Stadspark

Stadspark is a city park in Lier, in the Belgian province of Antwerp, located just south of the town's historic centre. The park borders two rivers, the Nete and the Grote Nete, and is crossed by a smaller stream, the Binnennete, which gives the whole area a distinctly green and watery character.

How did the park come to be?

The ground the park now occupies has a surprisingly varied past. Near where the Timmermans-Opsomer house stands today, there used to be a pleasure garden complete with buildings, greenhouses, a garden, a bleaching field for linen, and hay meadows. It looked nothing like the tidy public park visitors find there now.

That changed between 1917 and 1919, when the city purchased the land specifically to establish a public park, which officially opened in 1919. Interestingly, the site had an earlier chapter too: back in 1910, Jesuit monks from the nearby Patersklooster laid out a cloister garden on the grounds, designed as a walking park with paths following a cross-shaped layout. Over time this early walking park fell into neglect and grew into an overgrown patch of woodland before the city eventually turned it into the organized green space that exists today.

What is there to see and do?

The modern Stadspark sits along the line of the former city ramparts (the vests) and Netelaan street. It combines recreational amenities with genuine botanical interest, since the park is known for a wide variety of tree species. Alongside native trees, visitors can find several exotic specimens, including the tree of heaven, the water cypress (bald cypress), and the horse chestnut, making a walk through the park worthwhile for anyone curious about trees.

Beyond its greenery, the park also offers plenty for a family outing. There is a small pond, a children's playground, a mini-golf course, and tennis courts. Anyone in need of a break can stop at the Koffiehuisje, a small cafeteria located within the park grounds.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Stadspark located? The park lies just south of Lier's historic city centre, in the province of Antwerp, along the former city ramparts and Netelaan street. It is bordered by the Nete and Grote Nete rivers and crossed by the Binnennete stream.

When was the park established? The land was purchased for the park between 1917 and 1919, with the official opening taking place in 1919. An earlier walking-park layout on the same site dates back to 1910, created by Jesuit monks from the neighbouring monastery.

What can visitors do besides walking? There is a playground, a mini-golf course, tennis courts, and a small cafeteria called the Koffiehuisje where visitors can rest after a walk through the grounds.

Is the park interesting for nature lovers? Yes — the park is notable for its wide range of tree species, including exotic ones such as the tree of heaven and the water cypress alongside native trees, making it a rewarding spot for a nature walk in any season.