Brugmann Park

Brugmann Park is one of the most picturesque green spaces in the municipality of Uccle (Ukkel), in the Brussels-Capital Region. Covering roughly 5 hectares, it stands out for its hilly terrain, with steep slopes connecting the upper and lower sections of the park — an unusual feature compared to the mostly flat urban greenery elsewhere in Brussels.

Where does the park's name come from?

The land once belonged to the Brugmann family, and the park is named after Georges Brugmann (1829–1900), a Brussels banker and philanthropist. Brugmann played a significant role in the urbanization of what were then still rural municipalities — Uccle, Forest and Ixelles. At his own expense, he laid out and funded the construction of several streets in the northern part of Uccle, including Avenue Churchill, Messidor, Albert and Avenue Brugmann, and he also financially supported the Verrewinkel convalescent home. After his death, his heirs donated the remaining beech forest to the municipality of Uccle with the intention of turning it into a public park — which is how today's Brugmann Park came to be.

What can visitors see in the park?

The park's biggest draw is its mature woodland: centuries-old beech trees and very old plane trees still standing from the days when the site was the Brugmann family's private forest. The pronounced changes in elevation give a walk through the park real variety, moving between open clearings and shadier, wilder patches of woodland. The park also offers benches for resting, a children's playground, and a sports circuit that loops around the grounds, popular with runners and anyone looking to exercise outdoors.

Who is this park for?

Brugmann Park combines recreational value with genuine natural character. Its old trees and the relatively untouched feel of the beech forest attract visitors looking for a nature escape close to the heart of the Brussels agglomeration. At the same time, the sports infrastructure and playground make it a popular spot for families with children and Uccle residents out for a jog or a walk. The hilly terrain can also be a welcome challenge for runners looking for an urban route with some real elevation gain.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Brugmann Park? The park covers approximately 5 hectares.

Where does the park's name come from? From Georges Brugmann, a Brussels banker and philanthropist whose family owned the land before his heirs donated it to the municipality of Uccle.

What is there to see in the park? Mainly its mature trees — old beeches and plane trees — along with varied terrain featuring steep slopes between the park's upper and lower sections.

Is there anything for children? Yes, the park has a playground, plus a sports circuit that's also useful for older kids and adults.

Which municipality is the park located in? The park is located in Uccle (Dutch: Ukkel), in the Brussels-Capital Region.