Parc de la Tourelle

Parc de la Tourelle is a compact but characterful public park in Verviers, tucked into the Heusy district between Rue du Parc and Rue Herla. Covering roughly 1.6 hectares, it blends a green space for everyday relaxation with the remnants of a 19th-century private estate. Locals use it for walks and their children for play, while a piece of the town's history quietly stands at its edge.

Where does the park's name come from?

The name refers to a small tower (French: tourelle) built in 1851. It was commissioned by Jacques-François Hanlet de Seroule, the first mayor of Heusy, on his own extensive property, with the design credited to architect Charles Thirion. The tower became the defining landmark of the estate, and over time the surrounding grounds were transformed into the public park that exists today.

What is there to see in the park now?

Modern-day Parc de la Tourelle is primarily a recreational space: open lawns, walking paths, play areas, and shaded spots to sit beneath mature trees. The general layout still echoes the original 19th-century estate design, even though the site's purpose has shifted entirely — from a private residence to a shared green space serving the surrounding neighborhood.

What is happening with the historic tower?

In recent years, the tower has become the subject of local debate. A private real-estate company took on its restoration, while also proposing to add an annex intended for food-service and cultural use — a project that would nearly double the building's usable surface. Some residents and local groups support renovating the tower itself but oppose the planned extension, arguing that it would require cutting down trees and removing parking spaces currently used by park visitors.

How to get there and what to know before visiting?

The park sits at Rue du Parc 29 in Verviers, right next to the Centre Hospitalier Peltzer-La Tourelle, which is why the site is sometimes associated with the hospital itself. Being located in Heusy makes it easy to reach both for residents of that part of town and for anyone visiting the nearby hospital. Given its modest size, a visit doesn't take long, but the park works well as a short stop for a break while exploring Verviers and its surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

Is the park fenced or does it require a ticket? No — it is an open, freely accessible public space that can be visited at any time of day without charge.

Is there a playground for children? Yes, the park includes a play area designed for younger visitors.

Can visitors go inside the tower? The tower is currently undergoing restoration by a private developer, so access to its interior may be limited or temporarily unavailable.

How long does it take to see the whole park? Given its compact size (about 1.6 hectares), a full walk through the park typically takes between 20 and 40 minutes.

Are there other attractions nearby in Verviers? Yes, the park borders the Peltzer-La Tourelle hospital site, and the historic center of Verviers is within easy reach, making it simple to combine a visit here with further sightseeing in the city.