Last Updated on March 8, 2026
When visiting Woerden in The Netherlands, a trip to the Cheese Warehouse (Kaaspakhuis) is an absolute must do. This charming town offers a unique peek into the world of traditional Dutch cheese-making. Even myself as a Dutchie, learned a lot of new things about cheese! Besides, Woerden is a much quieter town than Gouda or Zaandam to learn about cheese. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit to the Cheese Warehouse in Woerden.
Table of contents
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
The historical significance of the cheese warehouse in Woerden
Woerden, located in the Groene Hart (Green Heart) region of The Netherlands, is a charming town with a rich history dating back to Roman times. Woerden is especially famous for its cheese-making heritage, hosting a traditional cheese market and the historic Cheese Warehouse. The town’s picturesque canals, vibrant cultural festivals, and proximity to major cities like Utrecht, Amsterdam and Rotterdam make it a great destination if you love history and/or cheese.
Over the centuries, Woerden evolved from a strategic military site to a bustling market town where farmers from the surrounding regions brought their cheese to sell. The cheese production dates back to the Middle Ages!
The Cheese Warehouse itself is an impressive piece of industrial heritage. Built in the early 20th century, next to the river, it served as a storage and maturation facility for cheese produced in the region. The location next to the river is historically and practically advantageous for several reasons: the river facilitated efficient transportation and offered natural cooling before refrigeration. The cheeses were too heavy to carry and were rolled directly from the boats, via the quay, to the warehouse. This way, they were damaged as little as possible.
Today, 5 cheese traders still store their cheeses in the warehouse. There is room for 5,000 cheeses!
Tip: Woerden is also known for its impressive fortifications, including the well-preserved Woerden Castle, built in the late Middle Ages.
What to expect during your visit?
1. Guided tour and cheese tasting
The Cheese Warehouse features a guided tour that take you through each step of cheese production, from milk to maturation. I booked the tour through the cheese warehouse’s official website.
First, our group was welcomed by two guides who gave a brief explanation of what to expect. Then, a video about cheese was played, and the guides provided more information about the history of Woerden, the role of the cheese warehouse, the cheese-making process, and the different types of cheese that exist. We learned the differences between farmer’s cheese and factory cheese, pasteurized milk and non-pasteurized milk, the ingredients of cheese, and the ripening process. After the explanation, we all went upstairs to the cheese warehouse. Here, we saw hundreds of cheeses! Very cool! Afterwards, we went back downstairs and enjoyed a cheese board with a drink. I had port!
2. Craft your own cheese
Ever wanted to learn how to make cheese yourself? You can join the “Craft Your Own Cheese” workshop and learn the secrets of cheese making. Under the guidance of an expert cheesemaker, you will get hands-on experience in cheese making. The workshop involves active participation in the cheesemaking process, along with informative discussions about cheese making. Remember to make a reservation in advance.
3. The cheese shop
No visit to the Cheese Warehouse would be complete without stopping by the on-site cheese shop in the VVV Office (Tourist Information). Here, you can purchase some small local cheeses to take home. Additionally, you can find other Dutch delicacies and souvenirs to remember your trip by.
Useful tips for visiting the cheese warehouse
1. Plan your visit ahead
The Cheese Warehouse can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist season. It’s advisable to book your tour in advance to ensure you get a spot. Check the official website for opening hours and tour schedules. Reserve your activity on a Wednesday or Saturday (in August) to combine your visit with a visit to the (Cheese) Market in Woerden.
2. Dress comfortably
The guided-tour involves walking and climbing a steep staircase, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The warehouse can be cool, so consider bringing a light jacket.
3. Bring a camera
The Cheese Warehouse is full of picturesque spots, from the charming old building to the colorful wheels of cheese. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the memories.
4. Try local delicacies
While in Woerden, take the opportunity to explore other local culinary delights. Visit nearby cafes and restaurants to sample traditional Dutch dishes and fresh produce from the region.
5. Learn some basic Dutch phrases
While most people in The Netherlands speak English and the guided tour is given in English and/or Dutch, learning a few basic Dutch phrases can enhance your experience. Simple greetings and polite expressions go a long way.
Contact information
Kaaspakhuis Woerden
Emmakade 6a
3441 AJ Woerden
Phone: 0348 – 74 54 92
Email: info@vvvwoerden.nl
Website: https://kaaspakhuiswoerden.nl/en/
Every wednesday: Woerden’s cheese market
Every Wednesday morning between 8am and 12.30pm, the Kerkplein in Woerden is home to a market with more than 50 stalls. There is something for everyone: from cheese and chicken to fabrics and socks. Free admission.
Cheese summer weeks in Woerden
In summer, Woerden is all about the Cheese Summer Weeks. An absolute must visit! Every Saturday from mid-April to mid-August, there are activities at the authentic cheese market from 11am to 12.30pm. This market is also located at the Kerkplein in Woerden. Traders and self-cheese farmers meet to trade. This trade may seem like a play, but it’s real. Woerden has the only truly functioning trade market in the Netherlands. The market was established in 1885 and has proved its right to exist.
Next to this, you can taste cheese, see how cheese is made and being transported by horse-drawn carts, enjoy performances by local musicians and dancers and of course, buy cheese. It’s a lively celebration of Woerden’s cheese-making heritage.
Conclusion
Visiting the Cheese Warehouse in Woerden offers a fun and educational experience, perfect for anyone interested in Dutch cheese-making traditions. This charming town, less crowded than Gouda or Zaandam, provides a unique insight into cheese production, from historical methods to modern practices. The Cheese Warehouse, built next to the river for practical reasons, continues to store thousands of cheeses and hosts engaging tours and activities. With its rich history, vibrant cheese market, and cultural festivals, I believe that Woerden is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cheese lovers alike. Plan your visit, enjoy the local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the authentic Dutch cheese-making culture.
If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!
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