Bij de Barones at the Coach House is the perfect spot for visitors to Heeswijk Castle to enjoy coffee, lunch, or a drink in a beautiful historic setting. Now that the days are getting shorter, we’re making the Coach House warm and cozy again with our High Tea package, where you’ll be immersed in the history and traditions of the Barones through delicious bites, tea, and a beautiful setting.
A Royal High Tea Experience
The High Tea package at Heeswijk Castle is available for booking from November 1 through March 31. Enjoy two hours of sweet and savory delights in the castle’s Coach House. High Tea begins with a “Bij de Barones Special”: a delicious drink and a soup made right here at the castle. This is followed by a tiered stand featuring sweet and savory treats, served with a cozy pot of tea. Of course, a Brabant sausage roll is a must at the Castle of Brabant. Combined with a tour of the castle, it’s the perfect recipe for an autumn outing.
The High Tea with castle tour is available Tuesday through Sunday.
Starts at 12:00 PM, ends at 2:00 PM
High Tea + castle admission €36.50 per person
Children under 12: €14.50; €21.50 including castle tour
Baroness Albertine's maid
Back in time… a high tea at the castle wouldn’t be complete without the historical stories about tea time with Baroness Albertine. These anecdotes add a unique and personal touch to the High Tea. Take, for example, the story of Annie, one of Baroness Albertine’s maids: “When I still lived at home on a tenant farm near the castle, I worked for Baroness Albertine for 8 years (1957–1965). I was a maid and came there every day. One day, I was even allowed to let (Princess) Beatrix in. Fortunately, I didn’t have to say a word, and she gave me a friendly nod. I brought the tea in on a large silver tray and set it down in front of the Baroness, who liked to pour her own tea. When the weather was nice, the Baroness often sat outside. Then I would walk with my large tray from the kitchenette outside, down the steps, and all the way to the back of the garden. And then the Baroness might say, “Annie, would you bring another pitcher of hot water?” “I sure did walk a lot back then!”
The Baroness's Tradition
High Tea at Heeswijk Castle is more than just delicious treats. It reflects the hospitality that Baroness Albertine herself extended to her guests. An anecdote tells the story of a lady who came for tea at the Baroness’s for the first time. “Would you like a cookie or a piece of honey cake?” the Baroness asked. Well, the woman had never had honey cake before, so that sounded appealing to her. Eventually, a maid arrived with the tea, and with it, not a pastry, but a simple slice of gingerbread. But don’t worry—the Baroness’s menu now certainly features a delicious honey-nut cake.
A Tea Party
As if that weren’t enough, Heeswijk Castle offers a High Tea experience that is as unique as the castle’s history itself. The following story is also characteristic; it takes you back in time once again. The story is about a gentleman and his fellow students who wrote a paper on the castle. As a thank-you, they were invited to a “tea banquet,” also known as a “thé banquet.” The students had agreed beforehand not to eat too much. At half past two, they arrived at the castle and were indeed treated to a cup of tea and, yes, the now-iconic slice of gingerbread. The atmosphere was very formal, but that’s just how things were back then.
Book your Sweet & Delightful High Tea
Want to enjoy a cup of tea, sweet treats, and good company in a beautiful setting? Whether you’re out for the day or visiting with family and friends, High Tea at De Barones in the Koetshuis is the perfect outing. Book your royal treat and let yourself be enchanted by the unique combination of history and hospitality that Heeswijk Castle has to offer.