.peerkedonders.nl. A modern museum was

erected next to a tiny house in Tilburg where the beatified friar
and missionary Peerke Donders used to live with his parents.
The Peerke Donders Pavilion and Museum for Compassion
is divided into three rooms. The first one offers information
about the life and work of Peerke, the second displays a
permanent exhibition about charity and mercy and the third
room is for temporary exhibitions. Next to the museum, you
can enter Peerkes old home where youll discover how he
lived in a building about the size of a postage stamp. On
the other side of the house you can take a look at the little
church that was built in Surinamese style after Peerkes death
to honour the priest and his charitable work in that nation.
QOpen 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. K
Where to stay
Buitenom J-5, Broekstraat 4, tel. (+31) 646 42 88 77,
Moerenburg Landscape Park
www.buitenomtilburg.nl. Dont be surprised if you find a

small horse looking through your bedroom window when you
wake up at Bed & Breakfast Buitenom. The friendly owners
have furnished a room for guests on the ground floor of this
farmhouse, which includes a seating area and a modern
bathroom as well as a private terrace with an attractive view
of the rural surroundings. This clean and tidy accommodation
can be found at the edge of the Moerenburg nature reserve.
Q1 room (1 double 65 - 85). 6GB
Spring/Summer 2013
E41
E42
SHOPPING
While Tilburg isnt exactly a shoppers paradise in the traditional sense, its arty reputation makes it a great place
to pick up antiques, artwork and jewellery. Tilburgs most
popular shopping area is the pedestrian street of De Heuvel. The citys main department stores are also located
here. Enough patisseries and delicatessens are available
along the way to recharge from any shopping spree.
Antiques
De Refter B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 23 - 25, tel. (+31) 135
43 12 29 , www.refter.nl. If youre in the market for religious
art, furniture, religious books or antique monastic objects,
than this is the place for you. QOpen Fri 12:00 - 18:00, Sat
11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun.
Bookshops & Media

De Zevensprong B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 37, tel. (+31)
135 44 37 81, www.dezevensprong.net. This cheerful

childrens bookshop offers a book crossing zone. The idea
is to pick up a book for free, finish reading it and then put it
down again in a random Book crossing spot somewhere else
in the world. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu
10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Livius B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 56, tel. (+31) 135 43 59
44, www.boekhandellivius.nl. Livius doesnt just offer the
current Top Ten, but also interesting stories about the city
and region and, of course, Tilburg In Your Pocket. QOpen
09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat
09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Selexyz Gianotten C-3, Emmapassage 17, tel. (+31)
134 65 11 11, www.selexyz.nl. This bookshop, which is
one of the largest in Tilburg, has a great selection of books
of all genres. It also hosts a big collection of travel guides and
books about Tilburg. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 18:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:30. Closed Sun. J
Ethnic food & Delicatessens

Slagerij Kees van Hest B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 47-A,
tel. (+31) 135 42 22 16. This is a butchers shop with an

old-fashioned look, but the meat of course is fresh. QOpen
08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Visspeciaalzaak Van Oursouw A-2, Prunusstraat
9, tel. (+31) 134 67 63 84, www.vanoursouw.nl. This
speciality fish shop is located just outside Tilburgs city
centre, but is definitely worth a detour. The friendly owners
will give you a sample of whats fresh and will even make you
a sandwich. QOpen 09:00 - 18.00, Tue 10:00 - 18:00, Sat
09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. PVS
Shopping centres also offer parking for pedestrians
Fashion
Crown Store I-5, Heuvelstraat 137A, www.crownhead-
wearshop.com. Hundreds of hats of all brands in a wide

variety of colours can be found here. If youre looking for a
hat or cap for fun or just to be fashionable, this is the place
to go. Naturally, the place is teeming with skaters, but thanks
to the colourful and hip clothes the place is also packed with
fashionistas. QOpen , Tue, Wed 13:30 - 18:00, Thu 13:30 21:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J
Gimbrre D-3, Heuvelstraat 41, tel. (+31) 135 43
52 50, www.gimbreremode.nl. This is one of the oldest
fashion houses in Tilburg. The founder opened the place in
1836 as an umbrella factory, but it has since expanded to
become a chain of 12 clothing shops. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00,
Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. J
Jan De Cock Mode D-1, NS Plein 45, tel. (+31) 135
42 16 62, www.jandecockmode.nl. Jan De Cock Mode is
an exclusive fashion shop with well-known brands and very
friendly staff. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00,
Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 17:00.
Jimmys C-3, Stadhuisstraat 9, tel. (+31) 135 43 44
86, www.jimmysmode.nl. This enormous clothing shop
may be for people in a higher tax bracket, but its still worth
a peek if only to pretend that you can afford something here.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon, Sun. J
Superfly B-2, Nieuwlandstraat 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 19
66, www.superfly.nl. Big brands like Levis fill the vintage
shelves and cool unknown brands adorn the clothes hangers. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00
- 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Flowers
Bloom! B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 5, tel. (+31) 135 81 21
23, www.bloomflowers.nl. The most beautiful flower shop

in Tilburg is situated in a stunning building. In short, this is a
florist with good taste. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J
t Boeketje C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 178, tel. (+31)
134 56 22 26, www.tboeketje.nl. Even on grey rainy
days this place has a colorful and fragrant feeling. QOpen
09:30 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 20:00, Sat
09.30 - 17.00. Closed Sun. J
Games & Toys

De Dobbelsteen B-3, Schouwburgring 155, tel. (+31)
135 44 37 00, www.dedobbelsteen.com. The owner of

this shop takes the time and effort needed to personally
teach you any game, should this be necessary. QOpen
11:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon, Sun. J
Het Zingende Nijlpaard C-3, Willem II straat 88,
tel. (+31) 135 35 38 29, www.hetzingendenijlpaard.
com. This place only sells nostalgic wooden and tin toys.
Neglected old toys are also patched up by the owner of
the shop, such as spinning tops that have been fabricated
in the same way since 1880. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon
13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. J
Intertoys C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 155, www.intertoys.
nl. One of the largest toy shops in Tilburg is situated in the
cellar of the Pieter Vreedeplein. This shop doesnt place a big
emphasis on modern video games and DVDs, but rather on
real toys. The large collection of Legos is especially impressive. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30
- 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
SHOPPING
SHOPPING
Gifts & Souvenirs
PickAlily B-2, Tuinstraat 106, tel. (+31) 135 35 68 88,
www.pickalily.nl. This lovely knick-knack shop will cheer

you up if only because birds start to sing when anyone walks
through the door. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00,
Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. J
Tijd voor 3 B-3, Langestraat 65, tel. (+31) 137 50 58
89, www.tijdvoor3.nl. Buy functional art and vintage jewellery, CDs, biscuit tins and even antique comics and magazines
in good condition. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00,
Thu 11:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Markets
Besterd Market I-5, Besterdplein. No, it has nothing to
do with the similarly spelled English word. This fabric market at
the Besterdplein is one of the biggest and best such markets
held in the entire region. Vendors also sell fruit, vegetables,
fish and dried goods. Q Open Wed 08:00 - 12:00.
Secondhand shops
Sam Sam B-2, Noordstraat 82, tel. (+31) 135 42 17
08. It has a huge selection of second hand clothes but youll

have to search among the enormous stock available. QOpen
11:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00, Sat
11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Used Before B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 55, tel. (+31) 634
00 29 87, www.usedbefore.nl. Humbled by the economic
crisis or a lover of secondhand stuff? Whatever your reason,
this is a good place to buy a used TV or other household
appliance for a decent price. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu
10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
Vincentshop D-2, Veemarktstraat 37, tel. (+31) 135
42 04 21, www.vincentiustilburg.nl. Come here for used
clothing and furniture for really affordable prices. With a
little luck youll even find an excellent book for around 2. All
proceeds help alleviate poverty in Tilburg. QOpen 10:00 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J
Viva Vintage B-2, Noordstraat 97, tel. (+31) 619
62 88 54, www.vivavintage.nl. This is the most orderly
second-hand shop in Tilburg. It sells ladies clothing and
bags, but also quintessentially Dutch china such as sugar
jars. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon, Tue, Sun. J
Shopping centres
Emmapassage C/D-3, Emmapassage, www.emma-
passage.nl. This is a rather chic, indoor mall with a wide

range of shops and theres always plenty of natural light
provided by the glass ceiling. Among the 22 shops are a very
large bookstore, fashion and shoe shops, travel agencies, a
jewelry boutique and a restaurant. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00,
Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. PTJ6ULGK
Heuvelpoort D-3, Heuvelpoort, www.heuvelpoort.nl. This
shopping centre houses two floors of stores. The ground floor
has 12 shops selling a variety of items, not to mention a hotel
and a restaurant, while the basement offers a gym with a sauna.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00,
Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. TJUFLBKD
Pieter Vreedeplein C/D-2, Pieter Vreedeplein, www.
pietervreedeplein.nl. Pieter Vreedeplein is Tilburgs latest
shopping area. The shops on the square all open their doors
to the public on Sundays, which is quite remarkable in Holland.
Theres also a gym and a cinema on the square. QOpen
09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Sat
09:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. JAULBKW
For big stores visit Pieter Vreedeplein
Speciality shops
De Feestspecialist B-3, Schouwburgring 157, tel.
(+31) 135 43 08 81, www.defeestspecialist.nl. You

can count on this place for any theme party you might want
to throw. Buy festive costumes and strange outfits for any
occasion. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu
10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Russian Market Kalinka Koningsplein 253, tel. (+31)
642 78 74 97. The first and only Russian store in Tilburg
sells the usual items you might expect like caviar and vodka,
but also Russian tea, preserved vegetables, candy and
cookies. Some of the products have English explanations
but others are written in Cyrillic, so when in doubt ask the
staff and make sure that a can of dog food doesnt end up in
your stew. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu
11:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun.
Sigarenspeciaalzaak Havana D-3, Piusplein 4, tel.
(+31) 135 42 54 28. This has been a Valhalla for Tilburgs
tobacco users since 1916. During the Tilburg fair you can
admire a miniature fairground in their shop window. QOpen
08:45 - 18:15, Mon 12:00 - 18:15, Thu 08:45 - 21:00, Sat
09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. PJ
Sweets
De Soete Inval B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 58a, tel. (+31)
135 43 36 71, www.desoeteinval.com. De Soete Inval
sells 700 different kinds of both traditional Dutch and modern sweets. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 20:00, Sat
10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J
Tea & Coffee shops

Kaldi C-2, Willem II straat 68, tel. (+31) 135 35 07
51, www.kaldi.nl. From the plant or bean to the liquid in

your colourful mug, the friendly lady who runs Kaldi knows
all there is to know about coffee and tea. You can also buy a
present for friend or attend a barista workshop here. QOpen
09:30 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun
12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. PJGW
Wine & Liquor shops

T Drinks D-3, Winkelcentrum Heuvelpoort, tel. (+31)
135 80 11 26, www.tilburgdrinkt.nl. This tiny liquor shop

is the only place to go for local specialties like praotwater
beer (talking water), knipoogske (a wink), and Hullie Gullie, a
unique liqour based on the Tilburg fair. The enormous whisky
and beer collections are eyecatchers. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00,
Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. J
Spring/Summer 2013
E43
E44
LIFESTYLE & SPORTS

New in town? Suffering a spontaneous allergy attack,
a broken tooth or a bad hair day? For doctors, dentists,
hairdressers and many more handy addresses read on.
Dance schools
Factorium C-4, Koningsplein 11A, tel. (+31) 135 35 40
55, info@factorium.nl, www.factorium.nl. The Factorium

is a beautiful building with modern facilities where classes,
workshops and lessons are given in the field of performing
arts. Tickle the ivories of a pipe organ, train your baritone
voice, move your hips to capoeira or try your dance skills
Bollywood-style. You can watch all of the action from the
comfort of a beanbag before you decide which course to take.
QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J
Dentists
G.H.M. van der Zand B-2, Spoorlaan 378, tel. (+31)
135 80 18 88. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00, Fri 13:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sat, Sun. J
Doctors
Brands en Taminiau D-3, Heuvelring 138, tel. (+31)
135 42 37 34. Q J
DVD rental
Cinematheek C-2, Willem II straat 6-A, tel. (+31)
135 43 26 79, balietilburg@cinematheek.nl, www.

cinematheek.nl. For those who have trouble choosing, the
Top-100 wall is a great source of inspiration and the staff are
like walking film-encyclopaedias. QOpen 14:00 - 22:30. J
Fitness & Gyms

Health City D-3, Heuvelpoort 380, tel. (+31) 135 32 51
00, www.healthcity.nl. This gym is located in the basement

of the Heuvelpoort shopping centre. At first glance it doesnt
seem that big, but once inside youll quickly come the the
conclusion that its actually a veritable work-out paradise.
Exercising here isnt cheap, but it does have some fringe benefits like a pool and a sauna. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri
07:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 20:00, Sun 09:00 - 18:00. JFD
Kwidam I-5, Cornelis de Vriendtstr 39, tel. (+31) 135 43
98 40, www.kwidam.nl. Only women are allowed to work
out at Kwidam, a gym that specialises in spinning, zumba
and pilates. QOpen 09:00 - 22:00, Sat 09:00 - 12:00.
Closed Sun. GD
PUUR fitness H-5, Artemisstraat 6, tel. (+31) 135 90
01 40, info@puur-fitness.nl, www.puur-fitness.nl. This is
by far the cheapest option for fitness aficionados in Tilburg.
QOpen 08:30 - 22:30, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 16:00. PTFL
Football: Willem II
Date Time Match Venue
Mar
30 12:30 Willem II - FC Groningen W2
Apr
06 20:45 Willem II - PSV W2
20 19:45 Willem II - Roda JC W2
May
12 14:30 Willem II - AZ W2
W2 - Willem II Stadion, I-6, Goirleseweg 34,
www.willem-ii.nl.
Golf
Prise dEau Golfbaan (Golf course Prise dEau) F-6,
Gilzerbaan 400, tel. (+31) 134 62 82 00, fax (+31) 134

62 82 01, receptie@prisedeau-golf.nl, www.prisedeaugolf.nl. This golf course has no fewer than 27 holes. There
are nine holes bordering De Blaak, Tilburgs well-to-do
neighbourhood at the edge of the city, nine holes around
the Leij, the river which runs through it, and nine in Sijsten, a
wooded area. QOpen 08:30 - 21:00, Wed 09:00 - 21:00,
Fri 08:30 - 19:00. HAK
Hairdressers & Barbers

Hardys E-4, Piushaven 1-D, tel. (+31) 135 36 52 00,
info@hardys.nl, www.hardys.nl. Having your hair cut here

might be more expensive than in similar places, but the stunning views of the Tilburg Piushaven from this hip hairdresser
boat are worth the extra cash. Call or make an appointment
on its website. QOpen 08:30 - 19:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00,
Thu 08:30 - 20:00, Sat 08:30 - 16:00. Closed Sun. J
John Beerens Haarstudio H-5, Professor Gimbrrelaan 45, tel. (+31) 134 670 360, info@johnbeerens.
nl, www.johnbeerens.nl. Youve come to the right place
if you want to have your hair cut by a local Dutch celebrity.
John, the bald barber, is one of the most well-known people
in Tilburg. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu
09:00 - 21:00, Fri 08:30 - 21:00, Sat 08:30 - 17:00. Closed
Sun. PA
Hospitals
St. Elisabeth Ziekenhuis (St. Elisabeth Hospital)
J-6, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, tel. (+31) 135 39 13 13,
www.elisabeth.nl. This hospital is the place to go in an
emergency. Q PZTULGK
TweeSteden Ziekenhuis (TweeSteden Hospital)
H-4, Dr. Deelenlaan 5, tel. (+31) 134 65 56 55, fax

(+31) 134 63 01 96, www.tweestedenziekenhuis.nl.
This hospital specialises in many fields of medicine. Q
PZTULK
Karting
De Voltage I-6, Groenstraat 139-391, tel. (+31) 135
Tilburgs cinemas offer the best sound and picture possible
80 00 07, fax (+31) 135 80 00 09, info@devoltage.nl,

www.devoltage.nl. De Voltage was originally a part of the
Volt factory, nowadays it serves as an indoor entertainment
centre where you can have fun go-karting, playing laser tag
or paintball, try a rodeo or sumo wrestling or even play bungee football. QOpen 15:00 - 23:00, Wed 14:00 - 23:00, Fri
15:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. Closed
Mon. THEKW
LIFESTYLE & SPORTS

Libraries
Openbare Bibliotheek Tilburg (Tilburg Public
Library) C-4, Koningsplein 10, tel. (+31) 134 64 85
00, www.bibliotheekmb.nl. The Tilburg Public Library has
two floors of books, DVDs, CDs, videos and computer games
that you can borrow for up to six weeks. You do however
have to become a subscriber, which costs 30 per year. The
large selection of English books and magazines can be very
alluring, especially on rainy days. QOpen 11:00 - 21:00, Sat
11:00 - 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. J
Massage
Pure L C-2, IJzerstraat 15, tel. (+31) 135 42 14 61,
info@pure-l.nl, www.pure-l.nl. This ayurvedic massage

salon has the perfect city centre location when the daily
workload becomes pure stress. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Thu
10:00 - 21:00. Closed Wed, Sun. J
Pharmacies
Mediq Apotheek Julianastaete (Mediq Pharmacy
Julianastaete) D-3, Heuvelring 212, tel. (+31) 135 42
63 52, julianastaete.mediq-apotheek.nl. A centrally located pharmacy with all the medicine and vitamins you might
need. QOpen 08:00 - 17:30. Closed Sat, Sun. PJA
Spas & Beauty

SummerTan C-2, Telegraafstraat 13 - 15, tel. (+31)
135 42 47 09, info@summertan.nl, www.summertan.

nl. You dont need an appointment to take advantage of this
state-of-the-art tanning salon. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00, Sat
10:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:00 - 21:00. (4 - 9). PJG
Thermen Tilburg L-8, Moerse Dreef 10, tel. (+31) 135
71 54 10, info@thermentilburg.nl, www.thermentilburg.
nl. You can let yourself be completely pampered at the largest
and, in our opinion, best wellness centre in town. With facilities
like a Himalayan crystal salt stone cabin, a rose salon and a
light therapy room, you can be sure that relaxing has never
been easier. Your whole body will be rejuvenated in the spa
and the restaurant, which, of course, serves healthy salads.
QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. PUGKD
Sports centres
Dolfijn I-5, Ringbaan Oost 2a, tel. (+31) 135 42 43 80,
www.tilburg-dolfijnbowling.nl. The Dolphin has 10 bowling alleys, but air hockey and billiard enthusiasts can also
have a great time here. Its shop offers all the professional
equipment you could possibly need to bowl a strike and kids
will have the time of their lives at its disco parties where you
can bowl under flashing lights. QOpen 14:00 - 24:00, Sat
12:00 - 01:00, Sun 13:00 - 23:00. GK
Skish Indoor Ski + Squash M-7, Gen. Eisenhowerweg
7, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 135 33 90 88, info@skish.
nl, www.skish.nl. If youve never skiiied before, this is an
ideal way to learn. You can pick up the basics on two small
tracks, each 6m-wide and 10m-long. Due to the large mirrored
wall youll be able to copy the movements of the instructors
quickly and be ready for the real slopes in no time. QOpen
17:00 - 23:00, Wed 10:00 - 23:00, Fri 14:00 - 21:00, Sat
09:00 - 14:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00. Introductory lessons:
18. TJL
Squashcentrum De T (Squash center De T) A-2,
Boomstraat 85, tel. (+31) 135 36 39 39. Youll find this
sports centre with four squash courts along the picturesque
Boomstraat. QOpen 09:45 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 09:45 - 18:00,
Sun 09:45 - 13:00. J
Relax at the Stappegoor swimming pool
Tattoos
Totem Tattoo I-5, Veldhovenring 1, tel. (+31) 135 45
84 42, www.totemtattoo.nl. Bart, Ren and Giovanni

are tattoo artists that are passionate about piecing and
tattoos. QOpen 12:00 - 20:00, Mon 12:00 - 17:00, Sat
11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Useful addresses
De Sleutelmaker I-4, Wagnerplein 65, tel. (+31) 134
56 22 73, www.desleutelmaker.nl. Get your keys made

here. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:30
- 17:00. Closed Sun.
GWK Travelex B-1, Spoorlaan 39, tel. (+31) 900 05 66,
www.travelex.com. This is a handy address to buy or cash
travellers cheques, exchange foreign currency, send and receive money from abroad or purchase calling cards. QOpen
08:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. JA
Lowie Kopie B-3, Schouwburgring 18 - 20, tel. (+31)
135 43 70 31, www.lowiekopie.nl. Printed textiles and
mugs, as well as photocopying and printing. Unfortunately,
its rather pricey if you only want one sheet printed. QOpen
09:15 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. J
Wasknijper I-6, Korvelseweg 132, info@wasknijper.
com, www.wasknijper.com. Six washing machines, four
dryers and a selection of magazines is all you need to get the
laundry done. And 45 minutes of your precious time. QOpen
08:00 - 21:00. J
Was Me Groen ECOstomerij I-6, Broekhovenseweg
73, tel. (+31) 135 43 24 80, info@wasmegroen.nl,
www.wasmegroen.nl. Eco-friendly steam and dry cleaning
services. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu
09:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Vets & Pets

Dierenkliniek Den Herd (Animal Clinic Den Herd)
A-4, Capucijnenstraat 78, tel. (+31) 135 42 02 74,

www.dierenkliniekdenherd.nl. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00,
Sat 09:00 - 12:00. Closed Sun.
Water parks
Swimming pool Stappegoor I-6, Stappegoorweg 1,
tel. (+31) 135 32 59 00, sport@tilburg.nl. The Stappegoor swimming pool is small for a city like Tilburg, but children
want for nothing here with whirlpools, steam cabins and and
the wild rapids slide, which is fun for adults, too. It offers a
pool for competitions, one for recreation and a small outdoor
pool. QOpen 07:00 - 21:30. TGBKC
Spring/Summer 2013
E45
N46
LOON OP ZAND / KAATSHEUVEL

The municipality of Loon consists of the three villages
of Loon op Zand, Kaatsheuvel and De Moer, which have
a combined population of 23,070 people. The town hall
is situated in Kaatsheuvel, but each village has its own
unique character. The oldest of the three is Loon op Zand,
formerly called Venloon. Loon op Zand got its name from
the moor (ven) and forests (loon) that are an integral part
of the area. In 1269 the village was lent to William van
Horne by the Duke of Brabant and became a so-called
heerlijckheid. Because Venloon was located near the
drifting sands of the Loonse en Drunense Duinen, or
dunes, it was later called Venloon op t Sandt and finally
renamed Loon op Zand. The oldest mention of Kaatsheuvel dates from 1506, when it was referred to as Ketshovel.
A canal to transport peat from the surrounding area was
constructed then to develop the already incredibly lucrative peat trade. After the peat was exhausted, Kaatsheuvel became a centre for the footwear and leather industry,
but today its mostly known for its famous theme park,
The Efteling. De Moer was founded in the 14th century and
has never really grown since then. The name of the village
refers to its location on a bog. Moer simply means moor
or boggy land in Dutch.
Arriving in Loon op Zand

Loon op Zand and Kaatsheuvel are located 5 and 11km
north of Tilburg, respectively. If travelling by car simply take
the N261. The villages are easily accessible by direct buses
from Tilburg. Buses No.136 and 300 depart Tilburg Central
Station for Loon op Zand and Kaatsheuvel almost every half
hour. Bus No.300 is an express bus to the Efteling theme
park in Kaatsheuvel. All of the villages are also within cycling
distance and the scenic trip from Tilburg to Kaatsheuvel is
definitely worth the trip.
Sightseeing
Church of St. John the Beheaded M-7, Oranjeplein
1, Loon op Zand, tel. (+31) 416 36 12 15. Built in 1394,

this church was originally designed in Romanesque style,
but around 1400 it was extended with a choir in the Gothic
style. The tower and transept were added in 1450. In the
17th century it served as stables, then as a fire station and,
for a brief amount of time, as a prison, but in 1821 it was
reconsecrated as a Catholic church. Dont forget to take a
look at the crypt in the cemetery that dated from 1898. Over
30 members of the local Verheyen family are buried there.
QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. J
Estate Huis ter Heide M-7, Middelstraat 1, De Moer,
tel. (+31) 135 15 93 45, www.natuurmonumenten.

nl. Between Loon op Zand and De Moer youll find the
650-acre Huis ter Heide estate. The area consists chiefly of
forests and marshes and its home to flora and fauna with
exotic names like the klokjesgentiaan, heikikker and the
vinpootsalamander, not to mention the Scottish Highland
cattle that graze on its fields. Huis ter Heide is a lovely, quiet
oasis of nature only 30 minutes away from the city and easily
accessible by bicycle. Q
Nationaal Park De Loonse en Drunense Duinen
M-7, www.nationaalpark.nl. The dunes in this national

park are unique and not to be found anywhere else in North
Western Europe. Its sands are always moving. At the end of
the 19th century woodlands were planted around the drifting
lands to control this unusual movement. On the south side of
the park lies the De Brand marshland. Although very beautiful
in autumn and winter, the best way to explore the Loonse and
Drunense Dunes is on foot or by bike in spring or summer. Q
Loon op Zand In Your Pocket
The Couwenbergh Windmill M-7, Vaartstraat 102,
Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31) 416 53 02 30, www.restaurantdemolen.nl. This windmill was built in 1849 by Couwenbergh,
a local miller. Unfortunately, the mill was severely damaged
during World War II. In 1994 it was sold and then completely
restored by its new owners, who also converted the neighbouring warehouse building into a restaurant. The mill is still in
use, but only for milling flour to bake bread for the restaurant.
The windmill is accessible via a small entrance from the
restaurant. Take the stairs up three flights for a view of its
inner workings. QOpen 12:00 - 21:30. T
Eating & Drinking

De Heeren van Loon M-7, Kerkstraat 64, Loon op Zand,
tel. (+31) 416 36 50 40, www.eetcafedeheerenvanloon.

nl. For an affordable lunch or dinner in the heart of Loon op Zand,
look no further than this charming place overlooking a church.
A three-course meal wont cost much and youll be welcomed
with genuine hospitality for which the province of Brabant is
so famous. Although not the place for cutting-edge culinary
delights, you can enjoy a good steak, spare ribs or a traditional
ham here. In short, its a good pit stop on your way to the
Loonse en Drunense Duinen or one of the other sightseeing
highlights surrounding the village. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Wed,
Thu 16:30 - 24:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (14 - 18).
De Kiosk M-7, Oranjeplein 20a, Loon op Zand, tel. (+31)
416 36 16 21, www.cafebrasseriedekiosk.nl. Although this

establishment was actually a bandstand years ago, its now
been transformed into a caf/brasserie. Located on a cycling
path heading toward the Loonse en Drunense Duinen, it features a large terrace overlooking the bustling village square. Its
clientele is diverse and it can get very crowded in the summer
months, but in the winter you can sit behind the tall windows or
at the reading table with a hot chocolate or perhaps something
stronger. QOpen 10:30 - 01:00. (12 - 16). PJUEBK
De Lakei L-7, Hoofdstraat 20, tel. (+31) 416 28 21

12, www.restaurantdelakei.nl. The staff bringing the food
to your table arent really lackeys as in centuries past, but
certain characteristics of the manservant can be detected
in this restaurant including a luxurious atmosphere, refined
culinary delights and a proper wine cellar. The hostess is also
a sommelier, so shell be able to help the inexperienced wine
drinker with any questions they might have. QOpen 17:00
- 24:00. Closed Tue, Wed. ( 35 - 70). PJHAGKW
Where to stay
Hotel de Kroon M-7, Gasthuisstraat 140, Kaatsheuvel,
tel. (+31) 416 27 35 67, www.hotelkaatsheuvel.nl. This

somewhat old-fashioned hotel looks a little outdated at first,
but the service is top notch. Free parking is available and the
people at the reception desk are friendly. Although this familyoriented hotel looks a bit like a 1970s housing estate, its kids
corner and close proximity to the Efteling amusement park
make it a good option if youre travelling with children. A proper
breakfast is included in the price of a room, so its good value
for money for a short stay. Q 14 rooms (3 singles, 2 doubles,
5 triples, 4 quadruples 71 - 128). PTJAUGKX
Recreatiepark Het Genieten L-7, Roestelbergseweg

3, tel. (+31) 416 56 15 75, www.hetgenieten.nl. You
can either camp at Het Genieten or stay in one of its mobile
homes on site. The small houses with blue curtains and tidy
lawns exude old-fashioned cleanliness and propriety, but if
youre looking for a completely different experience, you can
stay in a circus truck with an old-fashioned box bed. Q From
210 per week. TBKW
E48
STREET REGISTER
Dutch words and phrases
Useful phrases
How are you? Hoe gaat het met je?
Pleased to meet you Leuk kennis met je te maken.
Do you speak English? Spreek je Engels?
Where is the nearest shop, hotel, restaurant, caf, bar
or toilet?
Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde winkel, hotel, restaurant, caf,
bar of toilet?
Whats your name? Hoe heet je?
My name is Ik heet ...
What time is it?
Hoe laat is het?
How much? Hoe veel kost dit?
This costs too much! Dit is veel te duur!
Greetings
Hello
Hallo
Hi
Hoi
Good morning
Goedemorgen
Good evening
Goedenavond
Goodnight (greeting) Goedenacht
Goodnight (sleeping) Welterusten
Goodbye (Dutch) Tot ziens
Bye (Dutch) Dag
Bye (in Tilburg) Halleee!
Yes Ja
No Nee
Maybe Misschien
Cheers! (as a toast) Proost!
All the best! Het beste!
Thank you Dank je wel
Days of the week

Monday Maandag
Tuesday Dinsdag
Wednesday Woensdag
Thursday Donderdag
Friday Vrijdag
Saturday Zaterdag
Sunday Zondag
Numbers
1 een 2 twee
3 drie 4 vier
5 vijf 6 zes
7 zeven 8 acht
9 negen 10 tien
11 elf 20 twintig
21 eenentwintig 50 vijftig
100 honderd 1000 duizend
Street smarts
Street straat
Road weg
Lane laan
Highway snelweg
Boulevard boulevard
Square plein
Market markt
Airport vliegveld
Bus station
busstation
Train station treinstation
Taxi taxi
Old town street register

Aartestraat, Jan
D3
Acaciastraat A1
Akkerstraat A3
Alexanderstraat C3
Annahof, Sint
A4
Annaplein, Sint
A4
Annastraat, Sint
A4
Antoniusstraat B2
Atelierstraat C1
Barkstraat D4
Besterdring D1
Bleshof B3
Bodehof C2
Boomstraat A2
Bouwmeesterplein,
Louis B4
Brabantlaan, Hart van
A1
Bredaseweg A3
Brokxlaan,
Burgemeester A1
Burgerijpad A2
Buxusplaats A1
Capucijnenstraat A4
Catamaranstraat E4
Cavaleriestraat D3
Clercxstraat D4
Damsstraat D3
Dionysiusstraat A2
Dondersstraat,
Professor=3 E2
Dunantstraat E2
Elzenhof A2
Elzenstraat A2
Emmapassage C3
Emmastraat D3
Enschotsestraat E1
Esdoornstraat=4 A2
Fabriekstraat A2
Fleminghof E3
Flemingstraat E3
Fraterstraat A1
Galeipad D4
Galjoenhof E4
Galjoenstraat E4
Gardiaanhof A4
Gasthuisring A1
Girostraat C3
Goudenregenstraat E1
Harmoniepark B2
Helga Deentuin
C2
Hendrikhof C3
Heuvel D2
Heuvel, Achter de E2
Heuvelpoort=1 D3
Heuvelring D2
Heuvelstraat B3
Hoogvensestraat E3
Huzarenstraat E3
IJzerstraat C2
Jasmijnstraat E1
Jolstraat E4
Josephstraat, Sint E3
Kapelhof B3
Karrestraat C2
Kazernehof E3
Kerkpad C3
Klipperplein D4
Kloosterstraat B4
Koestraat D1
Koggeplein E4
Koningsplein C4
Koopvaardijstraat D4
Korte Schijfstraat A2
Korte Tuinstraat
B3
Korvelseweg A4
Kotterstraat E4
Kurassiersstraat E3
Laagstraat A2
Lanciersstraat E3
Landsteinerstraat E2
Lange Schijfstraat A4
Langestraat B2
Leliestraat E1
Lochtstraat A1
Madeliefstraat E1
Magazijnstraat C2
Mariastraat B3
Mattheushof, Frater A4
Mauritshof D4
Monumentstraat C3
Nazarethstraat A4
Nieuwlandstraat B3
Noordhoekring A3
Noordstraat A2
Ns-Plein D1
Oranjestraat D3
Ordonnansenstraat E3
Oudedijk B4
Oude Markt
B3
Paleisring D3
Pasteurhof E2
Pasteurstraat E2
Paulownahof, Anna C4
Paulussehof, Frater B3
Piushaven E4
Piusplein D3
Piusstraat D4
Poststraat B2
Rankenstraat B3
Roemerhof B3
Romboutshof, Frater A3
Rozenplein E1
Rozenstraat E1
Salkplantsoen E2
Schoenerstraat E4
Schoolstraat A3
Schouwburgpromenade
B4
Schouwburgring B3
Sebastiaanstraat, Sint
D4
Seringenhof E1
Sonstraat, Van
A4
Sophiastraat C3
Spoorlaan B1
Stadhuisplein C3
Stadhuisstraat C3
Stadstraat C4
Stationsstraat B2
Stolbergstraat, Juliana
van D3
Telefoonstraat C3
Telegraafstraat C2
Telexstraat C2
Tivolistraat E2
Tjalkstraat D4
Trouwlaan A4
Tuinstraat B2
Tulpstraat=5 E1
Utrechtsestraat A2
Veemarktstraat D2
Vincentiuspad B3
Vincentiusstraat A3
Vorstenhof D4
Vreedepad, Pieter C2
Vreedeplein, Pieter C2
Vreedestraat, Pieter C3
Vrouweplein, Lieve A4
Wagenstraat D1
Wilgenstraat A3
Willem II Straat
C3
Willemsplein C4
Wingerdhoek B3
Zomerstraat B4
Zuid-Oosterstraat E1
Zwaanstraat D3
Zwijsenplein C4
Zwijsenstraat, Bisschop
C4
OLD TOWN MAP
E49
NETHERLANDS MAP
Spring/Summer 2013
N52

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Hotels Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps

Discover Loon op Zand,

See what lies north of

A few words from the editor

How to get to your hotel

Getting to grips with Tilburg

The citys past on two pages

Culture & Events E10

The municipality of Loon consists of the three villages of

Museums, churches and other sights

Trains, buses and taxis

List of small features

Maps & Index

Dont be content with what the city centre of Tilburg has to

Old town street register

In Your Pocket Netherlands

Tilburg In Your Pocket

The World of In Your Pocket

Its almost 21 years since we published the first

90 02 02 08 15, vvv@tilburg.nl, www.vvvtilburg.

Message from the Mayor

Tilburg In Your Pocket

Street Art: smokers and other creatures outside 013

709 - First mention of Tilburg

1387 - Lord of Tilburg

1570 - The Tilburg Fair

Tilburg has a lot of history to explore

Tilburg In Your Pocket

King Louis Napoleon visits

1809 - Petrus Donders is born

On 7 October King Willem II

1927 - Tilburg University

1827 - The first steam engine arrives

On 8 July 1944, Coba Pulskens,

Pieter van Dooren uses

The Roman Catholic Trade Academy is founded. The school

1944 - Resistance by Coba Pulskens

1992 - Museum De Pont is opened

One of Tilburgs numerous war memorials

The De Pont centre for modern art is opened in a former

CULTURE & EVENTS

13 79, www.cinecitta.nl. This cinema shows films of

44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95

More culture and events at

NuMetal gods KORN will perform their mix of metal and

Rock, folk, jazz & More

CULTURE & EVENTS

Rock, folk, jazz & More

20:00 Hard rock. Witchcraft & Orchid.

Textile Museum I-5, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31) 135

American guitar legend Joe Satriani will perform on June 5

36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. The Textile Museum

CULTURE & EVENTS

Experience Pinkpop, the largest rock festival in the

Tilburg In Your Pocket

Fado singer Cristina Branco will perform her moving

cafebolle.nl. In 2011 this place was named one of the best

Special events venues

in an English landscape style as a job creation project prior

CULTURE & EVENTS

Pinkpop rock and pop festival.

Tilburg Beer Festival. Enjoy

Rock Werchter. Belgiums biggest

Celebrated in July, the Tilburg Kermis or fun fair is the