A noble life cannot exist without staff. Around 1900, it was only natural for noble families to employ servants. Anyone who counted for even a little bit had at least two "maids." Although much of the staff was brought over especially for the September residence from their other homes and country estates, there were also regulars who worked year-round at the Dutch castle.

Upstairs & downstairs
At De Haar, there were downstairs (kitchen, basement) and upstairs (bell floor). Downstairs the staff cooked, ate, played games and could see on a bell-board who had "schemed." Upstairs, elite life played out. The life of the family and its guests. The staff's sleeping quarters were on the third floor.

The staff did not have it bad at De Haar and certainly much better than other Dutch elite. All staff bedrooms had central (steam) heating, iron cribs and functional furniture and even running water. Extraordinarily comfortable for the time. The baron was also proud to have arranged things so well for his staff.

With the exclusive guided tour 'In service of the nobility' you will visit the third floor, along sneak routes of the staff, the linen room and other rooms that normally remain closed to visitors. Discover all about the life of the staff at De Haar.

Visitor information

'In service of the nobility' can be booked daily from January 5 until March 31, 2026 with your castle visit for € 5.00 per person extra. Duration: 45 to 60 minutes. When booking tickets, choose 'Castle visit with guided tour'. The tour is in Dutch, for non-native speakers an English handout is available. Due to the many stairs, the tour is unfortunately not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

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