North East in Utrecht

Reviewed by: Editorial Staff Rating:

You can go skating, take a refreshing walk, or go for a spin on a bicycle in the Griftpark or the Voorveldsepolder. There are also city walks, organized by volunteers or ‘t Gilde. The Utrecht Records Office opens a door on the past and the theatrical performances held in the Paardenkathedraal (Theatre Company), located on the former Veeartsenijterrein (the domain of the veterinary surgeons), are often the talk of the town.

GRIFTPARK
The Griftpark is open daily. The park is an oasis of tranquility and greenery in the middle of a busy built-up area. There are a number of different features to enjoy. Its green heart of plants, trees and flowers and the embankment along the Biltsche Grift are perfect spots for a short walk. The pond and water bowl are the ideal place to enjoy a quiet moment. Or if you are feeling more active, you can jump across the stepping stones at the water cascade. Many young skaters are drawn by the color and beauty of this natural skating landscape.

CULTURE
An authentic theater district is starting to take shape at the end of the Biltstraat. The faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Utrecht was housed here up to the eighties. When the faculty moved to the Uithof, the stables were converted to residences. Dirk Tanghe directs sensational theatrical performances in the old riding arena of the Paardenkathedraal. The youth theatre group, De Berenkuil, has found a home in the former Pathologisch Instituut (Pathology Institute) of the faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

THE CITY'S MEMORY
The Utrecht Records Office is the city's and province's memory. Anybody can research the past of Utrecht province, its cities and villages and their inhabitants. There are regular courses and workshops. In the workshop on tracing the history of buildings for example, you can learn how to investigate the history of your own home.

CITY WALKS
´t Gilde is an organization open to people of fifty years of age or older, who, on voluntary basis and for no personal gain, are ready to pass on their knowledge and experience to all those, young and old, who are interested in learning more about Utrecht. ´t Gilde regularly organizes theme walks, some of which are held in Utrecht Noordoost. Additionally, walking tours can be organized upon special request, with foreign language commentary if required.

RECREATION
The Voorveldsepolder, on the eastern side of the district, offers numerous recreational activities for nature lovers. You can go camping here, there are two riding stables, a jogging track and a variety of children's' playgrounds, including a play area with a water theme.

Category: Attractions