De Oude Kaasmakerij

De Oude Kaasmakerij is a cheese-making museum located in Passendale, a village within the municipality of Zonnebeke in the West Flanders province of Belgium. The museum occupies a former cheese and butter factory, once known as the St. Joseph Cheese and Butter Factory and later as the Passchendaele Cheese Factory, offering visitors a rare, hands-on window into interwar-era dairy craftsmanship.

What is the visiting experience like?

Stepping inside feels like traveling back to the year 1936. The exhibition walks visitors through the entire journey of cheesemaking, starting with milk collected from farms in the surrounding countryside and ending with the finished product ready for the table. Original equipment and tools used by cheesemakers of that era are on display, giving a tangible sense of how the craft has evolved over the decades.

Can visitors make their own cheese?

Yes, and it's one of the main draws of the museum. On scheduled occasions, guests can join a workshop and produce their own cheese under the guidance of experienced staff. This hands-on activity brings the craft to life in a way that a static exhibit alone cannot. After the tour, the on-site brasserie offers a chance to taste several cheeses made in the region.

When is the museum open?

De Oude Kaasmakerij operates seasonally, from February 1 through October 31, daily from 10:00 to 18:00. Individual visitors can simply arrive during these hours without booking ahead. Groups, however, can arrange visits outside the regular opening hours, provided they reserve in advance.

What else can you combine with a visit?

The surrounding area invites a longer stay. A common pairing is a meal or tasting session at the on-site brasserie, while families often round out the day with a game of mini golf nearby. As a result, a stop in Passendale can easily grow from a quick detour into a full day out.

Who is this museum best suited for?

The museum appeals both to those curious about the region's agricultural and industrial heritage and to families looking for an interactive outing. The cheesemaking workshop is particularly engaging for children, while the historical displays and the recreated 1930s atmosphere will resonate with visitors interested in traditional craftsmanship.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book tickets in advance? Individual visitors can arrive during opening hours without a reservation. Groups visiting outside standard hours need to book ahead.

Is the museum open year-round? No, it operates seasonally, from February 1 to October 31.

Can I buy cheese on site? A visit can be paired with a tasting at the museum's brasserie, which serves cheeses made in the region.

Is this a good option for families with children? Yes, the hands-on cheesemaking workshop and the nearby mini golf option make it a family-friendly stop.