MUSEUM VAN KLEEF
HELP PRESERVE LIQUID HERITAGE
The last jenever and liqueur house in The Hague, Van Kleef, has been a household name since 1842 where history is tangible and flavours tell stories.
Despite the museum collection belonging to the municipality until 2024 (now owned by the landlord, Stadsherstel), Van Kleef has been covering the maintenance costs of this heritage since 2000 through the sale of its drinks and tastings.
However, accessibility issues, a €50 parking fee, financial setbacks from COVID, the energy crisis, and slow permit procedures have made it impossible for us to continue funding the maintenance.
There is now a light at the end of the tunnel: plans are ready to create a jenever museum that offers a platform to the 20 distilleries The Hague once proudly hosted.
Starting May 17, 2025, we are launching a crowdfunding campaign to begin small renovations and keep the museum open during this transition. We’d love to toast with you to a bright future in and with the city of The Hague!
More information about the crowdfunding.
THE HISTORY OF STEAMDISTILLERY
VAN KLEEF 'T ANKER
In the heart of The Hague’s historic centre, you'll discover the hidden treasure of Van Kleef. Founded in 1842, we are the sole surviving jenever and liqueur distillery that continues to operate to this day. We showcase a wide and enticing selection of local liquors and liqueurs, each one based on a traditional recipe.
In 1842, Lambertus Theodorus van Kleef established a distillery of fine liqueurs and bitters, which later became known as the Stoomdistilleerderij 1e klasse Van Kleef v/h ’t Anker.
An extensive range of distilled alcoholic beverages were produced, imported and sold in the adjacent liquor store, whilst the distillery also exported a number of its products. Van Kleef became the last distillery in The Hague to close his doors in 1986.
In 1995, Van Kleef reopened after an extensive renovation. It is now a museum, liquor shop, wholesale business and the perfect setting for meetings, parties and receptions. Step inside and immerse yourself in the craftsmanship, quality and history of our traditional, local company.
You can also combine your visit with a tour through the Van Kleef Museum. Free tours (on paper) are available in Dutch, English, German and French. During the tour you’ll learn about how The Hague was once an important distillery city in the Netherlands. You’ll see the distilling equipment including authentic ‘drankorgels’ (racks where the liqueurs and spirits were kept) and copper stills. Many of our liquors and liqueurs can also be sampled.
Guided tours and tastings are offered on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. More information about the tasting sessions can be found here.
Opening hours museum and shop
Tuesday - Saturday from 10:00 until 18:00 h
Sunday from 13:00 until 18:00 h.
Van Kleef tasting & guided tour
Friday (minimum 10 guests) at 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00
Saturday at 12:00 and 14:00
Sunday at 14:00 h.
Cocktail tasting & guided tour
Saturday at 16:00
Sunday at 16:00