Tilburg InYourPocket 2015/2016

Maps Events Restaurants Cafés Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels

Tilburg April 2015 - March 2016

Vincents Tekenlokaal See where Vincent van Gogh learned his craft

Tilburg’s Fair

The biggest fun fair in the Benelux Region inyourpocket.com N°08 - FREE COPY

TRACE VINCENT VAN GOGH’S FOOTSTEPS IN TILBURG History and the newest technology merge together in Vincent’s Art Room! The young Van Gogh attended school in this former palace of King Willliam II. Witness how he received his first serious drawing lessons in a reconstruction of this classroom and get to work at once in the digital

Tilburg

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Stadhuisplein 128

of inspi r ars

io at

Vincents Tekenlokaal

125 y e

art room.

Opening hours: Tuesdays - Sundays 13.00 - 16.00 hrs

www.vincentstekenlokaal.nl

Contents Shopping

Foreword

Leisure & Lifestyle 40 Spas, doctors, laundries and other useful information 4

A few words from the editor

Arrival & Getting Around

5 8 10

Tilburg’s past on two pages

Culture & Events 12 Concerts, festivals and events

Restaurants

18

The Dutch have much more than cheese to offer

Cafés

26

Classic cafés and high tea

Nightlife

28

Bars, pubs and clubs

Sightseeing Museums, churches and other sights

42

Loon op Zand & Kaatsheuvel

46

Discover natural beauty and three historic towns

Getting to grips with Tilburg

History

Hotels Beds for backpackers, familes and business execs

How to get to your hotel

Tilburg Basics

38

Boutiques, souvenir shops and shopping centres

E S S E N TI A L C I TY G U I D E S

32

List of small features Mayor’s message The Spoorzone Festival Mundial Tilburg Fair Best local beers Monumental streets King William II Tilburg for kids Following Van Gogh

Maps & Index Old town street register Venue index Old town map Tilburg map Greater Tilburg map Netherlands map

5 9 19 23 31 35 37 41 48 48 48 49 50 51 52

The Tilburg Fair

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April 2015 - March 2016

3

Foreword Ever since we published our very first publication in 2011 we realised how incredibly lucky we are to work in the vibrant city of Tilburg. Thousands of local and international students ensure an exciting atmosphere full of hope and promise and these creative youngsters also guarantee that the city is never short on nightlife or interesting festivals. If you need convincing just take a look at our Culture & Events or Nightlife chapters. For those of you who aren’t particularly keen on crowded events, this guide offers plenty of other unknown treasures to discover. For starters, the green parks in and around Tilburg are perfect locations for an unhurried picnic or a lazy stroll. Whatever you decide, we’re 100% convinced that Tilburg In Your Pocket, which contains the latest and most accurate information, will be the perfect companion to one of Holland’s most intriguing cities. And – as always – we welcome any suggestions, rants, remarks or complaints at tilburg@inyourpocket.com. Enjoy Tilburg with this essential city guide in your pocket.

Publisher E S S E N TI A L © In Your Pocket Netherlands C I TY G U I D E S Weikesstraat 21, 5335 LE Alem, The Netherlands ISSN 2211-2553 Company Office & Accounts Tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46, tilburg@inyourpocket.com, www.inyourpocket.com Tilburg In Your Pocket is printed by Microdot in the EU Editorial Editorial team Theo Leerintveld & Martins Zaprauskis Contributors Frank van Bergen & Dirk van den Assem Research Theo Leerintveld, Bob Oostelbos & Frank van Bergen Layout & Design Martins Zaprauskis Photography Theo Leerintveld, Jeroen Vos, Gemeente Tilburg, various concert organisers Cover Jeroen Vos

COVER STORY

Sales & Circulation Advertising Esther van Loon, tel. (+31) 13 545 32 98, e.vanloon@asega.nl Distribution Theo Leerintveld & ASEGA Media, tel. (+31) 135 453 298

Visit the place where the 19thcentury Dutch master received lessons when he was only 13 years old and follow in his illustrious footsteps. Get to know Van Gogh in the former palace of King William II of the Netherlands as seen on this issue’s cover. Children can learn to draw on a computer or, like the painters of yesteryear, on paper. Will you become the next Vincent van Gogh?

Copyright notice Text and photos copyright In Your Pocket Netherlands. Maps copyright cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Bernardinu 9-4, Vilnius, Lithuania tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76).

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4 Tilburg In Your Pocket

Not content with publishing more than 100 guides to cities across three continents, In Your Pocket is currently carrying out a new round of expansion for 2015. New cities due to be pocketed include Eindhoven in the Netherlands, while some old favourites, such as Budapest in Hungary and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad will be getting a reboot. And there is a brand new digital platform to look forward to: we will rolling out the new inyourpocket.com throughout April and May. In order to make sure you keep up with all that’s new at In Your Pocket, like us on Facebook (facebook.com/inyourpocket) or follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/ inyourpocket). tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Arriving & Getting Around These days it’s easy to reach Tilburg. The central station borders the city centre, while the smaller train stations give access to the suburbs. On the motorways ‘Tilburg’ is also regularly indicated on road signs. From the two airports (Schiphol and Eindhoven) it takes an hour and a half or an hour respectively to reach Tilburg by train. The public transport system is fairly clear and well organised, however, many people prefer to walk to the city centre.

BY CAR Tilburg can be easily reached via motorway A58 or other provincial roads. In and around the city centre there are seven indoor car parks; along the roads into the centre electronic signs will show you the right direction and free spaces available. You pay when you exit the car park again.

For drivers with physical limitations there are disabled parking spaces available at the indoor car parks at Koningsplein, Tivoli and Pieter Vreedeplein. On many streets in the city centre, and at the outdoor car parks, you’ll find ticket machines. Pay in advance and place the ticket on the dashboard in a visible place. The indoor parking options are cheaper.

BY PLANE If you arrive at either Schiphol or Eindhoven airport Tilburg is only an hour away by public transport. A single trip from Schiphol by train costs about €15, and from Eindhoven Airport the bus followed by the train will cost you about €10.

Both routes will take just over an hour of travelling and you’ll arrive at the Tilburg Central Station. Check www.9292ov.nl for more information on schedules and prices. The bus and train journey from Eindhoven Airport to Tilburg costs about €9. A single train ticket from Schiphol costs €17 and the journey takes about an hour and a half. Be aware that when you travel from Schiphol to Tilburg, you will have to change onto the train to Venlo in Rotterdam, within 10 minutes of your arrival. From the central station in Eindhoven you take the train that is headed for Den Haag (The Hague). Find more information at journeyplanner.9292.nl.

TOURIST INFORMATION VVV TILBURG Right next door from the ‘Natuurmuseum Brabant’ is the VVV-office of Tilburg. You can buy typical Tilburg souvenirs here such as the leesplengske (horn book), real Kruikenstad items and Willem II products. Everything you’ll need to know about the city is also available here and the friendly staff will do everything they can to inform you about what to see and do in Tilburg.

In the back of the room you can even email your own picture in a postcard of Tilburg to your friends and loved ones.QB-2, Spoorlaan 434a, tel. (+31) 135 32 37 20, www.vvvtilburg.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Mon 13:00 - 17:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J facebook.com/inyourpocket

MAYOR’S MESSAGE Tilburg is vibrant, enterprising, full of initiatives. Pleasant to reside and live in. Rural and worldly at the same time, a place where small villages have strung together into a green city. A city that is more than worth visiting.

In this Tilburg In Your Pocket guide you will find the most important places and attractions of Tilburg. When you browse through this guide, you will discover that the atmosphere of Tilburg is young, quirky, and slightly diverse, because we are a real student city, with Tilburg University and six art schools right in the centre of the city. Students are trained there as dancers, rock musicians, even as musical stars. The various theatres and venues like 013 offer them the opportunity to showcase their talents to a large audience.

So if you are looking for a cultural night out, Tilburg is the place to be.

The city of course has much more to offer. An extensive range of shops, with surprising shops in the Wander Area. Internationally renowned museums, such as De Pont museum of contemporary art. Also wander around the Railway Zone, the old train station area full of industrial buildings where trains were once serviced. These buildings now act as a skate park or events hall for example. And, of course, Tilburg has, like any other large city, numerous terraces, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

Tilburg is also distinguished by a packed events calendar. During the event season the centre of Tilburg is everybody’s living room. You encounter each other at the Gypsy Festival, Tilburg Ten Miles, Incubate, or Roadburn. And of course in the summer also at Festival Mundial or at the Tilburg Fair.

So in short, with the Tilburg In Your Pocket guide in hand, you have made the first step towards an unforgettable time in Tilburg.

Peter Noordanus Mayor of Tilburg

Enter Tilburg by boat and experience its lively harbour

April 2015 - March 2016

5

Arriving & Getting Around BIKES

TAXIS

The city has a substantial network of cycle paths, known as the star net-route or the ‘red cycle paths’, which criss-cross their way through the city. The network enables students (and their professors!) to cycle to the university quickly and safely. You can rent a bicycle at the central station at Fietspoint Derks for €7.50/day. The bicycles have handbrakes and gears which allows you to decide how hard you want to pedal. Taking a bike on the train cost you for the whole day €6. In Tilburg you can reach almost anywhere by bicycle. This is why the local town council has built many large bicycle parks where you can park your bike safely. The city has five free guarded indoor bicycle ‘parks’: Heuvel, Concertzaal, Katterug, Pieter Vreedeplein and Stappegoor.

Ordering a taxi by phone will get you better service and lower rates for longer distances. The following companies are among the most reliable of the bunch.

PUBLIC TRASPORTATION

TRAINS

The old town is so small, that you can easily get everywhere you need to go on foot. Travelling to farther destinations by bus or train requires an OV-chipkaart.

An OV-chipkaart is required to use the entire public transport system in The Netherlands. The smart card is the size of a bank card and contains an invisible chip.

The OV-chipkaart can be loaded with credit in euros with which you can travel anywhere within the country, or with another travel product such as a single or season ticket.

You can also choose a personal, anonymous or disposable card. The personal OV-chipkaart can be purchased online or from the city public transport company. The anonymous OV-chipkaart can be bought at the ticket office and vending machines at the station. The disposable card can be purchased at the station vending machine. This card allows the holder to travel immediately, but it can’t be re-charged with another than the original travel product. You have to load travel credits onto the OV-chipkaart or it won’t be valid for travel. You can add travel products to your card at the station vending machine or at your public transport company’s ticket office. You can load travel credit onto your card using your bank card and PIN code at a vending machine or at a ticket office. If you have a personal OV-chipkaart, you can also select the auto-reload option, to ensure you always have enough OV-chipkaart credit with which to travel. Orders from the webshop have to be loaded on the OV-chipkaart at a pick-up device.

You have to check in at the gate of the tram or bus by holding your OV-chipkaart up to the screen. The sound and light signal indicates your card has been read. If you do not have a specific product on your card and, therefore, pay for your journey using the OV-chipkaart e-purse, a boarding rate will be deducted when you check in. The credit on your OV-chipkaart should be enough to cover the boarding rate or you won’t be allowed to go through the gate.

The boarding rate is €4. At that end of your journey, you check out by holding your card up to the gate screen. The sound and light signal once again indicate that your card has been read. Checking in and out is required when you transfer from any one form of transport to another, except when you transfer from one train to another.

Tilburg has three train stations: Central station, Tilburg Universiteit, and Tilburg Reeshof. The central station, with its three tracks, is a dwarf compared to the train stations in Utrecht, ‘s-Hertogenbosch and Amsterdam. The front of the train station faces right onto the city centre, and to get to where you want to be, all you need to do is cross the street and turn left or walk straight on.

For waiting travellers there are two kiosks, a shop with coffee and cakes, a bookshop and a Sushi restaurant within the station. Outside you will also find a kebab place and a tiny supermarket. You can purchase train tickets at the service desk in the hall or at one of the ticket dispensers. Do note that the ticket dispensers do not always accept foreigner bank cards, so make sure you have plenty of coins with you to operate them. Close to the entrance you can change foreigner currencies into Euros and vice versa.Tilburg Universiteit and Tilburg Reeshof can only be reached by ‘stoptrein’ (a train which stops at all small stations). Tilburg Universiteit is a small way station with three tracks and is located close to Tilburg University. Which also explains the presence of large groups of young people with a thirst for knowledge.

Tilburg Reeshof has two tracks and connects to the most westerly part of Tilburg, the new estate called Reeshof.

6 Tilburg In Your Pocket

ALGEMENE TAXI SERVICE (GENERAL TAXI SERVICE) Qtel. (+31) 135 42 08 00.

FIETSTAXI TILBURG (BIKE TAXI TILBURG) Qtel. (+31) 640 19 83 59, www.fietstaxitilburg.nl.

TAXI BARON Qtel. (+31) 135 32 18 38, www.taxibaron.nl.

TAXI REESHOF Qtel. (+31) 138 50 11 11, www.taxireeshof.nl.

There’s lots to discover in Tilburg, so take your time

tilburg.inyourpocket.com

LEARNING

BY DOING. AVANS UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES: BRIMMING WITH TALENT Avans University of Applied Sciences has 54 higher professional education study programmes, 28,000 students and 2,400 staff members. For a number of years, Avans has been one of the top three universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands with sites in Breda, ‘s-Hertogenbosch and Tilburg. We set the bar high. Also for ourselves.

A FOCUS ON THE INDIVIDUAL: Students and staff are our key priorities.

Nobody is a number.

AMBITION: Avans challenges you. To develop your talents and to push your boundaries.

AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY: Avans actively forges relationships with its surroundings. We carry out research for companies, institutions and authorities.

In the Brabant region and further afield.

avans.nl

Tilburg Basics Read on and find out why the Dutch allow people to smoke joints, but not to operate a bicycle while intoxicated. Plenty of other funny facts about the Netherlands are available here.

ALCOHOL ‘Tilburg has many cafés and restaurants so you’re never far from a glass of wine or a pint of beer. Heineken, Grolsch and the Belgian Jupiler are the three most popular beers on offer at most places in the inner city. Other tasty brews include Brand, Bavaria, Hertog Jan and Amstel. Beer is served everywhere, but you must be able to prove that you’re at least 16 years old (to drink beer or wine) or 18 for spirits. If you look too young you’ll be carded, so always bring identification. This holds true for supermarkets and off-licences, too.

CYCLING Being one of the smaller countries in the world and as flat as a pancake, makes this country attractive for cyclists.

Add to that an unbelievable amount of criss-crossed cycle paths, and you know why the Dutch love cycling so much.

Although cycling in the bigger cities can be - thanks to lots of traffic- equal to a premature death certificate, we recommend that you cycle as much as possible. Yes, even in the rain. It seems like all foreigners stop simultaneously when there is only a few drops falling from the sky. So, if you’re up before happy hour and feel like doing something healthy for your body for a change, rent a bike and discover Tilburg.

DRUGS It comes as no surprise that in many places in the Netherlands you’re allowed to buy and smoke marijuana and other soft drugs. And you may have also heard that dealing or possessing hard drugs is forbidden. You can be arrested for it and punishments are no laughing matter. Soft drugs are sold exclusively at so-called coffeeshops so don’t buy them on the streets. These products are often uninspected and may be adulterated with unknown rubbish. Again, dealing is forbidden. Stay wise and limit yourself to the coffeeshops and get high responsibly.

Tilburg has a striking modern train station

8 Tilburg In Your Pocket

LANGUAGE Dutch is an Indo-European Germanic language that is mostly spoken in the Netherlands, Flanders and Suriname (South America). It is closely connected to the Low German dialects which by now have largely been flooded by official German. These dialects managed to keep a number of proto-Germanic characteristics, and for this reason, Dutch as a language is a living fossil. It represents a group of important dialects that were spoken by the founders of the Frankish Empire and the Saxons. The latter group were the founders of the English language as it is spoken today, hence AngloSaxons. Afrikaans, as it is spoken in South Africa, is descended from the 17th-century version of modern Dutch. To the dismay of language purists, many English words have been integrated into Dutch. Moreover, many youth are responsible for a shift in the language. This is not something recent: in the first half of the 19th century, students already started thinking up their own words, which became widely used.

Most Dutch have a more than fairly healthy command of the English language. Many will also be adept at other European languages with German being the most commonly spoken. Mastering the Dutch language can be a terrifying ordeal, but learning a few key phrases will make things easier and may even win you friends and admirers.

LOCAL TIME From 28 March to 31 October, the Netherlands is in the Central European Summer Time Zone, or GMT+2. The rest of the year the clock ticks according to the Central European Time Zone, or GMT+1.

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS On public holidays shops and museums often close earlier and some stay closed the whole day. Schools, city councils, post offices and banks are closed and some shops and restaurants may also take the day off.

January 1 April 3, 2015 April 5, 2015 April 6, 2015 April 27, 2015 May 1

May 4

May 5 May 10 May 14 May 24 - 25 June 21 June 27 September 15 December 5 December 25 - 26 December 31

New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag) Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag) Easter Sunday (Pasen)

Easter Monday (Pasen) King’s Day (Koningsdag) Labour Day (Dag van de Arbeid) Remembrance of the Dead (Nationale Herdenking) Liberation Day (Dag van de Vrijheid) Mother’s Day (Moederdag) Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag) Whitsun (Pinksteren) Father’s Day (Vaderdag) Veterans’ Day (Veteranendag) Budget Day (Prinsjesdag) St. Nicolas (Sinterklaas) Christmas (Kerstmis) New Year’s Eve (Oudejaarsdag) tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Tilburg Basics MONEY Since 2002, a large part of the European Union has adopted the euro as its local currency and the Netherlands is no exception. One euro contains 100 eurocents. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 eurocents, and also of 1 and 2 euro.

Banknotes are available with the following values: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500. Although a collection of €200 and €500 bills in your wallet might make you feel like Bill Gates or some Russian tycoon bear in mind that they’re almost never accepted in shops or restaurants.

POST The Dutch postal system works more or less infallibly. Letters and parcels are sent without ado across the whole world. At post offices and post agencies (store-in-store, for example at supermarkets) you can buy stamps and drop off parcels. In the old days any Dutch street would be incomplete without the orange or red TNT post-boxes, but nowadays you have to look for one. You can drop off your postcards in the slit labelled overige postcodes (other postcodes). Posting a letter or a postcard within the Netherlands will cost you €0.50, within Europe €0.85 and for the rest of the world you pay €0.95. For parcel shipping prices and the most up-to-date postage rates check www.tntpost.nl.

ROADS Despite the excellent state of Dutch roads traffic quite frequently jams at a large number of bottlenecks. The majority of Dutch drivers never break the speed limit, and considering the severity of traffic fines, this seems wise enough.

Driving through a red light? This will cost you €160. Driving too fast within city limits? Be prepared to pay €180! And as soon as you exceed the maximum speed by 50km/h you’ll lose your driving licence and be fined. Just a few rules: within city limits you must drive 50km/h, outside city limits 80 and on motorways 100 or 120 (check the road signs!).

In the Netherlands you must drive on the right side of the road, and you are not allowed to cycle on motorways!

THE SPOORZONE The Spoorzone (Railway Zone) is an ever-developing area next to Tilburg’s railway lines, which measures a whopping 75 hectares spread out over 3km. It’s located between the East and West Ring Roads and can be easily spotted by some local landmarks, namely the residential Westpoint tower and the Interpolis headquarters.

For Tilburg this is a great opportunity to improve its city centre and to increase the city’s economic significance by creating a hub for knowledge and innovation with a combination of educational institutes, entrepreneurs and private citizens. The area includes space for living, working and going out. In the heart of the Spoorzone you’ll also find the old NS (Dutch Railways) Workroom, where generations of Tilburgers used to maintain locomotives and trains. Events, entrepreneurial spirit and innovation are given space to flourish amidst all this industrial heritage and modern architecture. And this isn’t just a plan on some drawing board, it’s already happening!

Entertaining activities, including art exhibitions, parties and concerts, are organised on a regular basis in the historic and magnificent Koepelhal. Another highlight of the renewed Spoorzone is the Hall of Fame. This space was established by young Tilburgers in order to bring together the town’s youth subcultures, so they might inspire one another. It moved to its current location in the Spoorzone a few years ago and includes a spectacular skate park called Ladybird as well as rehearsal rooms and a stage. Needless to say, the Hall of Fame is a valuable addition to the Spoorzone.

The brand new area has also attracted bigger events. After 25 years at Leypark, Festival Mundial moved to the Spoorzone in 2013. This means Mundial is once again an intimate and accessible festival full of promising talent from all over the world. In short, this vibrant, contemporary area is definitely worth a visit!

For more information visit www.spoorzone013.nl

SMOKING Since the introduction of a ban on smoking in public places on 1 July 2008, smoking has become a lot less common in Holland. Today you can have a wild night out and come home without your hair and your clothes reeking of cigarette smoke. Smokers now have to banish themselves to the many smokers’ rooms throughout the country and thanks to unclear rules you may suddenly find yourself in a pub where there are people smoking. This is usually in pubs with just a single staff member: the boss. Or you may find yourself in a pub that flouts the ban on smoking. This will not have any consequences for you: if you light a cigarette in a pub and the manager tolerates this, then the manager will receive a fine upon inspection. Next to cigarette smoke, the Netherlands is of course also known for its wafts of marijuana. For more information see ‘Drugs’. facebook.com/inyourpocket

April 2015 - March 2016

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History Tilburg’s long history stretches back to the 8th century.

709 - FIRST MENTION OF TILBURG On May 21, 709 priest Vigilius in ‘Tilliburgis’ makes a certificate on which the nobleman Aengilbertus donates a farm to the Utrecht bishop Willibrord. Tilliburgis is probably the name for a number of settlements.

1232 - FIRST MENTION OF THE CHURCH Duke Henry I of Brabant grants patronage rights of the Church of (West) Tilburg at the Abbey of Tongerlo. When the first church was built in Tilburg is unclear, but it was located on the site of the present Heikese Church.

1387 - LORD OF TILBURG Knight Paul of Haestrecht, High Sheriff of ‘s-Hertogenbosch, is willing to provide Joanna, Duchess of Brabant, a loan. She names the villages of Tilburg, Drunen and Goirle as collateral and Paul Haestrecht becomes Lord of Tilburg.

1453 - A PRIVATE ALDERMAN Philip the Good of Burgundy and the Duke of Brabant grants Paul Haestrecht the power to annually appoint the seven town aldermen and to regulate the law in its villages of Tilburg and Goirle.

1500 - THE TEXTILE INDUSTRY IS BORN Tilburg is comprised of a number of villages including Goirle, Heike, Hill, Hasselt and Heikant where many sheep are kept on the vast moors surrounding the villages. The large amount of wool that they supply is ideal for the development of the textile industry in Tilburg and many residents find work as shearers, spinners or weavers. Tilburg evolves into the most important textile centre in the Netherlands over the coming centuries.

10 Tilburg In Your Pocket

1570 - THE TILBURG FAIR The first written mention of a fair held in Tilburg in August as part of a custody account. In 1575 King Philip II grants Tilburg permission to hold three annual fairs. The fair in Tilburg now attracts over 1 million visitors each year.

1746 - PAINTER GÉRARD VAN SPAENDONCK IS BORN The son of the late Mayor of Tilburg trains as a painter under Guillaume-Jacques Herreyns in Antwerp. In 1769 he moves to Paris where he becomes famous as a painter of flowers.

1809 - TILBURG BECOMES A CITY By royal decree, on April 18, 1809, King Louis Napoleon grants Tilburg its city rights. According to an earlier census Tilburg has just 9,465 inhabitants.

1809 - PETRUS DONDERS IS BORN Peter Donders is born on October 27 in Tilburg. Peerke, as he is called by Tilburgers, studies to become a priest before leaving for Suriname in 1842. There he becomes a priest of a leper colony. After his death in 1887 several miraculous cures were ascribed to him and his birthplace turns into a pilgrimage site. In 2009 the Peerke Donders Pavilion, Museum of Charity, opened in Tilburg.

1827 - THE FIRST STEAM ENGINE IN TILBURG Pieter van Dooren installs the first Verviers steam engine in his wool mill that was founded in 1825.

Fearing the loss of their jobs, Tilburg textile workers protest. tilburg.inyourpocket.com

History 1840 - CORONATION OF KING WILLIAM II King William II comes to power on October 7. This Orange family member prefers living in Tilburg because, as he said, ‘Here I breathe fully’. In 1847 he orders the construction of a palace that will serve as his retreat. King William II died in Tilburg on March 17, 1849.

SPORT IN THE 19TH AND 20TH CENTURIES From the mid-19th century many shooting associations and skittle clubs are founded. In the 20th century cycling and football become prominent sports. After the war football (titles for Willem II in 1916, 1952 and 1955) and later ice hockey become popular. The Tilburg Ten Miles which began in 1988 has grown each year and is now a major international event.

1886 - VINCENT VAN GOGH At the age of 13 Vincent van Gogh is sent to Tilburg to attend the state higher secondary school, in the former palace of King William II. He receives his first drawing lessons from September 1866 to March 1868.

1927 - TILBURG UNIVERSITY IS FOUNDED The Roman Catholic Trade High School, as it was known then, is founded and run by 28 economists. Since 1963 a number of new faculties are added including the faculties of Law, Theology and Language.

20TH CENTURY - TEXTILES, RAIL, VOLT AND GROWTH Tilburg was traditionally a wool town where small weavers evolved into dozens of textile mills, of which Aabe was perhaps the best known. The Railway workshops and the Volt (1909) are also large employers in the city.

The traditional wool industry was abandoned in the 1960s and 1970s. In the 20th century Tilburg experiences a major rise in population growing from 40,000 to 140,000 residents in only half a century. Substantial expansion of the city in the west and north and urban expansion in the ‘old’ city created extra living and working places in the 1950s. In 1967, the population peaked at 150,000 inhabitants and then began to stagnate. Tilburg eventually grew to 200,000 people by 2006. facebook.com/inyourpocket

1940 - 1945 - WORLD WAR II The German occupation begins on May 12, 1940. Life is initially ‘normal’ until a number of incidents and atrocities are committed. The city suffered the most in 1944.

On October 27 (the birthday of city saint Peerke Donders) Tilburg was liberated by the Scots.

1944 - RESISTANCE OF COBA PULSKENS Coba Pulskens harbours five Allied pilots. The Germans discover the two of the pilots when their car is stopped by soldiers and the other three (Canadian, British and Australian pilots) are killed. Coba is arrested and dies in the Ravensbrück concentration camp in February 1945.

1992 - THE OPENING OF MUSEUM DE PONT The museum of National and International Art opens in 1992 in a former wool mill. It’s named after the lawyer and businessman JH De Pont (1915 - 1987) whose will stipulates the creation of a foundation to stimulate contemporary art. De Pont is one of the most visited art museums in South Holland.

2015 - RAILWAY ZONE AND PIUSHAVEN In the 21st century the areas on the edge of city centre are booming. The Railway Zone, the former railway workshops north of the new station, is redeveloped and revitalised. The neglected Piushaven (1923) is also successfully restored. Apartments, recreation facilities and small-scale workshops become common here.

April 2015 - March 2016

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Culture & Events When the Dutch think of Tilburg and events, the annual Tilburgse Kermis (Fair) immediately comes to mind and as far as culture is concerned the city has a lot to offer. A great theatre and one of the Netherlands’ better concert halls are both available in Tilburg. Any true music fan would be happy to pay a visit to 013, which has gained worldwide recognition as the venue for the Roadburn Festival. Check venue websites for more musicals, theatre and concerts.

Tilburg’s various art academies and associations are also a major driving force behind the cultural life of the city.

And its actually the only city in the Netherlands that has six vocational art academies. This diversity produces a wide variety or performances, concerts and events.

CINEMAS CINECITTA After a long rebuilding this theatre looks better than ever. In a beautiful building in the middle of the city you can enjoy movie gems from all over the world. Thanks to the extensive renovations, the theatre now offers a ristobar. It’s a gorgeous building where old and new design complete each other in a beautiful way. Enjoy a snack, a drink and quality cinema.QC-2, Willem II Straat 29, tel. (+31) 859 02 29 76, www.cinecitta. nl. Open 13:00 - 22:00, Sun 10:30 - 22:00. JG EUROSCOOP This massive Belgian cinema offers 12 screening rooms and a wide variety of popular current films including some in 3D. Tickets are also a euro cheaper here than at places in the city.QI-6, Olympiaplein 2, tel. (+31) 135 81 28 20, www.euroscoop.nl. Open 14:00 - 24:30. TG PATHÉ This cinema boasts seven theatres with a total of 1400 seats. Although virtually every type of film is shown here, it’s a cinema that seems to attract mainly younger people, a fact that’s also reflected in the selection of films. The big theatres are equipped with excellent sound systems and digital projectors and some movies are also shown in IMAX and 3D.QC-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 174, tel. (+31) 900 14 58, www.pathe.nl. Open 13:00 - 24:00. PJUG

VENUES 013 013 CC City Centre CZ Concertzaal DP De Pont HP Heuvelplein IT Interpolis Tuin LP Leypark NB Natuurmuseum Brabant NWE De NWE Vorst PA Paradox PP Piusplein SB Schouwburg (Theaters Tilburg) SZ Spoorzone TM Audax Textiel Museum

12 Tilburg In Your Pocket

MUSIC & EVENTS Apr

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Hardstyle. Go hard or go home! B2S presents 'Remember'! Tatanka, D-Block & S-te-fan and many more.

Prices from €20 Soul. Bo Saris is a former 'Idol' star who turned into a soul legend Dance. Student Sounds managed to get a very special headliner: Ummet Ozcan! €9 Jazz. The last concert evening from this VJAZZ season. Time to enjoy some live jazz and video art! €15 Metal. Wait, we can't hear you! Neurotic Deathfest is the biggest extreme metal festival in Europe

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Jazz. Tineke Postma and her saxophone are the 20:30 best of the best in the world of jazz. €10 Country. 'Blauwgras' trans20:30 lates bluegrass hits into catchy Dutch songs Folk. Andy Irvine is a famous singer and bouzouki player from the even 15:00 more famous Irish folk bands Planxty and Patrick Street. €8

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Pick your favourite movie snack at Pathé!

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All you need to know about student life in Tilburg WWW.STUDENTCITYTILBURG.COM

Culture & Events MUSIC & EVENTS June 9

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Hartslagcafé' with Maarten van Rossem.

Europe will come alive this evening!

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Kamelot, with their only show in The Netherlands.

19:30 Symphonic metal concert. €28 Dutch folk music. De Dijk and their charismatic 20:30 lead singer Huub van der Lubbe. €26.50

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Destine. Dutch pop / punk band from Tilburg! €12.95 Caro Emerald from Amsterdam. Check her out 19:00 before she truly breaks out. €32.50 20:00

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CONCERT HALLS 013 From Cypress Hill and Robbie Williams to Editors and Moby, the biggest names in pop and alternative music have all played at 013, which is named after the area code of Tilburg. This famous music club draws crowds from all over the Netherlands.QD-2, Veemarktstraat 44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95 00, www.013. nl. Open 07:30 - 02:30, Thu, Fri, Sat 07:30 - 04:30.

JEGX PARADOX Tilburg has a long tradition of Jazz music, but even though several of its pioneers were born here, these days it’s still a genre which is only regularly heard at a place like Paradox. Established long ago by Tilburg Jazz musicians as a place where all artists could play, it still serves that function today. In other words, the perfect venue for jazz.QC-2, Telegraafstraat 62, www.paradoxtilburg.nl.

JEGX

EXHIBITIONS DE PONT De Pont combines the history of Tilburg with contemporary art. It offers both temporary and permanent exhibitions.QI-5, Tjeuke Timmermansstraat 4, tel. (+31) 135 43 83 00, www.depont.nl. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. 14 Tilburg In Your Pocket

Tilburg offers the greatest fair in the Benelux Region. Photo courtesy of PVEnews

CLASSICAL & OPERA Apr Date Time Event Venue Classical. Philharmonic of 2 20:30 the South. Harmony on SB Copper. Prices from €17.75 Classical. Fine Arts Quartet 9 20:00 & Cristina Ortiz. Music SB from the ´Souvenir´ series Classical. Dutch Trumpet Ensemble ´De Hemel´ 24 20:30 SB with Bart Moeyaert. Prices from €22 Classical. Kings concert: 27 20:00 music from the 'Souvenir' SB series May 22

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Classical. Philharmonic of 20:30 the South. Flirting with Mozart Opera. Opera South 20:15 performs Rossini's La Cenerentola. Prices from €21 Classical. Euregio Orches14:30 tra performs Mahler's II. Prices from €17.50

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Culture & Events NATUURMUSEUM BRABANT The magnificent building of the Brabant Museum of Nature is home to thousands of beautiful stuffed animals, fossils, plants and insects. In addition, the museum has permanent and temporary exhibitions and a very creative way marketing them.QB-2, Spoorlaan 434, tel. (+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant.nl.

Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. TJAGK TEXTIELMUSEUM The Textile Museum offers insight into the rich textile history of Tilburg. It is housed in a 19th century building and the collection is divided into 4 sections: textile science, design, industrial culture and arts.QI-5, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31) 135 36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.

GALLERIES LUYCKS GALLERY This gallery represents several national and international artists and its exhibits change nearly every month.QB3, Nieuwlandstraat 31, tel. (+31) 135 43 49 46, www. luycksgallery.com. Open 12:30 - 17:30. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. Wordt ook geopend op afspraak.

LIVE MUSIC BOLLE In 2011 this place was named one of the best pubs in the Netherlands. The stage at the back is frequently occupied by live bands and you might just stumble upon a fairly famous group, even on a weekday.QD-3, Piusplein 8, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 90, www.cafebolle.nl. Open 10:00 - 04:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00. (€9 - 14). TJEGBKX CENAKEL After a thorough renovation in 1998, the former monastery chapel of the Cenakel has become a popular venue for concerts and exhibitions.QJ-6, Cenakel 1, tel. (+31) 135 81 13 67, www.cenakel.nl.

BALLET, DANCE & THEATRE Apr Date Time Event Venue Concert. BLØF, 'in het mid1 20:15 den van alles'. €28 at www. SB theaterstilburg.nl Comedy. Huub Stapel: 2 20:15 SB MV2. Prices from €19.50 Comedy. 'De Troupe van 3 20:15 Joep'. Farmer Wants a BetSB ter Wife. Prices from €15 Musical. 'Heerlijkheid 4 20:15 duurt het langst'. Tickets SB from €25 Dance. 'DansBrabant'.

18 19:00 Studio trade by Aisling NWE O'Coineen Cabaret. Marc Marie 18 20:15 Huijbrechts performs SB 'Florissant'. €27 Tilburg Smiles. Open mic 30 20:30 NWE comedy night May 7 9

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Dance. Introdance, MODERNlive from €14 Cabaret. Jandino Asporaat 20:15 performs 'Hoe Dan Ook'. €19 Classical. Grigory Sokolov on the piano. Music from 20:00 the ´Souvenir´ series.

Tickets from €35 Theatre. Tilburg Tigers, 20:00 Welcome To The Jungle 20:15

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Concert: Nick and Simon 20:15 with their show 'Herinneringen!'

Musical. Ellen ten Damme, 20:15 ´Thuis bij Ellen´. Tickets from €16.50 Comedy and music: ´Vanavond komt Visscher 20:30 zingen´ with the famous comedian Bert Visscher and his orchestra Tilburg Fashion. Straight 20:15 from De Rooi Pannen, Fontys and ROC Tilburg

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The Dutch love their beer. Taste some at the annual Beer Festival

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April 2015 - March 2016

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Culture & Events FESTIVALS & EVENTS Apr Date Event So you love hardrock? Let us introduce you to the Roadburn 9 - 12 Festival. Line-up: Brimstone, Focus and Junius. More info at www. roadburn.com

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Fancy a little party? 'Kindergarten' is thé electronic festival you need to be, especially if you love good dance- en housemusic.

Beautiful people, nice atmosphere and good musicians is what you'll find at the International Gypsy Festival at the Interpolistuin. Open Fri 17:00 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 14:00 01:00, Mon 14:00 - 22:00 The 'Hap Stap' festival where you'll feel at home while you're out.

Great food and live music at the Interpolistuin. Open from 14:00. www.hapstap.nl

Best Kept Secret is a great festival held near Tilburg

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Want to learn more about real Dutch classics? Sing with the locals at 'Festival van het Levenslied'.

6-7 Free admission. More info at www. festivalvanhetlevenslied.nl. Open Sat 20:00 - 01:00, Sun 14:00 - 21:00 Best Kept Secret Festival. Line-up: 19 The Tallest Man on Earth, First Aid 21 Kid and many more

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Festival Mundial will take place at the Spoorzone. Line-up: Kraantje Pappie, The Sexican and Dub Inc. Tickets at www.festivalmundial.nl True beer lovers can sample hundreds of brews at the Tilburgs Bierfestival which begins at 13:00. www.tilburgsbierfestival.nl

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WooHah! A big hip-hop party with guests like Cypress Hill. €39 Back 2 The 90s in the Leijpark!

Liten to Scooter and DJ Paul Elstak among others. Open 13:00 - 23:30 The Full Moon Festival at the Muzentuin! More info and tickets at www.fullmoonfestivaltilburg.nl The 'Tilburgse Kermis' is Holland's best fun fair and this year it promises to be even bigger! www. tilburgsekermis.nl

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Theater De NWE Vorst is an impressive building worth visiting

16 Tilburg In Your Pocket

Tilburg Ten Miles. One of the Netherlands’ biggest running events. www.tilburgtenmiles.nl Incubate Festival. Dancing, music, film and art from black metal to jazz. More info at www.incubate. org. Open 13:00 - 23:30 European Social Innovation Week.

A week full of inspiring new forms of cooperation between entrepreneurial business people, government, education and science that lead to new markets, products and services in consultation with the end user, www.esiw.nl tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Culture & Events FESTIVAL VENUES LEIJPARK This 30-acre park was built in an English landscape style as a job creation project prior to World War II. The tiny De Leij stream from which the park derives its name lends it extra allure. In the summer, several festivals take place here.

QJ-6, Ringbaan Zuid.

MUZENTUIN The Muzentuin is a hidden gem where concerts and theatre events take place on a regular basis. It was formerly the garden of the monastery of the Order of Our Lady of Visitation.QC-4, Zwijsenplein 1.

TIVOLI PARK (INTERPOLISTUIN) The Tivoli Park is located on the edge of the shopping and entertainment district of the city centre. Its trees and ponds make it the perfect place for a wide variety of cultural events. The name of this green oasis comes from its sponsor, the Interpolis insurance company, which also owns the gigantic futuristic building next door.QE-2, Spoorlaan 298.

SPORT VENUES IJSSPORTCENTRUM For years this has been the home of the Tilburg Trappers, a local ice hockey team. Individuals and groups can also come here to practice their pirouettes or hockey stops.

Take buses Nr.1 or 11 from central station. Only open in autumn and winter.QI-6, Stappegoorweg 3, tel. (+31) 135 32 58 00, www.tilburg.nl. Open 10:00 - 22:00. TL IRENE WÜST IJSBAAN Irene Wust, a skater from the nearby village of Gloirle, won two gold medals at the Olympic winter games in both 2006 and 2010. She’s also one of the biggest all-round skating stars in Holland, so it comes as no surprise that the Tilburg Ice Rink was named after her.QI-6, Curlingstraat 15, tel. (+31) 135 83 61 00, www.ijsclubtilburg.nl. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Mon 10:00 - 19:30, Sat 12:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. (€5.80). T WILLEM II STADIUM Since the local football club hasn’t had much success recently, most people come to this great stadium for concerts by famous Dutch pop stars.QI-6, Goirleseweg 34, tel. (+31) 135 49 05 90, www.willem-ii.nl.

The Tilburg Ten Miles is held every September

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EXHIBITIONS Exhibition Venue ´Brabant in de Ban van Buiten´ is a permanent exhibit at Natuurmuseum NB Brabant. You´ll get a taste of the beauty the Netherlands, especially Brabant Back to the Ice Age! Don´t be afraid of the huge mammoth and his other firends at NB this wonderful exhibition Toon Verhoef, Recent Paintings. Every painting arose from one of his many DP sketches. On display until 03.05.2015 The films of Isaac Julien are both fact and fiction, aesthetics and critical reflection.

DP On display until 31.05.2015 The innovative part of the TextielMuseum, called The TextileLab, worked together with some great designers to TM create the beautiful yet pratical products shown here. On display until 14.06.2015 One of the recent films by Hamza Halloubi will be shown for the first time in DP the Netherlands at De Pont. On display until 30.08.2015 Dumas loves photography, but gets inspired by art. Dogs, horses, tigers and DP wolves are a major part of her collection.

On display from 05.09.2015 - 10.01.2016 Sculptures made of fabric and human hair create something between animals TM and humans. On display until 20.09.2015

THEATRES DE NWE VORST This building has served various functions since it was built in 1872, but today it’s a modern, unusual theatre.

It offers two stages, one large and one incredibly small where you’re practically sitting in the laps of the actors.

QC-3, Willem II straat 49, tel. (+31) 135 32 85 20, www. denwevorst.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 15:00 - 18:00.

Closed Mon, Sun. TJHGK THEATRES TILBURG Theaters Tilburg consists of a monumental theatre, a strikingconcert hall, a studio and intimate arthouse cinema.

A culturalspot with a wide range of performing arts and film. Enjoy more than 300 performances and concerts and 600 movies this year. Also many Dutch musicals have premiered and young talents from the neighbouring Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (Art College) regularly perform here. Quality and service are paramount, even their own restaurant-café Lucebert.QB-4, Louisbouwmeesterplein 1, tel. (+13) 135 43 22 20, fax (+31) 135 43 95 53, ticketservice@theaterstilburg.nl, www.theaterstilburg. nl. Open 12:00 - 01:00. GBK April 2015 - March 2016

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Restaurants With a population of thousands of international students, Tilburg isn’t exactly a Mecca for foodies and gourmets, but local restaurants do cater to pretty much every ethnic taste.

It’s possible to sip margaritas at siesta time and savour souvlaki for supper. And compared to other European cities, typical tourist traps are relatively rare. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture to leave 10% for good service.

Prices that appear in parentheses indicate the average cost of a main course only.

SYMBOL KEY

ARABIC

6 Pets allowed

X Smoking section

S Takeaway

W Wifi

SARBAN Even if Afghan cuisine doesn’t ring any bells, anyone who has enjoyed a meal at Sarban will leave the restaurant full of praise and admiration. The starters and mains consist of several dishes with a variety of appetisers. The service is very friendly and the staff is keen to explain what’s on offer. The Sarban logo depicts camels and they’re also to be found in photographs and statues all over the restaurant.

Strangely enough it’s main table is at the back and is typically Afghan. Think of a raised stage with gorgeous cushions on which guests sit cross-legged. Diners remove their shoes and beach wraps are available for women wearing short skirts. Also a perfect place to smoke a water pipe.QI5, Besterdring 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 35 67, www.sarban.nl.

Open 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (€27). TG

ASIAN JADE This Asian restaurant has a large menu with Chinese, Japanese and Thai dishes. While it isn’t cheap, the pricequality ratio is quite good at Jade. The interior is a different matter. Jade has held onto the standard Asian restaurant interior design of the 1980s with a lot of rubbish on the walls and shoddy use of colours. However, the varied cuisine largely makes up for that and it also offers take away.

You can watch the tasty lobsters in the tank while you wait.QB-1, Spoorlaan 406-408, tel. (+31) 135 42 31 81, www.restaurantjade.com. Open 16:00 - 22:30, Fri 12:00 - 22:30, Sun 13:00 - 22:30. (€25 - 30). PAGS

BELGIAN ANVERS Antwerp on the Oude Markt; that’s Anvers. This ‘pub with kitchen’ has a large, heated terrace and inside you can experience a typical Belgian atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

Make sure to check out the beautiful atrium and enjoy the views of the historic ceiling with its beautiful wooden beams. If you’re wondering why the food is so tasty, the kitchen boasts a Spanish charcoal oven where many of the dishes are cooked. The menu also offers more than 70 beers from around the globe, but the authentic Belgian brews are still our favourite.QB-3, Oude Markt 8, tel. (+31) 135 83 35 33, info@anvers.nl, www.oudemarkt.nl.

Open 10:00 - 01:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 10:30 - 01:00. (€13 - 18). PTJABW 18 Tilburg In Your Pocket

A Accepts credit cards P Air conditioning O Casino

I Fireplace

V Home delivery

E Live music

J Old town location B Outside seating

CHILD FRIENDLY ETENSTIJD From the outside this restaurant looks like an English mansion, yet the interior is reminiscent of an old-fashioned ocean liner. In the middle there’s an enormous clock which you can walk through to access the balcony. This may sound romantic like a scene from Titanic, but Etenstijd is hardly a suitable location for an intimate dinner for two. It is, however, ideal for families and groups who can get stuck into an all you can eat offer for a set price within a two-hour time frame. The extensive buffet offers some refined dishes as well as plenty of stuff for the little ones.

The cellar also houses a playground.QJ-6, Professor van Buchemlaan 4, tel. (+31) 135 37 26 50, www.etenstijd.nl.

Open 17:00 - 22:00, Fri 17:00 - 22:30, Sat 16:00 - 22:30, Sun 16:00 - 22:00. (€25). PZTAGBXW

CHINESE I PIN KE This isn’t just the best Chinese restaurant in Tilburg, but probably one of the best in the Netherlands. Put aside the horrible, typically Chinese kitschy interior and get ready to feast. Although some people swear by the egg rolls, our favourites have to be the Peking duck, Tipan dishes and crab cocktail with, yes, real crab. I Pin Ke actually delivers that which many similar establishments merely promise.

QH-5, Bredaseweg 105, tel. (+31) 135 43 41 05, www. ipinke.nl. Open 15:00 - 22:00, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 12:00 22:00. (€2 - 52). TLGS

Enjoy great atmosphere and food at Taste!

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Restaurants DUTCH BOERKE MUTSAERS Although this restaurant has been owned by the Mutsaers family since 1644 you shouldn’t expect antique furnishings in this modern multi-functional building. The restaurant part is not particularly large, but has a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere and puts one more in mind of the English countryside than a location near the Tilburg West train station.

The unusual menu covers many regional dishes, including the popular peppered hare, which has been prepared here according to the same secret family recipe for four centuries.QH-5, Vijverlaan 2, tel. (+31) 135 90 08 08, www. boerkemutsaers.nl. Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:30 - 21:00.

Closed Mon. (€19). PTHAULBXW BOMMEL BEER This restaurant, which is part of a national chain, is located in the same building as Euroscoop, Tilburg’s largest cinema. Unfortunately, the large scale of the massive hall doesn’t contribute anything to the restaurant’s atmosphere. If anything, it feels like a theme park restaurant. A couple of stuffed bears have been placed here and there and an attempt has been made to imitate some kind of medieval castle interior, but it doesn’t really work. It may be a fine place for families to have an affordable bite to eat before or after a film, but couples out for a romantic dinner for two are better off skipping this place.QH-6, OIympiaplein 1, tel. (+31) 135 82 03 44, www.beren.nl. Open 12:00 - 23:00. (€11 - 16). PTUBK HUMPHREY’S Humphrey’s three floors are very modern, yet still classical in keeping with the successful formula employed by this Dutch chain of restaurants. You’ll come across large, fully-stocked bookcases and glass jars filled with grains and beans. From the first floor you have a great view of the Heuvelplein, where you can sit and watch children play in the fountain in summer. Order a set three-course menu for a fixed price, but don’t forget to ask for a traditional Dutch baguette with herb butter to start. Humphrey’s menu changes every month.QD-3, Heuvel 34a, tel. (+31) 135 81 01 46, www.humphreys.nl. Open 17:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 22:30. (€24.95). JABK KLEIN TILBURG Want to get a good idea of what this city looks like in only an hour? Try Klein Tilburg. Wherever you look, you’ll see the town’s distinctive buildings in its décor. The restaurant is located just outside the centre and is remarkably versatile. In summer you can have a full barbecue or organise a high tea with your friends in the afternoon. The smallest option will only cost you only €15.25 and includes 11 different dishes plus a cup of tea. You can also try high tapas with starters and mains that change with the seasons. Klein Tilburg also offers an extensive menu for lunch and dinner.QI-5, Beukenstraat 40, tel. (+31) 134 68 30 12, www.kleintilburg.nl. Open , Wed, Thu 16:30 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 16:30 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€17 - 22). PTUBKS facebook.com/inyourpocket

FESTIVAL MUNDIAL Intimate and accessible describe Festival Mundial perfectly. In fact, Festival Mundial has been searching the globe for the latest sounds and inspiring, exciting performances for years now. You won’t find any huge commercial acts in its line-up, but it does offer a wide variety of talent from nearly every continent on the planet.

This year, for the first time in its history, the festival will be spread out over three days and the additional Friday night will have a special Mexican theme that will showcase the latest Latin American trends. Tilburg’s trendy Spoorzone will once again host this year’s artists, volunteers and visitors from June 27 - 29. A colourful programme consisting of music, dance, theatre, circus performances and exceptional food will all be within reach both indoors and out. With 20 events areas and 12 stages you’ll never be bored and your only problem will be how to divide your precious time between all of the amazing acts on offer. And skaters, don’t forget to bring those boards because you’ll be able to show off your skills in the Hall of Fame!

Anyone who wants to enjoy the full three-day spectrum of cultures can stay on the premises over the course of the weekend. For the ultimate Mundial experience you and your fellow travellers have the opportunity to keep the party going until the wee hours by staying at the campsite, which is located within walking distance of the festivities. Holiday caravans, mobile homes and tents are all welcome at the campsite. For more information visit www.festivalmundial.nl.

April 2015 - March 2016

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Restaurants EUROPEAN BIKU This is the place to go during the summer months. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront terrace at the Piushaven, but if the sun refuses to cooperate then head inside and relax in what looks like Biku’s living room decorated with beautiful Bali Buddhas. Although you’ll no doubt be impressed by the aroma of the food, special fragrances, fine soaps, scented candles and other lifestyle products also create a heady perfume at this restaurant.QJ-6, Havendijk 75, tel. (+31) 138 22 50 02, info@biku.nl, www.biku.nl. Open 10:00 - 20:00, Sun 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€17 - 22). GB PUUR MERCURE If you’re looking for a modern, trendy restaurant with a matching menu, this is the place. The businesslike interior where white, brown and dark grey tones prevail make for a calm, yet refined atmosphere. The menu lists such dishes as corn chicken fillet, jumbo shrimp and salads, all for affordable prices. Because this restaurant is connected to the hotel of the same name, you’ll find plenty of business travellers and tourists here. If you’re into the brown stuff, sample a dram of single malt from the bar’s extensive collection of whiskeys.QD-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 135 35 46 75, www.puur-mercure.nl. Open 09:00 01:00. (€13 - 18). JAB TASTE! ‘Hier adem ik vrij en voel ik mij gelukkig’ (or ‘here I can breathe freely and I feel happy’), is written on the wall of Taste. It’s actually a quote that King William II once made about Tilburg. This restaurant, which can be reached through Hotel Mercure, only serves the crème de la crème of the culinary spectrum. The interior is modern and you can see exactly what the chefs are doing in the open plan kitchen. The wines are perfectly suited to the dishes served and each plate is a feast for the eyes and a surprise for your taste buds. In short, this is one of Tilburg’s best restaurants.QD-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 135 35 32 96, www.tastetilburg.nl. Open 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. (€21 - 26).

JABW

DE RITZ This place offers little ambience, but it does sell really tasty hot and cold sandwiches. Specialised in Surinamese delicaties. All the local businesses in the surrounding area come to De Ritz for lunch and in the evening you won’t find the kind of people that enjoy a kebab or a hamburger, but rather the kind of person that wants a healthy meal.QD-2, Heuvelring 43, tel. (+31) 135 43 06 66, www.ritz-broodjes.nl. Open 11:00 - 21:00. (€3 - 6).

JVGBS SNITZ This place is a must for frites fanatics. You’ll find this chip shop par excellence in one of the working class areas just outside the city centre. The cheerful owner fries the best chips for miles around with a sense of humour, pride and craftsmanship. Avoid Sundays or queue up behind the last local around 18:00 as it’s rush hour at Snitz!QI-6, Nieuwstraat 124, tel. (+31) 624 88 26 60.

TLNS

FRENCH LUCEBERT if you’re indecisive about going out for a posh meal or a bite to eat in a more casual café, you can satisfy both options at Lucebert. To the left of the entrance you’ll find a chic restaurant and to the right a cosy bistro. Its location next to the main entrance of Theaters Tilburg means that many a culture vulture, including posh folk over 60, can be spotted here before or after a play. The well off won’t regret the three-course menu in the restaurant with its linen covered tables and beautiful décor, while the budget-minded will be happy with the cheap dish of the day in the relaxed bistro. From the elaborately decorated walls, the deceased poet and painter Lucebert observes the goings on here, but bear in mind that the establishment named in his honour is only open on nights when performances are scheduled in the theatre.QB-4, Schouwburgring, tel. (+31) 135 43 25 15, www.theaterstilburg.nl/lucebert. Open 17:00 - 22:00. (€24 - 28). PJAULGBX

FAST FOOD & QUICK EATS BROODJE JANTJE If you’re looking for an authentic snack from Tilburg, you have to taste Broodje Jantje. It’s a kind of hamburger with sauce that’s made according to a local recipe and it has been eaten in the city for generations by people of all ages. In addition to the roll, you can also buy fries, croquettes and frikandellen to truly experience Dutch fast food culture.QD-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 2, tel. (+31) 135 49 96 00, www.broodjejantje.nl. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 04:00, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (€2 - 5). JS 20 Tilburg In Your Pocket

De Burgerij is a good place for local food

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Restaurants MONARH Does French cuisine infused with global flavours and eccentric architectural design in a beautiful location sound appealing? Then pay a visit to the former Sacred Hearts mission for a wonderful culinary experience. The interior of the restaurant is impressive, especially its lovely view of the garden populated by giant trees and the dishes on the menu are properly paired with the more than 80 European wines in its ‘cellar’. Although recently opened, this is fast becoming one of Tilburg’s best restaurants.QI-5, Bredaseweg 204, tel. (+31) 135 36 58 05, info@monarh. nl, www.monarh.nl. Open 18:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. AG

GREEK MINOS PALLAS You’ll find everything you expect from a Greek restaurant here including a bit of kitsch and a lot of Greek décor like faux columns, wall paintings, ceramic pots and wooden furniture. The menu however, is quite surprising. The Greek dishes are authentic and the seafood, like the swordfish, is excellent. There’s also an outdoor terrace at Minas Palas, which reinforces its Mediterranean atmosphere when knocking back an ouzo or two. Unfortunately, its only view is of a busy motorway.QD-3, Heuvelring 224, tel. (+31) 135 35 00 35, www.minospallas.net. Open 16:00 - 22:00. (€19 24). AB TAVERNA DE GRIEK Located in the center and within walking distance of the trainstation, this Greek taverna offers an extensive menu full of mezedes (Greek tapas) and authentic Greek cuisine. Are you familiar with Spanakopitakia , souvlakia or koftedakia? It may be difficult to pronounce, but it´s light on the taste buds. This restaurants also offers a take-away menu.QD-2, Heuvelring 33, tel. (+31) 135 35 86 96, info@tavernadegriek.com, www.tavernadegriek.com. Open 17:00 - 23:00. (€18 - €23). JGS

GRILL HEAVEN’S KITCHEN Are you up for some grillin’ and chillin’ at the Piushaven? Just look for the beautiful mural of a life buoy and a piece of meat skewered on a pitchfork on the terrace of this former factory. Inside, the bare brick walls and the steel beams painted green create a pleasant industrial atmosphere. Almost everything on the menu is grilled, the meat as well as the vegetables, so if you’re not a fan of the open flame then this probably isn’t the place for you. Every last Friday of the month you can also stop by for ‘Dance in Heaven.’QE-4, Piushaven 21, tel. (+31) 135 43 20 14, info@heavenskitchen.nl, www.heavenskitchen.nl.

Open 17:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 01:00, Sun 11:00 - 23:00. (€17 - 22). GB facebook.com/inyourpocket

Enjoy a drink with friends at one of Tilburg’s many terraces!

RODEO GRILL RESTAURANT Carnivores can get their daily intake of iron at the Latin American-style Rodeo, which specialises in meat dishes of all stripes including small 180g fillets and monster 800g steaks that could give a lion a run for its money. There are a few seafood options for the vegetarians among us, but the delicious aroma of sizzling flesh would probably be too much for them to stand. This is the sort of place where lumberjacks would feel at home, due to the generous servings and the wood interior, although a bit more privacy might attract even more gluttons to this affordable restaurant.QD-3, Heuvelring 120, tel. (+31) 137 505 841, www.rodeo-tilburg.nl. Open 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (€15 - 20). PJABKW

HEALTH FOOD TUINHUIS CULINAIR You’ll find ‘t Tuinhuis (the Garden House) at the fringe of a not particularly appealing shopping centre. As the name suggests, the owners enjoy outdoor living and the menu they’ve created from candied steak and teriyaki dishes to steamed duck breast and tempura fried Dutch herring reflect their travels around the globe. All of these eclectic dishes are prepared with dedication and love in an openplan kitchen.QH-5, Westermarkt 5, tel. (+31) 134 63 48 68, www.tuinhuisculinair.nl. Open , Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Tue, Wed 11:00 - 20:30, Thu 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 23:00. Closed Sun. (€18 - 23). ZTULBKSW YAMMIE Ever since this establishment moved to the Piusplein, it isn’t hard to find anymore and especially if you like a trendy atmosphere and healthy meals that you can take away in a card board box with chop sticks this will be your thing.

Yammie’s menu is very large, but the food tastes really good. This little take-away restaurant also has a lounge corner where you can wait while your meal is being prepared. Yammie also delivers.QC-2, Piusplein 74, tel. (+31) 135 80 29 23, www.yammietilburg.nl. Open 12:00 21:30. (€4 - 15). JVGS April 2015 - March 2016

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Restaurants HISTORIC TAVERNS ST. PETRUS Next to the Church of Saint Peter you’ll find the comfortable terrace of Saint Peter’s Inn. The fitting name as well as the furnishings seem to have borrowed much from the church next door, but in a modern fashion. A priest delivers a sermon from his pulpit in the middle of the room and on the left hand side of the restaurant you could confess to the greed which is bound to overwhelm you when looking at the excellent menu. The same owner runs Taverne Paulus next door.QM-8, Gelderstraat 1, Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31) 135 05 21 66, www.petrus-paulus.nl. Open 08:00 - 22:00. (€25 - 30). AUBW

ICE CREAM INTERMEZZO If you want to taste the most delicious, home made ice cream in the city, then look no further than Intermezzo. Unfortunately, the clean and sleek salon on Heuvelring is only open for a few months every year, but in the spring and summer local Tilburgers queue up here for the Italian-style frosty stuff. You’ll find flavours like grandma’s apple pie and white chocolate as well as ciambella, fruitella and green apple. Most customers take their ice cream cones with them.QD-2, Heuvering 31, tel. (+31) 135 44 89 22, www.intermezzotilburg.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. (€1 - 5). JGBS

INDONESIAN DE KLEINE INDO The décor borrows heavily from traditional Indonesian furnishings, but with a modern twist. The window sills are covered in Wajang dolls, the tables are set with bamboo placemats and, true to tradition, the staff wear sarongs.

The food’s authentically Indonesian, prepared the way old Javan women might, but in a professional manner. Several types of satay form the core of this traditional menu and typically Indonesian drinks like klappa muda (rose syrup) and tjendol (coconut milk) are also served here.QI-5, Professor Romeinstraat 19, tel. (+31) 135 81 29 90, www. dekleine-indo.nl. Open 16:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€11 - 16). TUS

Enjoy tasty Mexican food at Tortillas

22 Tilburg In Your Pocket

GEMBER & SEREH You can order your food as spicy as you like it at the Gember & Sereh Indonesian speciality restaurant, but you’re personally responsible for any pain and discomfort should your burning tongue and watering eyes cause you any problems. The tables aren’t pushed together due to lack of space like at many restaurants. Instead, a large room full of tables and chairs with high backs help keep your conversations private. Recommended.

QD-3, Heuvel 3, tel. (+31) 135 36 05 85, www.gembersereh.nl. Open 16:00 - 22:00. Closed Tue. (€17 - 22).

JGBS

INTERNATIONAL DE KIEVITSHOEVE More than a century ago farmer Peerke van de Staak established a pub miles from the city centre of Tilburg. A hundred year later this establishment is now called ‘Reeshof’s Livingroom’ after the surrounding estate. Some of the main courses sound a bit pretentious like the caramelized duck breast and Iberico pork roulaux (rolls) and the chef hasn’t put much effort into the kids’ menu. Unfortunately, the staff aren’t very capable either and our food was served lukewarm. All told, in spite of its excellent location, the beautiful building and terrace, this place could use some improvement.QF-4, Nijkerkstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135 70 51 05, www.dekievitshoeve.nl. Open 11:00 24:00. (€18 - 22). TB DE ROOI PANNEN There are nearly 8,000 students at De Rooij Pannen, one of the largest education centres for the hospitality industry in Holland. No less than five different restaurants as well as a hotel have been established in a distinctive old convent, where the students learn the skills of their professions in a practical setting. Don’t worry therefore, if a teacher turns up to correct your waiter if he makes a mistake. Fortunately the food that reaches your table has already been deemed fit for human consumption in the kitchen and everything that ends up on your plate tastes superb. All of this is available for only a fraction of the price you’d pay in a comparable restaurant. It is, however, closed during school holidays.QI-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135 95 56 50, www.derooipannen.nl. Open 12:00 - 13:30 & 17:3019:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Open 12:00 - 13:30, 17:30 - 19:00.

Closed Sat, Sun. (€15 - 20). THAULGW DE SPAARBANK This historic art nouveau national monument from 1910 is an ode to architecturally better times. Today people can enjoy it with lunch or dinner at De Spaarbank which is decorated by historic details like a bank vault, a period chandelier, a fire place, a nostalgic train seat and, best of all, many wonderful stained-glass windows. There’s a large selection of beers available.QB-2, Noordstraat 125, tel. (+31) 135 43 83 31, www.stadscafedespaarbank.nl.

Open 10:30 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:30 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. (€16 - 21). TJ6UEGBW tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Restaurants TILBURG FAIR

The Dutch and their bikes… Sooner or later you’ll have your own

THE TALK Do not be discouraged by the semi-philosophical aphorisms on the wall, such as: ‘Two monologues don’t make a dialogue’. The Talk will keep you guessing with its multifunctionality. This is a colourful place not only for a lovely lunch or dinner, but also the right address for an affordable drink. You can even ask the staff for a (simple) cocktail. The open kitchen, the mixture of architectural styles and the variety on the menu will put even the greatest pessimist at ease.QD-2, Heuvel 20, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 23, www. thetalk.nl. Open 11:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 24:00. (€11 - 16). PTJVGBX ‘T ZUSJE The concept is simple at this tapas restaurant. For a fixed price you can eat as much as you like over the course of the evening. Pile your plate high with ham and melon, fried perch, mini-cheeseburgers or seared scallops. The décor is warm and inviting, but we recommend a table upstairs for beautiful views of the Heuvel Church.QD-3, Heuvel 5, tel. (+31) 137 20 08 99, www.zusje-tapas.nl. Open 17:30 - 22:30, Sun 16:30 - 22:30. (€27). TJG

ITALIAN CINQUEMINUTI Cinqueminuti is a good place to grab a quick pizza, pasta, panini or sandwich. The pasta is made right in front of you so there’s no question about its freshness and a tasty Italian coffee can also be had if you’re only looking for a little caffeine pick-me-up.QC-2, Willem II Straat 66, www. cinqueminutitilburg.nl. Open 16:00 - 21:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€5 - 10). J

If you enjoy enormous fairs, you can’t afford to miss Tilburg Kermis. This is the largest fair in the Benelux nations offering between 230 and 250 attractions every year. It’s also unique in that the whole city centre is closed off to accommodate it creating a fairground 4.5km long. Each year the Tilburg Kermis attracts more than one million visitors which makes it one of the best attended events in the Netherlands.

The history of the fair dates back to 1570 when it began as an annual market to celebrate the consecration day of Tilburg’s patron saint. The word ‘kermis’ developed from kerkmis or kerkemisse, meaning church service. In its 440 year history, Tilburg Kermis has grown into a leading event with loads of modern fairground attractions, many of which are often unveiled for the very first time at the ten-day celebration. But there’s also space for older attractions at the so-called nostalgic kermis. You can find old-fashioned attractions, which are actually still pretty popular, especially with kids.

In addition to the hundreds of rides and games on offer, the rest of the city centre gets involved in the event as well. Pubs and restaurants organise large-scale stages, DJ-sets and special theme evenings. There are afternoons with reduced prices, especially for the disabled and for kids and on the the famous Pink Monday.

This event, which brings gays and lesbians from all over the Benelux nations to Tilburg, has turned this particular Monday into the busiest day of the entire fair. Many artists perform on Pink Monday on one of many stages in town or at special party tents and in the town’s gay bars.

Tilburg Kermis even boasts its own radio station.

Kermis FM, which can be received on 107 FM only during the kermis and exclusively in the Tilburg area, offers a mix of information about the event, traffic info and typical kermis music. When the full ten days of partying are over, the kermis is traditionally buried. The rides and games close at 22:00 and a funeral procession makes its way through the town towards the Pius Harbour where the locals say goodbye to the Kermis with plenty of noise and a 15-minute fireworks display.

In 2014, the Tilburg Kermis will be held from Friday, July 18 up to and including Sunday, July 27.

VAPIANO The name of this Italian restaurant loosely translates as ‘take it easy’. The formula of self-service and à la minute cooking is nothing new but they still do a good job here.

Upon entering you’ll be given a pass which records everything you eat and then just pay at the register when you leave. Chances are you’ll have to join a queue, but it’s worth the short wait for the fresh food.QD-3, Piusplein 65, tel. (+31) 137 62 17 09, www.vapiano.nl. Open 10:00 - 24:00. (€4 - 9). TJGS facebook.com/inyourpocket

April 2015 - March 2016

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Restaurants JAPANESE & SUSHI ASIAN BOULEVARD A complete Asian food street in Tilburg. In this ‘street ‘ , different Asian cuisines come together : sushi (Japanese), kimchi (Korean) and wok. The first two are all you can eat restaurants. At the Korean department you can grill your own meat and vegetables at the table. It are large restaurants with plenty of space. This is also the downside, because it’s not really a nice place for a romantic dinner.

Perfect match with the cinema which is just a stone ‘s throw away. There are also special combo deals on food and film.QI-6, Curlingstraat 1 - 11, tel. (+31) 135 90 61 47/(+31) 135 43 19 70, www.asianboulevard.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. (€23.50). PG ENJOII You’ll find Enjoii at the NS Plein (Railway Square) not far from the centre of town. It’s the latest in a long line of sushi restaurants that have recently sprung up all over Tilburg.

The restaurant consists of a sushi section, a buffet area and a place where you can sit together around the grill while your food is being juggled right before your eyes. The buffet menu is very straightforward, but the sushi offers more than a few surprises. For example, you can order frushi (sushi with bits of fruit), which has just blown over from the United States. The restaurant also offers an interesting view of the old rail yard.QD-1, NS-Plein 38, tel. (+31) 135 42 11 75, www.tasteofjoii.nl. Open 13:00 - 22:30, Sat 13:00 - 23:00, Sun 13:00 - 22:00. (€21). JG SHINZO At Shinzo sushi, lounge and grill, you can eat all you like for a fixed sum of money, just like at many of the other sushi restaurants in Tilburg. Free ice cream, good choices of sashimi and a special price for children are small differences that set it apart from the rest. Downstairs you’ll find a lounge area with sofas, wonderful broad chairs and ambient lights. The dining area upstairs is like a refurbished farm attic, but in Japanese style. The decorations of enormous vases, gigantic lion statues and geishas will keep you occupied between bites.QE-4, Piushaven 17, tel. (+31) 135 81 28 17, www.shinzolounge.nl. Open 16:00 22:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (€23.50).

TJLGX SUSHI BOULEVARD ‘A lot for a little’ is the maxim here in every respect. An all-you-can-eat meal can be had for a set price of €21.50 provided you finish within 2.5 hours. It’s obvious there are several seatings a night, because the wait staff work so fast that your order slip has disappeared before you realise it.

Although the uninviting arrangement of tables can be annoying, the cheerful and cosy area near the large windows at the front is excellent and the sushi specialities are fingerlicking good and as fresh as can be!QI-6, Curlingstraat 1-11, tel. (+31) 135 90 61 47, info@asianboulevard.nl, www.asianboulevard.nl. Open 17:00 - 22:30. (€21.50).

TJA 24 Tilburg In Your Pocket

Tilburg has its own City Beach in the summer

SUSHI SUKI Sushi Suki is a kind of square cafeteria that desperately tries to imitate Japanese style with four rice paper columns. The menu offers more than 100 types of sushi and the food is quite tasty. In contrast to the country of the Rising Sun, tea here is served in enormous pitchers and during the week you can order all-you-can-eat for a fixed price. The friendly staff will also welcome you if you simply want a few small appetisers, for which you won’t have to pay the full price. The chefs also give you as much wasabi as you can handle with your sushi.QD-3, Piusplein 55, tel. (+31) 135 44 91 28, www.sushisuki. nl. Open 16:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 22:30. (€23.50).

PTJALGSW

MEDITERRANEAN MAÑANA Given the often dreary weather in the Netherlands, the Dutch enjoy escaping to warmer climates. The Mañana tapas bar fills this niche perfectly with tasty Spanish mini dishes. Although the restaurant is located in a rather gloomy alley, locals know where to find it because it’s always busy here. With a wall to wall canopy and flamenco dancers on the canvasses on the walls, the atmosphere is definitely Iberian.QD-3, Zwaanstraat 18, tel. (+31) 135 45 34 37, www.tapasbarmanana.nl. Open 17:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 01:00. Closed Tue. (€3 - 8).

JUGB MEESTERS This place is Mediterranean and a tad exclusive, but despite the expensive exterior and typical hors d’oeuvre before dinner, MeesterS is absolutely affordable for the middle class. The restaurant is divided into multiple rooms with different ceiling heights, so the bustle is never overwhelming. A lot of the building’s original details have survived renovations such as leaded glass, the high wooden doors between the rooms and the elegantly decorated ceiling. A lot more can be seen on the terrace including the highlight - an abstract fountain from 1972.

QC-3, Monumentstraat 6, tel. (+31) 135 36 29 87, www. stadscafemeesters.nl. Open 10:30 - 22:00, Sun 14:00 22:00. (€18 - 23). TJHA6GB tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Restaurants MEXICAN TORTILLA’S Close the front door and you’ll think you’re in a tropical paradise surrounded by decorations with strong and vibrant colours like parrots, traditional dishes, Mexican rugs and all kinds of bits and pieces which contribute to the restaurant’s atmosphere. The menu is good and affordable and all the dishes are mouthwatering including the Cocoloco dessert. The restaurant boasts a big, beautiful courtyard garden which provides lots of privacy from the city in summer. If you prefer people watching take a seat on the terrace. Mind you, it gets busy - so don’t be late. Make sure to try the fruity sangria, guaranteed to put you in a good mood.QD-3, Heuvel 47, tel. (+31) 135 45 41 55, www. tortillas.nl. Open 16:30 - 23:00. (€13 - 18). JAB

OUT OF TOWN BOSLUST In the wooded area surrounding Udenhout you’ll find Boslust, a café that was founded in1897, which is now a real tourist attraction. Play mini-golf, visit the playground with your children or take a bike ride through the Loonse and Drunense Duinen (natural dunes). The menu has something for everyone including food for kids and vegetarians. Boslust is also an ideal point of departure for anyone who wants to explore the city’s rural surroundings.QM-7, Schoorstraat 37, Udenhout, tel. (+31) 135 11 18 72, www.brasserieboslust.nl. Open 10:00 - 00:00. Closed Mon. (€14 - 18). TUBX

PANCAKES DE PANNEKOEKENBAKKER Tilburg’s city centre is full of ultra modern buildings, but halfway down the busiest shopping street is a narrow alley which leads to a coach house from 1897. It’s nothing short of a miracle that these premises survived the forces of modernisation that altered neighbouring buildings forever. This amazing place serves 250 different kinds of pancakes including our favourite: chicken satay pancakes! On sunny days try the small garden behind the restaurant.QC-3, Heuvelstraat 40, tel. (+31) 135 36 14 26, www.pannekoekenbakkertilburg.nl. Open 12:00 - 19:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 20:00.

Closed Mon. (€8 - 13). TJGB

King William II in the city where he was happiest

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Meesters is a beautiful spot worth visiting

SURINAMESE FAJA LOBI These small, narrow premises with only a couple of tables have the look and feel of a Surinamese bar, but it actually has much more to offer. Faja Lobi is the only Surinamese restaurant in Tilburg, so if you’re craving roti or catjang this is the place to go. The menu is excellent for both lunch and dinner and if you just need to cool down after an exhausting afternoon try the Surinamese Djogo beer.QB-3, Oude Markt 9, tel. (+31) 135 44 96 66, www.fajalobi-tilburg. nl. Open 12:00 - 21:00, Sun 16:00 - 20:30. Closed Mon. (€5 - 10). JUBS

THAI JASMINE The restaurant is decorated haphazardly with an excess of Thai frills, but the menu is attractive and organised very clearly by the type of meat on offer: chicken, beef, pork or fish. For added clarity there’s an indication of how spicy each meal is. When you see three red peppers there’s a danger of combustion and tears, whereas a dish with no peppers is even safe enough for children. Daredevils who order spicy courses can douse the fire with real Thai beer: Singha. The music provided is no doubt popular in Thailand, but definitely an acquired taste.QI-5, Molenstraat 136, tel. (+31) 135 81 07 66, www.jasminethai.nl. Open 15:00 22:00. Closed Mon. (€8 - 13). G

TURKISH MELISA For several years Turkey has been holiday destination number 1 for the Dutch and this is partly due to the allinclusive all-you-can-eat packages that are often offered.

However, if you expect to be served the same processed Western trash in Melisa that these holiday factories spew out three times a day, you’re mistaken. Meilsa’s brilliant food matches the view of the Donge Valley, one of Tilburg’s most attractive and relatively unknown areas of outstanding natural beauty.QF-4, Dalempromenade 70, tel. (+31) 135 70 47 70, www.restaurantmelisa.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (€16 - 20). TALBS April 2015 - March 2016

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Cafés The Dutch share a love of espresso and cappuccino with the Italians. Cafés in Tilburg quite often offer much more than just a cup of coffee with pastry or a cup of tea. Most of them have soups, salads and sandwiches on their menus, so the border between restaurants, pubs and cafés is very thin. But have a look over our carefully selected cafés and pick the one that is just right for your mood or occasion, Eet smakelijk!

BAKERIES BAKKERTJE BOL This pleasant corner building at the Heuvelstraat is a good place for a quick snack. Enjoy a traditional Dutch banquet of homemade sausage rolls, quiche muffins and sandwiches, but bear in mind that it’s primarily a takeaway as there’s only room enough for a dozen or so people.QD-3, Heuvel 29, tel. (+31) 137 20 09 82, info@bakkertjebol.nl, www.bakkertjebol.nl. (€2 - 7). S TILBURG SOURDOUGH Making proper bread can be an art. Simple ingredients like flour, water and salt, and sometimes a piece of cheese or some nuts, combine to create something wonderful.

This beautiful shop with old-fashioned stained glass in wooden frames sells bread as it was meant to be.QC-3, Willem II Straat 82, tel. (+31) 137 50 51 77, info@ tilburgsourdough.nl, www.tilburgsourdough.nl. Open 08:00 - 17:30, Tue 10:00 - 17:30, Sat 07:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J VAN VLERKEN This tiny, old-fashioned shop has no website or Facebook page and that says everything. Step in, sit down and let Mr. Van Vlerken serve you a cup of coffee and a Dutch snack. Afterwards, you can pay at the antique mechanical cash register and travel back in time before the digital age arrived. The lunchroom offers both a bakery full of goodies and an adjoining room to enjoy it in. In short, it’s an oasis of calm and tranquillity in the bustling centre of Tilburg.QB-3, Heuvelstraat 116, tel. (+31) 135 42 34 43. (€2 - 7). JS

CAFÉS BEANS & BITES This lunchroom is the only one in Tilburg that can be described as New York-style. On your way to the railway station drop in for a good cup of fresh coffee. Order something typically Dutch and simple or well-sweetened the American way with syrups flavoured with pistachio, caramel, tiramisu or chocolate and mint. Try a tasty and filling sandwich or if you fancy something a bit more gourmet then order a chocolate croissant, brownie or a muffin.

Beans & Bites is the perfect lunchroom for a quick takeaway, but the cosy décor is also inviting enough to make you stay for a leisurely cup of java.QB-1, Stationstraat 14, tel. (+31) 132 11 02 15, www.beansandbites.com. Open 07:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. 26 Tilburg In Your Pocket

BUUTVRIJ Despite its industrial-style interior, this café is cosy and a great place to have a cup of Java. Take your pick of coffees, enjoy a slice of homemade pie, finish some work on your laptop or take a look at a new band or the latest art exhibition. Everything’s possible at this crowded, fun café. You might, however, not want to order a coffee if you’re in a hurry as the crew tends to take their time.QB-2, Stationsstraat 49, tel. (+31) 138 50 50 00. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. (€10). J DE HAVENMEESTER Located in the heart of the Piushaven, this is the place to go for a cup of coffee and a newspaper on a terrace with a great view of the harbour. The menu isn’t what we’d call exciting, but the food is good, especially the desserts. Try the syrup mousse.QJ-6, Kempenaarplaats 156, tel. (+31) 138 22 82 00, info@havenmeestertilburg.nl, www. havenmeestertilburg.nl. Open 11:00 - 24:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon. (€9 - 14). TB FAHRENHEIT Hidden in the Dwaalgebied, this small, cosy living room/ bar offers an ever-changing menu that can be found on the large chalkboard on the back wall. If you’re in the mood for a drink with some tasty snacks, then you’ve come to the right place. The menu may be a bit limited, but the atmosphere is inspiring. View exhibitions by local artists, listen to guest DJs at the weekend or just drop by when the owner plays old school vinyl from ska to 1970s New York punk.QB-2, Tuinstraat 55, tel. (+31) 135 35 44 22, info@fahrenheit-tilburg.nl, www.fahrenheittilburg.nl. Open 11:00 - 18:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (€2 - 7). JGW FROZI YOGI Frozi Yogi guarantees a guilt-free snack on the Heuvelstraat. Choose from several different frozen yoghurt flavours and then add more toppings to complete your personal frozi. You can also try the homemade brownies, which definitely aren’t healthy, but really hit the spot!QB-3, Heuvelstraat 118, tel. (+31) 626 21 00 27, www.froziyogi.nl. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Thu 12:00 - 21:00.

Closed Mon, Tue. JS

Discover one of the many lunchrooms in central Tilburg

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Cafés

KRAS2 You can’t walk past this sandwich shop without noticing it. The enormous ILLY coffee cup and the memorable delivery bicycles that stand outside the door will definitely grab your attention. The room smells of super simple, yet delicious sandwiches, whose fillings are often of Italian origin. Your order will be prepared right in front of you in the open kitchen, but you could always try a fresh piece of pie or buy something to prepare at home.QC-3, Willem II straat 27, tel. (+31) 135 44 40 42, www.kras2.nl.

Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (€2 - 7). JGS MUSEUMCAFÉ If all of the exhibits in the three-storey Museum of Nature have exhausted you or if you just want to take a moment to compose yourself after seeing the imposing elephant genitalia conserved in formaldehyde you can take a break at the museum’s spacious and modern café. If you prefer simplicity you can prepare your own slices of bread or have a plate of poffertjes (tiny pancakes), but we opted for the large salmon sandwich. The luxurious red couches and the large number of magazines and books will convince you to linger a little longer than planned and when the weather cooperates you also can sit outside. You don’t have to be a museum visitor to take advantage of the café.QB-1, Spoorlaan 434, tel. (+31) 135 35 39 35, www. natuurmuseumbrabant.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (€3 - 6). TJULBW facebook.com/inyourpocket

ZOETE ZAKEN This is a shop where it always smells like heaven. Unleash your inner sugar freak with fresh cupcakes, brownies and chocolate cakes, which are made from scratch every day.

The counter is full of cakes and other tasty delights and you can also order a cup of tea or coffee with the cake of the day. When the weather cooperates, you can sit outside in the garden .QB-2, Tuinstraat 61, tel. (+31) 650 89 84 86, zoetezaken@ziggo.nl, www.zoete-zaken.nl.

Open 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. (€2 - 5).

HIGH TEA MUGS & MUFFINS ‘A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand’ is its motto and Mugs & Muffins lives by it. Shoppers come here by the bucket load to enjoy hot drinks and home made pastries. Starbucks pales by comparison with this Tilburg favourite. Take a seat near the front window for people watching or in the back for a view of a wellmaintained city garden. If you’re in luck, you might find a seat in one of the two wonderful arm-chairs. Every season three new drinks appear on the menu, which are perfectly in tune with the winter chill or a summer breeze.QC-3, Willem II straat 57, tel. (+31) 135 90 45 85, www.mugsandmuffins.nl. Open 08:00 - 19:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 08:00 - 22:00, Sat 09:00 18:00. Closed Sun. (€2 - 7). JG April 2015 - March 2016

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Nightlife Tilburg’s brilliant nightlife scene includes dimly lit jazz and blues bars, groovy strip clubs, cosy pubs and a vibrant underground music scene. Although closing times are strictly regulated, some bars and pubs stay open until the last group of customers have stumbled out. Most night spots are concentrated around the area by Old Town square, with the Korte Heuvel and the nearby Piusplein being all-time favourites of locals and students. The town is small enough to cover on foot, though as the night gets longer, so does the distance between places. Some places refuse entrance to anyone in scruffy jeans and trainers, so make a bit of an effort before going out to the glitzier venues.

BARS DE KORENBLOEM De Korenbloem is located at Tilburg’s busiest intersection and yet you hear little of the traffic rushing by on its spacious terrace. Due to the many offices and businesses located in the vicinity, the crowds mostly come in for lunch or after work. Suits, ties and scarfs of both genders come to this old-fashioned cocktail bar to unwind, especially at the end of their exhausting week. The evening menu will definitely fill you up, especially the tasty Argentinian steak, but there’s limited seating inside. Fortunately, in summer the sliding doors are opened up and the terrace tempts hungry or thirsty passers-by.QH-5, Bredaseweg 261, tel. (+31) 134 63 39 80, www.stapperijdekorenbloem.nl.

Open 12:00 - 00:00, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 15:00 - 00:00. (€11 - 16). LGBKX DE SLIJTERIJ On the way to the toilet you’ll pass images of Dolly, Aretha and Miss Ross at least four times so you can probably guess what the DJs play here. De Slijterij is a pub of contradictions.

While you can still smell the freshly papered walls, the clientele look like they’ve been dancing here since the beginning of time. The imposing display of spirits and expensive champagnes is in stark contrast to the minimalist style of the pub.

De Slijterij is a favourite among the older generations who dance their weekly waltz on the spotless floor.QD-3, Heuvel 42, tel. (+31) 135 36 22 46, www.cafedeslijterij.nl. Open 17:00 - 01:00, Mon, Wed, Thu 17:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 04:00. Closed Tue. JGBX

Tilburg is musical city with its Rock Academy and many music schools

28 Tilburg In Your Pocket

SYMBOL KEY A Accepts credit cards P Air conditioning O Casino

I Fireplace

V Home delivery

E Live music

J Old town location B Outside seating 6 Pets allowed

X Smoking section

S Takeaway

W Wifi

EXTASE Extase was formerly known by the more alternative crowd , but nowadays attracts a wider audience. On Monday you will find acoustic performances here, comedy nights on Wednesdays and Thursdays you are treated to some great live performances.QD-2, Heuvelring 112, tel. (+31) 135 42 25 67, www.cafeextase.nl. Open 19:00 - 04:00, Tue 19:00 - 02:00, Wed 19:00 - 03:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGX HAVANA The cosy, colourful benches on the Heuvel look inviting and the cocktails Havana serves are delicious and reasonably priced. Best of all, this winning combination puts one in mind of lazy summer days during the dark and wintry months. On Saturdays you can even dance away the chill with warm and sultry sounds. The menu is also impressive, especially the fajitas, tiritas and tasty Cubanos, but we still prefer the Steenburger. The food is well presented and unlike many restaurants in Tilburg, Havana uses locally grown ingredients.QD-2, Heuvel 22, tel. (+31) 135 36 53 24, www.havana-tilburg.nl. Open 10:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00, Sun 10:00 - 02:00. (€15 - 22). JBX KAREL Drop by Karel to read a newspaper with a cup of coffee or to strike up a conversation with people on shopping breaks and business types in suits. The menu offers typical international food like steaks, spareribs and pasta, but it’s one of the few pubs in Tilburg that has a smoking room at the front. The sun room affords you great views of the Heuvel and in spring and summer there’s a large outdoor seating area that’s perfect for people watching.QD-2, Heuvel 24, tel. (+31) 135 36 92 24, www.cafekarel.nl.

Open 10:30 - 24:00. (€15 - 25). TJGBX KIM’S KROEG Kim’s Kroeg is a modern pub with a feminine touch and a trendy look. The wood floor, dark green wallpaper and 1960s-style lamps provide a pleasant atmosphere for an evening of drinks. You can also often spot live performances by young local artists and singer-songwriters on its small stage.QD-3, Piusplein 61, tel. (+31) 138 22 84 14, welkom@kimskroeg.nl, www.kimskroeg.nl. Open 20:00 - 01:00, Thu 16:00 - 01:00, Fri 16:00 - 02:00, Sat 15:00 - 02:00, Sun 15:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon. JGB tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Nightlife LE CLOCHARD You don’t need to wander around Tilburg long to find a party pub but if you want to find one of the best then head over to Le Clochard. It’s always busy here, and if it isn’t, that means it’s closed. There’s nothing in between. On Friday afternoon you’ll find a queue of about 50 teenagers outside and all the local students come here for shelter. The walls of Le Clochard curve inward with an occasional porthole so it feels like you’re dancing in a submarine, which can of course lead to seasickness. Or was it just too many drinks?QC-3, Heuvel 16, tel. (+31) 135 35 76 60, www.leclochard.nl. Open 21:00 - 04:00, Fri 14:00 - 04:00, Sun 20:00 - 04:00.

Closed Mon, Wed. JGX STUDIO TILBURG What came first: modern man in Tilburg or a pub in Tilburg for modern people? Nobody knew that Tilburg could be so trendy until Studio opened its doors. It has been a catwalk for fashion-conscious people in their twenties and thirties, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night ever since. Of course this is supported by the trendy - and really good - music played by the DJ. Nowhere else in the city do people dance so well as here, but this is no surprise considering the many dance academy students in attendance.QD-3, Heuvel 7 - 9, tel. (+31) 135 43 60 16, www. studio-tilburg.com. Open 10:00 - 04:00, Mon, Sun 10:00 - 02:00. (€14 - 19). JGBKX ‘T VATICAAN In the middle of Rome you’ll find the enclave of Vatican City, but since 1994, this vibrant pub with a similar name has been an enclave of fun in the centre of Tilburg. On Friday nights, young and old rock the place to great beats and twice a week (on Mondays and Wednesdays) you can sit down to dinner. There’s no menu so you just choose whatever’s on offer that day. In summer, the wonderful, spacious terrace beneath an ancient tree is the place to be.QD-3, Heuvel 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 79 47, www. cafevaticaan.nl. Open 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 04:00. PJGBX

TRADITIONAL BARS BET KOLEN Everyone in Tilburg knows this 100-year-old bar whose founder, Bet Kolen, was born in 1896. Although it was unusual for a woman to start a pub at that time, everybody used to visit Bet’s and she offered many drinkers a home away from home. In 2011 the pub still has the same name and the same values: pay attention to the guests and make sure everybody has a good time. The building consists of three parts. Up front there’s a bar, next a large room which functions as a party centre followed by a busy hall in which men play darts and billiards on one of 18 dartboards and 16 pool tables.QI-6, Broekhovenseweg 111, tel. (+31) 135 42 28 60, www.betkolen.nl. Open 12:30 - 02:00, Tue 17:00 - 02:00, Fri 12:30 - 03:00, Sat 12:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00. GX facebook.com/inyourpocket

Cafe De Bakker focuses on dutch craft beer

LAMBIEK What makes this pub named after a popular Belgian comic strip character so special, apart from its excellent location directly opposite the Wilhelmina Park, is that there’s always something going on. Lambiek organises live acts, jam sessions or workshops on an almost daily basis and it’s an ideal place to go after a visit to Tilburg’s two largest museums only a stone’s throw away. We personally keep coming back for the 40 or more speciality beers it serves.

QI-5, Wilhelminapark 66, tel. (+31) 135 36 43 51, www. kaffeelambiek.nl. Open 16:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 00:00. EG

BEER BARS CAFÉ BAKKER This bar has placed an emphasis on local Dutch beers and the interior consists of coarse wood and stone. Its raw and industrial, yet somehow cosy owing to its many nooks and niches. Two large beer tanks attached to brass chains can be found at the bar and this fits in perfectly with the rough atmosphere at Cafe Bakker. Order a beer from a local microbrewery at this café named after local baker Van Erven who once lived in the building. A great addition to the Tilburg nightlife scene.QD-3, Heuvel 44-45, tel. (+31) 138 89 74 44, info@cafebakker.nl, www.cafebakker.nl.

Open 12:00 - 02:00, Tue 14:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 04:00. Closed Mon. (€9 - 14). JGBK CAFÉ HOEGAARDEN This café named after the delicious milky beer calls itself the Best Beer Pub in Tilburg and in capital letters no less. The latest owners took over at the end of 2011 and still have to prove themselves given such local competition as Kadinsky and Buitenbeentje (Maverick). That said, the big bar looks fantastic with its many stained-glass windows, wood panelling and original tile work and the toasted sandwiches made with Turkish flat bread are excellent, but it still has to work on that characteristic Belgian ambience to win over the locals.

Don’t leave without trying the heavenly taste of an Urthel Samaranth brew.QD-3, Piusplein 2, tel. (+31) 137 20 06 22, www.hoegaardentilburg.nl. Open 11:00 - 24:00, Mon 12:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri 11:00 - 02:00, Sat 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. (€15 - 20). PTJGBK April 2015 - March 2016

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Nightlife CLUBS

LOUNGES & COCKTAIL BARS

EPIC The tremendous amount of smoke which is blown into the club and which, combined with the light, muddles your vision somewhat is a bit of a turn off, but this is more than made up for by the games attached to the urinals in the gents. Don’t worry. No touchscreens are involved. Just try and hit as many penguins as possible with the snowboard controlled by your pee stream: guaranteed fun. And you’ll have plenty of opportunity to practice as there’s lots to drink at a number of different bars in the club.QD-2, Heuvelring 116, tel. (+31) 13822 67 84, www.epictilburg.nl. Open Thu, Fri, Sat 22:00 - 04:00.

Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. J

DE LIVING Tucked away behind Café Anvers on the Oude Markt, you’ll find the entrance to De Living. The relaxed owners have done their best to create a good blend of retro design and modern cosiness. You can sip a cocktail with your sweetheart on the leather couches or play a game of table football with your mates. Enjoy a drink, some finger food or perhaps some chit-chat with one of the locals. An indoor smoking room is also available for anyone who still hasn’t kicked the habit.QB-3, Oude Markt 8, www.deliving.nl.

Open 15:00 - 00:00. Closed Mon. JG

GAY & LESBIAN DE WIJN As the owners of De Wijn are lesbians, this pub has been labelled a lesbian bar. However, while there are many lesbian customers, everyone is welcome here. To describe its interior just think of Moulin Rouge with lots of glitter and glamour, frills, and the well-known red and black colour scheme. Unlike many other pubs, beer isn’t the beverage of choice here. You’ll notice this instantly by the strong liquor hanging behind the bar and the subtle sweet scent in the air.QC-3, Stadhuisstraat 17, tel. (+31) 135 44 51 18, www.dewijn.nl. Open , Thu, Fri 20:00 - 04:00, Sat 16:00 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed.

LIVE MUSIC CUL DE SAC Cul de Sac has established itself as a lounge for an alternative crowd with a more evolved taste in music. It’s the place to be for ‘new hippies’ and young artists, musicians and other creative minds who like to have a beer or a Jack Daniel’s in the pub area. Students from the Rock Academy show off their newly learned skills in the dance pit at the back of the room, while the crowds go wild on a wide selection of music, as this is what separates Cul de Sac from other pubs in Tilburg. ‘Look Out! Dancing in Progress!’ is written above the pit.QD-3, Heuvel 48, tel. (+31) 135 81 01 10, www.culdesac.nl. Open 15:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. JGBX L!VE MUSIC BAR The whole weekend is one big party Tilburg’s only proper piano bar. As soon as you cross the threshold there’s no other option but to swing along with the rest of the crowd.

Only a few meters from the front door you’ll find a stage with a white piano, a drum kit and - with a bit of luck a saxophone played by professionals and the incredibly long bar is also designed to like a keyboard. The toilets are located in an enormous vault, which isn’t that surprising when one considers that this building was once used as a bank.QD-2, Heuvelring 90, tel. (+31) 135 42 65 92, www.livemusicbar.nl. Open 20:00 - 04:00, Fri, Sat 18:00 - 04:00. PJUEGBKX 30 Tilburg In Your Pocket

T KWADRAAT Tilburg has recently become a real sports town and the opening of the ‘T Kwadraat sports centre is a perfect example of this trend. No less than three different pubs and restaurants are housed in this industrial-style facility including the Eatery (Het eetcafé), the Après-ski bar and the Lounge. All three are decent enough places to eat a burger or schnitzel or to drink a glass of wine, but they’re not exactly the height of fashion (especially the Lounge) and are better suited as places to enjoy a Wieckse Witte draught beer with friends after a hard workout.

QI-6, Marathonpromenade 383, tel. (+31) 135 81 28 84, www.horecatkwadraat.nl. Open 09:30 - 01:00.

THAUFLGKXW

MIDNIGHT MUNCHIES KARNAK Once you arrive on Tilburg’s main pub street, Korte Heuvel, Karnak will lure you in. The strip light over the electrical sliding doors, the camp neon lights in the windows and the loud slogans on the façade are like a siren’s song. It’s not the best kebab we’ve had, but no one, especially after a dozen beers, complains about the quality of the greasy Turkish pizza. Everyone’s just happy that it’s open so late and is located so centrally. Ideal for getting a head start on doing something about tomorrow’s hangover.QHeuvel 6, tel. (+31) 135 44 13 96, www.karnak-tilburg.nl. Open 16:00 - 02:15, Thu, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 04:15. JVGBS

Tilburg is alive from Tuesday to Sunday, even at night

tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Nightlife POOL & BILLIARDS POOLCENTRUM 4 FRIENDS This is a classic pool hall with lots of pool and snooker tables, dart boards, good background music and room enough for both amateurs and sharks. You can also take lessons here.QH-5, Koestraat 144, tel. (+31) 135 44 22 81, www.poolcentrum4friends.nl. Open 12:00 - 01:00, Fri 12:00 - 02:00, Sat 13:00 - 02:00, Sun 13:00 - 01:00. JU

PUBS DE BARET Visit the oldest building on the Piusplein and order the ‘best lager in Europe’, which apparently is Maes beer. In the summer it offers a pleasant outdoor terrace, but in the winter months you’ll have to settle for indoor imbibing. The name is a reference to the hat shop that was once located in the building, so see if you spot small details from that bygone era on the facade and in the bar itself.QD-3, Piusplein 3, www.cafedebaret.nl. Open 16:00 - 04:00, Thu 18:00 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. (€2 - 7). JGB RUBY’S IRISH PUB Any self-respecting city has an Irish pub and the best ones are run by real Irishmen. Here you won´t find a local teenage disco, just Guinness, sports and a dark and cosy interior, the way an Irish pub is supposed to be. Outside, you’ll no doubt also spot the Irish saying on the canopy which reads ‘Cead Mile Failte’ or ‘a hundred thousand welcomes’.

Inviting enough for you?QD-3, Paleisring 19, tel. (+31) 138 22 86 69. Open 16:00 - 01:00, Thu, Fri 16:00 - 03:00, Sat 12:00 - 03:00, Sun 12:00 - 01:00. (€4 - 9). JG

BEST LOCAL BEERS Holland is an excellent place to find unique, delicious beers. Every region has its own special brands and flavours and we’ve made a list of our favourite local brews in case you need a little help deciding what to drink. These beers are brewed exclusively in the Tilburg area and can be bought at the better beer and liquor shops in the city. So if you want a taste of genuine Dutch beer, skip the cold green stuff for a change and taste the real deal.

La Trappe Quadrupel: a complex, superior, genuine Trappist beer.

La Trappe Tripel: a fruity, spicy tripel.

Tilburgs Proatwoater Tripel: a creamy, fruity tripel.

De Roos Bikse Tripel: a little sweet, yet hoppy.

Beerze Bier: a blonde beer that’s nearly a tripel.

De Roos Konjel: fruity and spicy.

Torens Wapen: a, easy to drink copper-blond beer.

Tilburgs Stadsbier Wervelend Wit: a genuine, fullflavoured wheat beer, that’s quite refreshing.

Zundert: the latest Trappist brew is a spicy tripel.

STUDENT CLUBS BOEKANIER The ambiguous slogan ‘Pijpen? Een Euro!’ has put De Boekanier on the map among students. ‘Pijpen’ for which one euro is charged could refer to anything from pipes, narrow glasses or bottles of beer to a blow job. In this case, it’s not the latter. The slogan in fact refers to a narrow glass of Jupiler beer which can be purchased for only €1.10 on Thursdays.QC-3, Stadhuisstraat 11, tel. (+31) 135 43 19 03, www.cafedeboekanier.nl. Open 19:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri 15:00 - 04:00, Sat 14:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. JGBX PHILIP To many students in Tilburg, Café Philip is like a second living room. On the ground floor the bookworms dance like sardines in a tin to Top 40 beats, which can be requested through an English pay phone booth. One floor down you’ll find a pub where you can be your own DJ, but nothing beats the top floor. When you have danced yourself into a sweat and have loaded up on beer, you can stagger upstairs to get your coat and a greasy snack from the wall. There’s nothing like a Dutch croquette at 04:00!QD-3, Heuvel 38, tel. (+31) 135 80 03 61, www.cafephilip.nl. Open 20:00 - 04:00, Tue 19:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JBX facebook.com/inyourpocket

WINE BARS CORTON This cozy little bar is the place to have a drink with some friends. The bartender will pour you one of the 25 wines on the menu.QB3, Heuvelstraat 139, www.wijnbarcorton. nl. Open 15:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 00:00. J SQUARE Heartbroken? Square is the place for you. The saccharine voices of Celine Dion and Whitney Houston commiserate with your heartache from the loudspeakers, the precarious tiles on the ceiling look like they might release you from your pain at any moment and the view of the side of the McDonald’s and bus station is guaranteed to depress. On the other hand, the affordable prices, friendly service and delicious snacks make up for many of these shortcomings.

All this modern looking place needs are a couple of lounge chairs and you’ll be able to take your next date here! Hopefully your ex will be somewhere else.QD-3, Heuvelpoort 324, tel. (+31) 135 36 53 71, www.squaretilburg.nl. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu, Fri 09:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. (€5 - 10). PJBW April 2015 - March 2016

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Sightseeing Tilburg has more history and more old buildings than most Dutch people are aware of. Indeed, there may not be any canals with accompanying canalside houses like they have them in Utrecht and Amsterdam, and no prehistoric megaliths like in Drenthe. But Tilburg still has many old things which grace the town. Tilburg especially owes King William II and Pater Donders much for the tourist attractions they left behind. And there are also plenty of amusement parks in the area with Efteling being number one, followed by Beekse Bergen, Oliemeulen and Dierenpark Nuenen.

SYMBOL KEY

6 Pets allowed

X Smoking section

ESSENTIAL TILBURG

S Takeaway

W Wifi

KONINGSHOEVEN ABBEY If you think that only monks live in silence and spend the whole day praying, take a look at the Trappist farm Onze Lieve Vrouw van Koningshoeven. Here they’ve been working hard every day brewing one of Europe’s best beers since 1884. This is still the most important source of income for the monastery, partially thanks to exports to the United States where the beer is sold under the name of ‘Koningshoeven Trappist Ale’. Nine special beers are brewed here under the close supervision of the clergymen themselves.

Visitors will get a great impression of the whole brewing process in an audiovisual tour or a proper guided tour of the abbey where 16 monks between the ages of 24 to 81 live and work. Even if you don’t like beer, you’ll still enjoy a visit, as the peaceful surroundings and the impressive complex with its characteristic towers are certainly worth a look.QJ-5, Eindhovenseweg 3, tel. (+31) 135 40 85 08, www.koningshoeven.nl. Open 11:00 - 19:00. K

BUILDINGS & SQUARES 013 Pop Stage 013 is a combination of three concert halls and is the largest music temple in southern Holland. The large Dommelsch Hall alone can offer space for at least 2,200 visitors. The building itself stands out because of the round shapes on its exterior that make it look like it’s covered with hundreds of CDs. 013 is conveniently located right on Korte Heuvel, which means that many of the bands that play here have a beer or whisky in one of the nearby cafés after a gig. The Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Moby and members of Faithless have all been spotted at pubs and clubs not far from here.QD-2, Veemarktstraat 44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95 00, www.013.nl. PJUEGX

The nearby Trappist cloister is a true gem

32 Tilburg In Your Pocket

A Accepts credit cards P Air conditioning O Casino

I Fireplace

V Home delivery

E Live music

J Old town location B Outside seating

FONTYS ROCK ACADEMY Fontys Rock Academy is but one of the six academies that comprise the Fontys School of Fine and Performing Arts.

Students receive ‘higher vocational education’ in pop music here. The academy has brought forth a number of well-known Dutch pop musicians including the rock band Krezip, Leaf and Intwine. The distinctive building itself is worth a visit.QC-4, Zwijsenplein 1, tel. (+31) 877 87 41 66, www.rockacademie.nl. PJHREW KING WILLEM II STADIUM The stadium where Tilburg’s William II professional football club plays has only existed in its current form since 1995. At the time it was a state of the art building, as most Dutch stadia were standing room only prior to its completion. The club itself was founded 100 years earlier and was once quite prestigious. In fact, William II was the first Dutch professional club and it won the league in the first year, a feat they only managed on two other occasions.

The team has been relegated to the first division and the stadium is now considered to be rather outdated, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re in town and into the beautiful game. A number of exhibitions detail the glory days of old and if you ask the right person, you’ll be able to have a look inside the stadium.QI-6, Goirleseweg 34, tel. (+31) 135 49 05 90, www.willem-ii.nl. Open 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. HL PALACE-TOWN HALL Many Tilburg wedding photos have been taken on the stairs of the Palace-Town Hall. King William II had the place built in 1847 as a country retreat in his favourite town, but he diedin 1849 only 22 days before its completion. In 1864 the Rijks Hogere Burger school was established in the palace and its most famous student was none other than Vincent van Gogh, who studied there for two years. In the south wing of the palace you’ll find a reconstruction of Vincent’s art room.

Between the years 1934 and 1936 it was converted into the Town Hall. As the building had several purposes throughout the years, there’s not much left of the original design. Windows were replaced and the entrance has been decorated in Art Deco style. Today it’s part of the Town Hall and it’s connected by a footbridge to the black box. QC-4, Stadhuisplein 130. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Sightseeing THEATRES TILBURG (SCHOUWBURG) Voted one of the most beautiful buildings in the Netherlands by a group of four leading Dutch architects in 2009, this theatre is literally ‘a brick ode to the sixties’. The edifice perfectly fits its surroundings and still has a modern look despite its age. Naturally a lot of rebuilding and renovating has taken place throughout the years, but much of the decor is still from the 1960s, such as the benches that were designed by the architect Bijvoet.QB-4, Louisbouwmeesterplein 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 22 20, www.theaterstilburg.nl. J TILBURG UNIVERSITY Tilburg University started in 1927 with 28 students as the Roomsch Katholieke Handelshoogeschool (Catholic Trade School). Today you can choose from a wide range of studies. It offers over twenty bachelors and 50 masters programs. The number of students has increased to 12,000 and over 1,500 employees work at the school. The quality of scientific research and education is high, which is evident in the excellent position of the university in international rankings. And did you know that this is the only university in the Netherlands with its own train station?

Tilburg University station is within walking distance of the campus, in the west of Tilburg. Even if you are not studying or working on campus it’s well worth a visit. The buildings are within walking distance of each other in a typical park-like setting. From the upper floors you can take in the view of the surrounding greenery and the Tilburg skyline.

You’ll also find that many of the students and faculty are from abroad. So meet some new people and invite them for a cup of coffee at Starbucks or one of the other restaurants on campus. And if you’re interested in current events in the fields of science and social studies, visit one of the lectures and symposia on campus.QH-5, Warandelaan 2, tel. (+31) 134 66 91 11, www.tilburguniversity.edu.

Open 07:30 - 18:30. Closed Sat, Sun. GKW WESTPOINT The sixth tallest building in Holland was built in Tilburg in 2004. Westpoint measures an impressive 143m in height, which is less than 22 meters shorter than the Maastoren in Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ tallest edifice. Hundreds of people live and work in this colourful concrete colossus, which can be seen from several kilometres away due to its frequent use of distinctive light sources. The 47m-tower contains 154 apartments.QI-5, Hart van Brabantlaan.

The Palace-Town Hall is a Neo-Gothic monument

34 Tilburg In Your Pocket

CHURCHES HASSELT CHAPEL This chapel is located on a small square and dates back to 1536. The statue of Mary was added to the chapel in 1796 and now the church organises an open day during celebrations honouring Mary. This small house of prayer has had several functions over the years from a weaver’s house and a guest house to an emergency hospital. These days the charming chapel is mainly used as a place to get married, although a prayer service is held once a month.

QH-5, Hasseltplein, tel. (+31) 134 68 10 89, www. hasseltsekapel.nl. Open 09:00 - 19:00.

ST. DIONYSOS CHURCH The present Church of St. Dionysius, popularly known as Heikese Church, was completed in 1826. Its style is neoclassical and inside you’ll find pillars with Ionian capitals. The tower is the only remaining authentic part of the original 15th-century Gothic church, which makes it the oldest church in Tilburg. Due to the ‘new’ bricks that were added in 1895, the tower actually seems to be newer than the rest of the building. The Heikese Church also has two 15th-century candleholders and a 17th-century painting in its possession.QC-3, Stadhuisstraat 370. Open Sat 18:30 - 20:00, Sun 10:30 - 12:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri. J ST. JOSEPH’S CHURCH St. Joseph’s Church, which people in Tilburg often refer to as Heuvelse Church, is a neo-Gothic cross-shaped basilica with three transepts. The church, which was designed by Hendrik van Tulder, was built between 1872 and 1889. The two octagonal 72m-high towers at the front stand out and make this church the fourth highest building in Tilburg. The church displays many influences from the French Gothic period as well as St. John’s Cathedral in Den Bosch. In the 1950s the transept was extended. The main organ as well as the choir organ and the church itself are national monuments.QD-2, Heuvelring 122. Open 08:00 - 18:30. J ST. PAUL’S CHURCH This neoclassical style octagonal St. Paul’s Church was originally built in 1822 as a protestant house of worship. A much older pipe organ from 1765 was later placed in the church and is still there to be admired. King William I of Holland visited the church only once, but King Willem ll of Holland visited the church whenever he stayed in Tilburg.

In 2004 it was thoroughly renovated and both the church and the organ are now considered to be national monuments. These days St. Paul’s belongs to an IndonesianDutch Christian congregation.QB-3, Heuvelstraat 141, www.pkn-tilburg.nl. J tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Sightseeing MODERN ARCHITECTURE AVANS HOGESCHOOL The thousands of students who climb the stairs to their unique school building every day probably take its unusual architecture for granted. Anyone else who takes the trouble to have a closer look at Avans Hogeschool will most likely be impressed when first faced with this gigantic concrete colossus. The bright green façade and the entrance with its wide stairs are uncommon to Dutch architecture. If you ignore the colours you could even imagine this building gracing an enormous freedom square in some obscure city in North Korea or China. Once inside, space prevails and you can see through the entire building from front to back. What seem to be empty spaces and wide passages are actually effective meeting points for students.QCobbenhagenlaan 13, www.avans.nl.

MONUMENTS MONUMENT TO THE 15TH SCOTTISH DIVISION This monument was erected in honour of the 15th Scottish Division. This division of the Scottish army liberated Tilburg from German occupation on October 27, 1944. The sculpture represents a bagpipe player.QC-4, Stadhuisplein. J THE CLOTHESPIN This monument in remembrance of the victims of World War II can be found to the right of the Central Station. It’s a bell tower with 12 small clocks, but due to its shape it’s popularly known as the ‘clothes-pin’.QC-1, Spoorlaan.

MUSEUMS BRABANT MUSEUM OF NATURE The magnificent building of Natuurmuseum Brabant houses thousands of beautiful stuffed animals, fossils, plants and insects. Although the entire museum is so child-friendly that it almost seems like it was built solely for kids, this isn’t the case. Adults will find plenty of interesting exhibits to keep them occupied. In the new OO-zone, the Ontdek en Onderzoek (Discover and Research) part of the museum, you can explore nature yourself. Compare bones or browse through one of the hundreds of books about flora and fauna. You’ll be amazed by the beautiful animals behind the glass of the high display cabinets. In addition to all this, the museum also has temporary exhibitions like ‘Moeder’s Mooiste’ (Beauty is in the eye of the beholder), where you can learn about exotic animals. Discover how a humming bird uses its beak as a pipette and how a giraffe can have a neck of up to 160cm in length. One of the permanent exhibitions is ‘Brabant in de Ban van Buiten’ (Brabant under the spell of the outdoors). Here you explore the diverse flora and fauna that make the Brabant region so special.QB-2, Spoorlaan 434, tel. (+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Adults: €7, children 4 - 17: €5. TJAGK facebook.com/inyourpocket

MONUMENTAL STREETS This charming part of Tilburg’s city centre has special appeal. The old houses and wide pavements offer plenty of space for pedestrians to explore the area and cars are mere guests. This unique part of Tilburg will no doubt seduce you with its many different shops, galleries and museums that are all located on these narrow, monumental streets. On your way you’ll pass a number of small restaurants and cafés and you can stop and enjoy one of the area’s many courtyards and gardens. Don’t forget to look up now and again to admire the remarkable facades, many of which have been completely restored.

DE PONT De Pont combines the history of Tilburg with art. Since 1992 this former wool mill has served as an exhibition space for numerous works by contemporary artists. The natural light in the large hall illuminates the pieces in all their glory. The so-called wool cages house small rooms where you can see even more works of art. There are temporary exhibitions and the permanent exhibition contains works by Charlotte Dumas, Anton Henning, Wolfgang Laib, Steve McQueen and Giuseppe Penone.QI-5, Wilhelminapark 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 83 00, www.depont.nl.

THE TEXTIELMUSEUM The modern TextielMuseum located at the Goirkestraat offers a fabulous look into the rich history of textiles in the city of Tilburg. It offers inspiring exhibitions in the area of design, art and heritage and the adjacent TextielLab is a unique centre of knowledge and expertise where knitted and woven fabrics are manufactured. Its workshop emphasizes innovation, so you can learn the latest trends.

Both domestic and internationally renowned designers, including well-established names like Jan Taminiau, have had the TextielMuseum manufacture their fabrics or at least used the museum’s expertise in the area of yarn, techniques and crafts. The permanent museum collection as well as the temporary exhibitions offer not just a great afternoon out, but also a great boost to one’s creative processes.QL-6, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31) 135 36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Admission: adults €8, children 13 - 18 years €3.50, children 7 - 12 years €2.50, children 6 and under free. TULGBKW April 2015 - March 2016

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Sightseeing VINCENT’S ART ROOM At the age of 13, Vincent van Gogh arrived at Tilburg as a student at the Rijks HBS Koning Willem II school, the current Paleis-Raadhuis. Vincent took his first drawing lessons there. His teacher was the famous C.C. Huijsmans. It is said that here he made a drawing of two farmers, leaning on a shovel. The development of talent is central in Vincents Art Room. History and the newest techniques come together in the building where Vincent took his first steps into the world of art. There is a museum space where you can see a recreation of Vincents art room (including a school picture of the then-young painter) and you can find a 21st century drawing room, fully equipped with state of the art drawing computers. Vincents Art Room offers their, mostly young, visitors the opportunity to develop their drawing skills with Vincent van Gogh as their inspiration. So give it a try and maybe you’ll be Tilburgs next big painter! You can visit the museum individually or with a group during opening hours. .QC-4, Stadhuisplein 128, tel. (+31) 135 42 91 97, www.vincentstekenlokaal.nl. Open 13:00 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJ

PARKS & CEMETERIES BREDASEWEG CEMETERY The best-known cemetery in Tilburg is Roman Catholic and dates from 1828. A number of distinct, white cast-iron statues seem to guard the graveyard on the side facing the street. Many special tombstones can be found in the cemetery itself, like Marietje Kessels’. She was murdered in 1900, aged 11. Her body was found in the archway of the Sacred Heart Church which was demolished in 1975.

The murderer was never found, but many people suspect it must have been somebody associated with the church.

QA-3, Bredaseweg 45. Open 09:00 - 21:30.

HELGA DEEN GARDEN & TILBURG SYNAGOGUE Helga Deen is essentially the Tilburg version of Anne Frank.

There’s a little park in the centre of town named after this Jewish girl who kept a diary during her incarceration in an SS-concentration camp (National Monument Camp Vught).

There are only a few bushes, some shrubbery, nine small chairs and several Stars of David in the paving stones, but this 16m2 park wasn’t created at random. Whoever comes here can have a moment of silence to contemplate a dark chapter in Dutch history.QC-2, Willem II straat 20. J OUDE WARANDE This is the only remaining ‘star forest’ and one of the oldest baroque forests in The Netherlands. The German prince Wilhelm Von Hessen-Kassel had it designed in 1712.

The lanes crossing the forest come together in the centre forming a star pattern. The four different parts each have their own pattern: square, circular, diamond shape and octagonal. The forest covers 60 hectares and it boasts several works of art, including one by Rien Claessen called Inanitas, which means ‘open space’. The latest addition is Pavilion Grotto, designed by Australian artist Callum Morton. QH-5, Warandelaan.

36 Tilburg In Your Pocket

WILHELMINAPARK The Wilhelmina Park is one of the oldest parks in Tilburg.

It was designed in 1898 in romantic fashion by Leonard Springer who also designed the Wandelbos and Leijpark in the city. There’s a duck pond, open pastures and winding paths between the trees. Many students from the surrounding dorms move their books and other vital learning materials (like bottles of beer) to the park on sunny days.

QI-5, Wilhelminapark. TJ6

PLACES OF INTEREST OLD TOWN SQUARE De Heuvel is the central square in Tilburg and the most important shopping street, de Heuvelstraat, leads up to it.

In 1419 ‘den Hoevel’ was named for the first time. Until the water tower on Bredaseweg was built in 1898, Tilburgers could only get water from de Heuvel as it was the only place with a water pump. A replica of this pump can still be found on the Oude Markt. Until 1994 the square boasted an old lime tree, but despite major protests, the dead tree was finally uprooted. Wood from the tree has since been used to create the mayor’s gavel and in a tableau in the city hall. The square was completely rebuilt in 2008 and three descendants of the old lime tree were planted in prominent places in the middle of the square. De Heuvel also boasts a statue of King William II, who proudly looks over the city he loved so much.QD-2/3, Heuvelplein.

SIGHTSEEING TOURS STADSGIDSERIJ If you want to discover Tilburg with a professional guide, you can sign up for a tour from the Stadsgidserij. You can book various walks, such as the centre walk, the centre west walk (which includes a visit to the cemetery on the Bredaseweg), the hasselt walk (where the Tilburg Castle once stood), the art walk, the architecture walk and the culinary walk. Walks in various other neighbourhoods of Tilburg that have rich histories are also possible. Whichever route you choose you’re guaranteed a fun, informative walk and you’ll discover places that you would have never found by yourself. The walks don’t take place every day so visit its website for exact times and dates.Qwww. stadsgidserij.nl.

The Oude Warande is great for relaxing the senses

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Sightseeing KING WILLIAM II

The Jug Pisser (Kruikenzeiker) is a local legend

STATUES THE JUG PISSER This small statue was designed by Henk Smulders and erected in 1986. The sculptor is also known for the many statues he created for The Efteling theme park. The sculpture honours Tilburg’s past textile industry. The residents of Tilburg used to save their urine in jugs, which was then used to wash wool in the factories, hence the Jug Pisser.

QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat. J WILLEM II STATUE The municipality of Tilburg bought this statue in 1924 from The Hague and gave it a prominent place on De Heuvel.

The statue represents King William II as commander-inchief of the army. On the pedestal beneath the royal there are four figures. The woman with a crown and sceptre represents the monarchy. To her right sits Law. On the backside there is Prosperity, complete with the Horn of Plenty and coins. The last figure originally held a palladium, a figurine of the deity of ancient Troy. This refers to the role of William II as patron of the Netherlands. On the right side of the pedestal is a lion with a sword between his front paws, which represents the battles in which William II took part.QD-2, Heuvel.

ZOOS DE OLIEMEULEN This house of reptiles isn’t for the faint hearted. You’ll see tarantulas, piranhas, tiger pythons and crocodiles. It’s a large building with a number of departments and the front section of the farmhouse displays all kinds of special frogs in bright colours. A little further on, you’ll arrive at the chameleons, adders and snapping turtles and spiders and snakes can be found in the attic. Monkeys, meerkats and parrots are housed in the enormous garden and on busy days and on weekends there’s an impressive presentation of birds of prey. The house of reptiles displays informative signs next to each cage, but, sadly, only in Dutch. If you have similar pets you can buy live beetles, spiders and particularly fat maggots here to feed your snake or frog at home.QH-5, Reitse Hoevenstraat 30, tel. (+31) 134 63 00 26, www.oliemeulen.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00. facebook.com/inyourpocket

If anybody ever left his mark on Tilburg, it’s King William ll. ‘’This is where I can breathe freely and feel happy’’, he once declared about the town in which he regularly stayed until his death in 1849. Tilburg is proud of this statement and often honours it. The football team, and its stadium, were named after him, as well as the prison and a secondary school.

His statue dominates the city’s main square and references to this King who thought highly of Tilburg can be found in many places. He even had a palace built here!

Williem Frederik George Lodewijk was born in 1792 in The Hague to William I and Wilhelmina van Pruisen.

He fought in the Prussian and English armies and in 1815 he became heir to the throne. As an English general he took part in the famous battle that became Napoleon’s demise and returned from the battlefield a ‘hero of Waterloo’.

In 1816 William married Anna Paulowna, the daughter of the Russian tsar Paul I. They had five children and he was rumoured to have had a number of extramarital affairs and children out of wedlock. In 1840 he ascended to the throne as William II, a conservative king who stopped every single constitutional change. The King’s power decreased in the years that followed due to revolutions in several European countries. Therefore William declared himself a liberal overnight. The constitution was rewritten by Johan Rudolph Thorbecke and Holland became a parliamentary democracy. In 1847 Willem ordered the building of a palace in Tilburg. He already stayed in the town regularly, but he wanted his own, representative home. The palace is still here, although it was renovated and changed several times over the years.

King William’s health quickly deteriorated after the death of his son Alexander. He also had problems with his eldest son, who later became William III, who strongly disagreed with the 1848 constitutional changes. In March 1849 he announced that he would retire to his beloved Tilburg. He passed away on March 17 in the presence of his wife. He was buried in the crypt of the House of Orange in Delft.

Lots more sights at www.inyourpocket.com April 2015 - March 2016

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Shopping While Tilburg isn’t exactly a shopper’s paradise in the traditional sense, its arty reputation makes it a great place to pick up antiques, artwork and jewellery. Tilburg’s most popular shopping area is the pedestrian street of De Heuvel. The city’s main department stores are also located here.

Enough patisseries and delicatessens are available along the way to recharge from any shopping spree.

BOOKSHOPS GIANOTTEN MUTSAERS This book shop, one of the city’s last, is absolutely beautiful, especially its counter in the coffee corner, which is made from the covers of hundreds of books. But a good book and a cup of coffee and stay for a delicious lunch.QC-3, Emmapassage 17, tel. (+31) 134 65 11 11, www.gianottenmutsaers.nl.

Open 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. JG

ETHNIC FOOD & DELIS SLAGERIJ KEES VAN HEST This is a butcher’s shop with an old-fashioned look, but the meat of course is fresh.QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat 47-A, tel. (+31) 135 42 22 16. Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00.

Closed Sun.

FASHION GIMBRÈRE This family-run business has been around for over 175 years. The menswear is located on the first floor and the ladies can browse through the dresses on the ground floor.

You can expect chic brands like Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Boss and Marc O’Polo.QC-3, Heuvelstraat 41, tel. (+31) 135 43 52 50, www.gimbreremode.nl. Open 09:30 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. J JAN DE COCK MODE Jan De Cock Mode is an exclusive fashion shop with wellknown brands and very friendly staff.QD-1, NS Plein 45, tel. (+31) 135 42 16 62, www.jandecockmode.nl. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 17:00.

JIMMY’S This enormous clothing shop may be for people in a higher tax bracket, but it’s still worth a peek if only to pretend that you can afford something here.QC-3, Stadhuisstraat 9, tel. (+31) 135 43 44 86, www.jimmysmode.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J RE-ISSUE Looking for the latest in fashion? Drop by this shop for your daily dose of hip sneakers, clothing and accessories. Grey concrete floors are combined with sleek white walls, which make the clothes and shoes stand out that much more.

QTelefoonstraat 41, tel. (+31) 135 44 76 64, contact@ re-issue.nl, www.re-issue.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. J 38 Tilburg In Your Pocket

GAMES & TOYS HET ZINGENDE NIJLPAARD This place only sells nostalgic wooden and tin toys. Neglected old toys are also patched up by the owner of the shop, such as spinning tops that have been fabricated in the same way since 1880.QC-3, Willem II straat 88, tel. (+31) 135 35 38 29, www.hetzingendenijlpaard.com.

Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J

GIFTS & SOUVENIRS WERELDWINKEL Wereldwinkel sells original gifts and delicious, fair-trade products from different countries and cultures. QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat 39, tel. (+31) 135 36 22 26, www. wereldwinkel-tilburg.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.

MUSIC SHOPS SOUNDS Sounds is a shop for true music purists. It specialises in indie, alternative, metal, punk, prog, symfo, blues, pop, country and other interesting music genres. Find new and used CDs and vinyl LPs as well as turntables or just drop by to watch a live band perform. Although the neighbourhood record store may be a dying breed, Sounds is still ‘Alive and Kicking’.QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat 33, tel. (+31) 135 45 60 21, www.soundstilburg.wordpress.com.

Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 21:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.

VINYL DESTINATION This shop, which isn’t much bigger than an old 33 record, sells soul, jazz and 1960s pop on vinyl.QSint Annaplein 6B, tel. (+31) 628 96 62 82, www.selectedsounds.nl.

Open 11:00 - 18:00.

OPTICIANS EEKELAAR EYE FASHION This optician focuses not just on lenses and vision, but also on eye fashion.QC-3, Heuvelstraat 59, tel. (+31) 135 80 07 41, www.eekelaar.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. J

This guy knows his music

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Shopping SECONDHAND SHOPS LA POUBELLE Retro is hip these days and thrift shop La Poubelle is retro cheap. You can find almost anything here from couches and electronic appliances to clothing and all sorts of rubbish you can use to decorate your house with. Next to the thrift store is an ‘upmarket’ section that called Het Domein that specialises in some excellent interior gems.

QJ-6, Hoevenseweg 3, tel. (+31) 135 43 92 22, www. kringlooplapoubelle.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. USED BEFORE Humbled by the economic crisis or a lover of secondhand stuff? Whatever your reason, this is a good place to buy a used washing machine, TV or other household appliance for a decent price.QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat 55, tel. (+31) 634 00 29 87, www.usedbefore.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00.

Closed Mon, Sun.

SHOPPING CENTRES EMMAPASSAGE This is a rather chic, indoor mall with a wide range of shops and there’s always plenty of natural light provided by the glass ceiling. Among the 22 shops are a very large bookstore, fashion and shoe shops, travel agencies, a jewelry boutique and a restaurant.QC/D-3, Emmapassage, www.emmapassage.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. PTJ6ULGK SCHOUWBURG PROMENADE This partially covered shopping centre houses over 35 shops. Some are privately owned and independent, but some of the larger international franchises are also available.QB-4, Schouwburgpromenade, www. schouwburgpromenade.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. TJ6UB

SPECIALTY SHOPS KNUS EN KNAPPER Located in the Dwaalgebied, this place is a barbershop, a sewing shop and a fashion atelier all in one. While hubby gets a shave, the lady of the house can do some serious browsing through the shelves, which are filled with bags, jewellery and homemade clothing.QB-2, Tuinstraat 91, tel. (+31) 619 63 13 04/(+31) 641 81 03 71, www. knusenknapper.nl. J PLEÏADE This is the spiritual shop of Tilburg. It offers everything in the field of organic food and drink, singing bowls, stones, meditation, yoga and massage. The store has over the years become a meeting place for spiritual aficionados.

QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat 36, tel. (+31) 135 36 12 86, info@pleiadetilburg.nl, www.pleiadetilburg.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 9:30 - 21:00, Sat 9:30 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. JG facebook.com/inyourpocket

De Wereldwinkel sells souvenirs from all around the world

SPORTS & OUTDOOR SHOPS SPORTIEF TILBURG Sportief Tilburg has been an expert on everything related to outdoor sports and travel for over 30 years. Winter sports are also taken seriously and are well represented in this 1,000m2 space.QI-6, Professor Goossenslaan 26, tel. (+31) 135 43 39 60, www.sportieftilburg.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu, Fri 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. AU

SWEETS DE SOETE INVAL This place sells 700 different kinds of traditional Dutch and modern sweets.QB-3, Nieuwlandstraat 58a, tel. (+31) 135 43 36 71, www.desoeteinval.com. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J

TEA & COFFEE SHOPS KALDI From the plant or bean to the liquid in your colourful mug, the friendly lady who runs Kaldi knows all there is to know about coffee and tea. You can also buy a present for friend or attend a barista workshop here.QC-2, Willem II straat 68, tel. (+31) 135 35 07 51, www.kaldi.nl. Open 09:30 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 17:00. Closed Mon. PJGW

WINE & LIQUOR SHOPS T DRINKS This liquor shop is the only place to go for praotwater (Tilburg Beer), Knipoogske, HullieGullie and all kinds of other local, drinkable souvenirs. It also has the biggest selection of whisky and beers in town.QD-3, Heuvelpoort 315, tel. (+31) 135 80 11 26, www.tdrinks.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J VAN BILSEN You can find a gorgeous wine for as little as €5 here although the Moet for €495 is no doubt also quite good.

QI-6, Korvelseweg 45, tel. (+31) 135 32 12 01, www. wijnkoperijvanbilsen.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. April 2015 - March 2016

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Leisure & Lifestyle New in town? Suffering a spontaneous allergy attack, a broken tooth or a bad hair day? For doctors, dentists, hairdressers and many more handy addresses read on.

DANCE SCHOOLS FACTORIUM The Factorium is a beautiful building where classes, workshops and lessons are given in the field of performing arts.

Tickle the ivories of a pipe organ, train your baritone voice, move your hips to capoeira or try your dance skills Bollywood-style. You can watch all of the action from the comfort of a beanbag before you decide which course to take.

QC-4, Koningsplein 11A, tel. (+31) 135 35 40 55, www. factorium.nl. Open 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J

DENTISTS G.H.M. VAN DER ZAND QB-2, Spoorlaan 378, tel. (+31) 135 80 18 88. Open 08:00 - 17:00, Fri 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J

DIVING D-DIVING This experienced dive team will teach you how to appreciate life under water in a variety of pools.QL-7, Raadhuisplein 47, Rijen, tel. (+31) 682 04 71 20, www.d-diving.nl.

DOCTORS BRANDS EN TAMINIAU QD-3, Heuvelring 138, tel. (+31) 135 42 37 34. J

FITNESS & GYMS KWIDAM Only women are allowed to work out at this gym that specialises in spinning, zumba and pilates.QI-5, Cornelis de Vriendtstr 39, tel. (+31) 135 43 98 40, www.kwidam.nl.

Open 09:00 - 22:00, Sat 09:00 - 12:00. Closed Sun. GD PUUR FITNESS This is by far the cheapest option for fitness aficionados in Tilburg.QH-5, Artemisstraat 6, tel. (+31) 135 90 01 40, info@puur-fitness.nl, www.puur-fitness.nl. Open 08:30 - 22:30, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 16:00. PTFLN

HAIRDRESSERS & BARBERS HARDY’S Having your hair cut here might be more expensive than in similar places, but the stunning views of the Tilburg Piushaven from this hip hairdresser boat are worth the extra cash. Call or make an appointment on its website.QE-4, Piushaven 1-D, tel. (+31) 135 36 52 00, info@hardys.nl, www.hardys.nl. Open 08:30 - 19:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 08:30 - 20:00, Sat 08:30 - 16:00. Closed Sun. J JOHN BEERENS HAARSTUDIO You’ve come to the right place if you want to have your hair cut by a local Dutch celebrity. John, the bald barber, is one of the most well-known people in Tilburg.QH-5, Professor Gimbrèrelaan 45, tel. (+31) 134 670 360, info@ johnbeerens.nl, www.johnbeerens.nl. Open 09:00 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Fri 08:30 - 21:00, Sat 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. PA

KARTING DE VOLTAGE De Voltage was originally a part of the Volt factory, nowadays it serves as an indoor entertainment centre where you can have fun go-karting, playing laser tag or paintball, try a rodeo or sumo wrestling or even play bungee football.QI-6, Groenstraat 139-391, tel. (+31) 135 80 00 07, fax (+31) 135 80 00 09, info@devoltage.nl, www. devoltage.nl. Open 15:00 - 23:00, Wed 14:00 - 23:00, Fri 15:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. THEKW

LAUNDRIES WASKNIJPER Six washing machines, four dryers and a selection of magazines is all you need to get the laundry done. And 45 minutes of your precious time.QI-6, Korvelseweg 132, www.wasknijper.com. Open 08:00 - 21:00. J WAS ME GROEN ECOSTOMERIJ Eco-friendly steam and dry cleaning services.QI-6, Broekhovenseweg 73, tel. (+31) 135 43 24 80, www. wasmegroen.nl. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.

GOLF EFTELING GOLFPARK Your dream golfing holiday doesn’t have to be the stuff of fairy tales. The Efteling Golf course is a vast area with an 18-hole course and a practice course. The clubhouse has a restaurant overlooking the rolling lawn of the golf course and a golf shop for all your needs on the links. Everything here exudes luxury, but you’ll also see all of the typical Efteling accents designed by Dutch artist Anton Pieck.QM-7, Veldstraat 6, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31) 900 01 61, www. efteling.com. Open 10:00 - 18:00. HGBK 40 Tilburg In Your Pocket

Children take advantage of the water on a hot summer day

tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Leisure & Lifestyle TILBURG FOR KIDS LOLLAND Children can take advantage of a wide variety of attractions such as a tower and a climbing maze, but their isn’t much for parents to do.QJ-5, Ceramstraat 9, tel. (+31) 135 80 05 05, www.lolland.nl. Open 14:00 - 19:00, Wed 13:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 19:00.

Closed Tue, Thu. (€4.50). TGK SPEELBOERDERIJ DE VOSSENBERG This indoor children’s paradise located on the edge of Tilburg has a gigantic climbing attraction that’s four storeys high and the outside playground is completely self-contained so kids can safely run around to their heart’s content. Parents can enjoy a drink while blissfully watching their offspring or they can just have a chat with other moms and dads.QF-6, Tilburgsebaan 42, tel. (+31) 161 45 32 18, www.devossenberg.net.

Open Wed, Fri 09:30 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 19:00.

Closed Mon, Tue, Thu. STRAND & SPEELLAND BEEKSE BERGEN Come here for trampolines and water slides, bumper boats, water bikes and pony rides. Most of attractions are included in the admission fee, but you’ll have to pay extra for a few of the rides, such as the bumper cars, mini cars and the carousel. This children’s theme park shares its name with the adjacent safari park, which is also worth a visit.QM-8, Beekse Bergen 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 58 94, info@beeksebergen.nl, www.speelland.nl.

Open 10:00 - 17:00. HALBKC

MASSAGE PURE L This ayurvedic massage salon has the perfect city centre location.QC-2, IJzerstraat 15, tel. (+31) 135 42 14 61, www.pure-l.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00.

Closed Wed, Sun. J

PHARMACIES MEDIQ APOTHEEK JULIANASTAETE A centrally located pharmacy with all the medicine and vitamins you might need.QD-3, Heuvelring 212, tel. (+31) 135 42 63 52, julianastaete.mediq-apotheek.nl. Open 08:00 - 17:30. Closed Sat, Sun. PJA

SPAS & BEAUTY CITYSAUNA This sauna is conveniently located in the city centre. Although the cheap prices might make one skeptical, the number of different baths and saunas will certainly put you at ease.

City Sauna also offers a high tea or a wine special, which is a nice way to complete your visit.QD-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 137 11 19 16, www.citysauna.nl. Open 16:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 13:00 - 23:00. Admission: €9.95. J facebook.com/inyourpocket

Enjoy a cool splash in the Heuvel square fountains

THERMEN TILBURG You can let yourself be completely pampered at the largest and, in our opinion, best wellness centre in town. With facilities like a Himalayan crystal salt stone cabin, a rose salon and a light therapy room, you can be sure that relaxing has never been easier. Your whole body will be rejuvenated in the spa and the restaurant, which, of course, serves healthy salads.QL-8, Moerse Dreef 10, tel. (+31) 135 71 54 10, www.thermentilburg.nl. Open 10:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. PUGKD

SPORTS CENTRES DOLFIJN The Dolphin has 10 bowling alleys, but air hockey and billiard enthusiasts can also have a great time here. Its shop offers all the professional equipment you could possibly need to bowl a strike and kids will have the time of their lives at its disco parties where you can bowl under flashing lights.QI-5, Ringbaan Oost 2a, tel. (+31) 135 42 43 80, www.tilburg-dolfijnbowling.nl. Open 14:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 01:00, Sun 13:00 - 23:00. GK SKISH INDOOR SKI + SQUASH If you’ve never skiiied before, this is an ideal way to learn. You can pick up the basics on two small tracks, each 6m-wide and 10m-long. Due to the large mirrored wall you’ll be able to copy the movements of the instructors quickly and be ready for the real slopes in no time.QM-7, Gen. Eisenhowerweg 7, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 135 33 90 88, www.skish.nl. Open 17:00 23:00, Wed 10:00 - 23:00, Fri 14:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00. Introductory lessons: €18.

TJL

WATER PARKS RECREATIEBAD STAPPEGOOR (SWIMMING POOL STAPPEGOOR) The Stappegoor swimming pool is small for a city like Tilburg, but children want for nothing here with whirlpools, steam cabins and and the wild rapids slide, which is fun for adults, too. It offers a pool for competitions, one for recreation and a small outdoor pool.QI-6, Stappegoorweg 1, tel. (+31) 135 32 59 00, www.sportintilburg.nl. Open 07:00 - 21:30. TGBKC April 2015 - March 2016

41

Hotels Finding a place to stay in Tilburg takes some planning.

There are few low budget hotels and hostels, so, unfortunately, most options are more expensive accommodations.

If you’re a business traveller who can abuse the company’s expense account, then you’re in luck. All prices listed below include VAT and many offer breakfast, but often for a hefty fee.

SYMBOL KEY

UPMARKET

H Conference facilities U Facilities for the disabled

AUBERGE DU BONHEUR The small Auberge du Bonheur hotel has a beautiful, classic Jaguar parked in the driveway, which is characteristic of the luxury and style you can expect here. Auberge du Bonheurs is, after all, the most chic hotel in Tilburg and each of its 26 rooms is uniquely designed with rural themes. The villa in which the hotel is housed is just outside the city centre, but there’s enough to do close by. The hotel has an outstanding restaurant and hikers can take advantage of the nearby woods, de Oude Warande, where you can go on long walks. The hotel is a short distance from Tilburg University and it’s suitable for bon vivants as well as for hardworking businesspeople.QH-5, Bredaseweg 441, tel. (+31) 134 68 69 42, www.bonheurhorecagroep.nl.

26 rooms (doubles €129). PHALGBKXW hhhh

I Fireplace

F Fitness centre

L Guarded parking

R LAN connection

DE POSTELSE HOEVE De Postelse Hoeve is located on the edge of the city near many motorways, so it’s ideal for business travellers and free parking is another perk. It looks more like an American motel, however, than a Dutch four-star hotel, because of its layered architecture. Despite the fact that the interior is somewhat dated, it still has plenty to offer. The dark rooms and corridors give the complex a 1970s look, but all have been upgraded with modern conveniences like wireless internet. The hotel’s restaurant, which happens to serve the best lobster in the Tilburg area, is reason enough to spend a cosy night here.QI-5, Dr. Deelenlaan 10, tel. (+31) 134 63 63 35, www.depostelsehoeve.nl. 35 rooms (€97 - 195). PTHALGBKXW hhhh

Auberge du Bonheur is one of the chicest hotels in Tilburg

42 Tilburg In Your Pocket

A Accepts credit cards P Air conditioning Z Anti-allergy

O Casino

T Child-friendly

T City centre location

J Old town location B Outside seating 6 Pet-friendly

K Restaurant

D Sauna

X Smoking section

C Swimming pool

W Wifi

MERCURE HOTEL TILBURG CENTRUM The biggest advantage of this four-star hotel is its central location in the heart of the bustling inner city near all Tilburg’s best pubs, clubs and nightlife. That said, proper insulation and double-glazed glass ensure a good night’s sleep for anyone who doesn’t wish to partake of the commotion outside. The staff is friendly and the rooms, both €135 and €165 doubles, are spacious. The Taste restaurant in the cellar is excellent and also well worth a try.QD-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 135 35 46 75, www.mercuretilburg.nl. 91 rooms (2 singles €128, 79 doubles €128, 4 triples €128, 2 suites €134, 4 apartments €140).

PTJHAULGBKXW hhhh

MID-RANGE BASTION HOTEL TILBURG Bastion is situated on the edge of Tilburg, ideally located between the Beekse Bergen and Efteling amusement parks. The rooms and bathrooms are simple and equipped with modern conveniences like electric kettles and free internet. This unpretentious hotel also serves the best breakfast in town where everything is fresh and you can eat as much as your stomach permits.QJ-6, Kempenbaan 2, tel. (+31) 135 44 19 99, www.bastionhotelgroep.nl. 40 rooms (doubles €36). THALGKXW hhh CITY HOTEL TILBURG When one considers that this hotel is located right in the centre of Tilburg, City Hotel is actually remarkably large with nearly 20 rooms. Prices aren’t the cheapest you’ll find in Tilburg, but the accommodation does offer a view of the Heuvelplein and the opportunity to crawl straight into bed from the pub. The bathrooms are equipped with bathtubs and showers and the hotel offers free internet, which makes it quite convenient for business people.

QD-3, Heuvelring 126, tel. (+31) 135 35 13 55, www. cityhoteltilburg.nl. 18 rooms. JALGW hhh tilburg.inyourpocket.com

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Hotels DE ROOI PANNEN De Rooi Pannen is an educational institution for HoReCa students learning the hospitality trade in a practical setting. So don’t be surprised if an instructor openly discusses a mistake made by the receptionist. The rooms on the ground level have been furnished by the large, wellknown hotel chains, while the rooms above are designed to look like luxurious five-star rooms. The hotel is closed during school holidays.QI-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135 95 56 50, www.derooipannen.nl. Open 07:00 23:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 19 rooms (3-star €49, 4-star €59, 5-star €74). PTHALGKXW IBIS TILBURG Its 72 rooms may be somewhat small, but they are incredibly clean, comfortable and the beds have great mattresses. The staff is friendly, parking is free and an outdoor terrace where you can fully enjoy the sun in summer is available. Unfortunately wi-fi is only free in the lobby, but double rooms with dividing doors are ideal for families.

The bus will take you to the centre in eight minutes and a taxi ride will cost you €15.QH-6, Dr. Hub Van Doorneweg 105, tel. (+31) 134 63 64 65, www.ibishotel.com. 72 rooms (68 doubles €65 - 75, 4 family rooms €65 - 75).

PHALBKXW hhhh

BUDGET GASTENVERBLIJF KONINGSHOEVEN The Trappist monastery of Koningshoeven Abbey is an ideal location to spend the night. Peace reigns supreme in the charming monastery gardens as well as the library.

For €40 per day you can catch a glimpse of modern monastic life, although the 18 resident monks live separate from their guests. Two of the three communal meals are eaten in silence, an atmosphere that these clergymen seem perfectly at ease with. Visitors must comply with the house rules, as well as the Golden Rule that nobody may speak after 21:00. The guest quarters include 29 sober one person rooms. If you feel like an even more ecclesiastical experience you can receive the sacrament of penance or have a personal talk with one of the monks.QM-8, Eindhovenseweg 3, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 135 40 85 08, www.koningshoeven.nl. 29 singles (€40/room). Tours: 09:00 - 10:30 & 15:00 - 16:30. Closed Mon. LG

He watches over everyone in Tilburg

44 Tilburg In Your Pocket

HET WAPEN VAN TILBURG Het Wapen van Tilburg is a backpackers’ hostel rather than a budget hotel. It’s located diagonally opposite the railway station and next door to hash paradise The Grass Company. The very basic furnishings are almost spartan, with beds from IKEA and very little else. Five of the seven rooms are doubles and two can be reserved by groups.

The communal showers and toilets are in the corridor. If you don’t mind all this, you’ve found one of the cheapest ways to experience Tilburg. QC-1, Spoorlaan 362, tel. (+31) 135 42 26 92, www.hetwapenvantilburg.nl. Open 11:30 - 00:30, Thu 11:30 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 11:30 - 02:00. 7 rooms (€22.50/person). TJALGBKW

BED & BREAKFAST EEN DER KONINGSHOEVEN The beautiful Een Der Koningshoeven farm is situated near a forest on a country estate that, as the name suggests, used to be part of one of the five farms that King William II had built in 1832. Many of these buildings have been used by the Cistercian Order, otherwise known as Trappist monks, since 1881. However, two of the holdings were sold to random buyers and one has been converted into lovely accommodation. There is space enough for two people in this little house, which has been designed with natural materials, but if you’re with a large group you can make use of the dormitory in the attic.QM-8, Torentjeshoeve 7, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 651 99 19 52, www. eenderkoningshoeven.nl. (€40/person). LGB GUST VAN DIJK In the middle of the inner city of Tilburg you’ll find B&B Gust van Dijk designed by artists and therefore look super hip. One is called the ‘Orange Submarine’ because of the overpowering colour scheme and the ‘City Park Greens’ offers a beautiful view of the lovely Tivoli Park. The B&B is located above a former shop that was built in 1937 based on drawings by architect Frans Ruts, who helped a lot of Brabant residents create their dream homes. In short, staying the night at Gust van Dijk is an inspiring, artistic and, best of all, restful experience.QE-2, Tivolistraat 22, tel. (+31) 135 44 44 95, www.bedandbreakfasttilburg.nl. 2 rooms (doubles €90). JGBXW LELIA EN MICHEL BAKKER In the middle of a residential area that borders the busy centre of Tilburg is a friendly-looking house where three ordinary rooms have been turned into accommodation: two double rooms and a small single room. Due to the residential surroundings, you may feel like you’re staying the night with friends. The house is spic and span and you can contribute to this by only wearing the coloured slippers that are placed in front of you. If the owners of this friendly B&B ever go bankrupt, they’ll still be able to find work as translators as this hospitable duo speaks seven languages fluently.QJ-5, Gildebroederstraat 60, tel. (+31) 132 11 48 23, www.bedandbreakfast.nl. 3 rooms (singles and doubles €35/person). JB tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Hotels OUT OF TOWN: HOTELS

Enjoy a good night’s sleep at City Camping

CAMPING STADSCAMPING The Stadscamping, or City Camping, opens its doors for all kinds of major events in Tilburg including the Roadburn Festival, Festival Mundial, the Tilburg Fair and the Incubate Festival. Camping in the city centre is a unique experience for both tourists and ‘Tilburgers’ alike.QI-5, Sint Ceciliastraat 1, info@stadscamping013.nl, www. stadscamping013.nl.

OUT OF TOWN: B&BS DE KEER If you’ve spent any time travelling around the Netherlands you’ll have noticed that the Dutch keep their yards in immaculate condition and this B&B is no exception.

De Keer, which dates back to 1720, has high bushes all around a spacious lawn and a beautiful sitting terrace where you can just make out the sounds of traffic going past. The apartment is equally spacious and just like the yard is in great condition. It’s in the middle of the Dutch heartland so bring your running shoes or rent a cycle from the B&B to explore the countryside.QN-7, Bossche weg 60, Den Dungen, tel. (+31) 736 13 40 54, www.bbdekeer.nl. 1 appartment (1 person €80, two persons €90). TB HOEVE DE MERTEL In the middle of Dutch countryside you’ll find one of the many long farms which are characteristic of the rural landscape. At Hoeve De Mertel you can stay the night in a former granary or a hay loft. Breakfast is included and this B&B also offers an extensive lunch or dinner with local produce, so your stay will be completely hassle-free.

If you prefer to do your own cooking in the large kitchen, that’s also possible. The eight rooms differ in size and the bathrooms and toilets are communal. As you might expect, there are quite a few animals around. Cats roam freely and Swifter sheep can be admired on the meadows.

QM-7, Biezenmortelsestraat 8, Biezenmortel, tel. (+31) 135 11 17 64, www.hoevedemertel.nl. 8 rooms (€29 34/person). TGBKW facebook.com/inyourpocket

DE DRUIVENTROS This authentic family hotel offers plenty of the friendliness which is typical of the province of Brabant. Some would say the dated decor has seen better days, others will be impressed with the traditional hospitality, the comfortable bathrooms and unfailingly friendly staff. Whichever way you look at it, De Druiventros got its name in Napoleonic times, when there was a guesthouse at this very spot and a wine depot across the road. Modern conveniences include a restaurant, bar, free parking at the back, wireless internet access and laundry service. Entertainment includes a bowling alley.QM-8, Bosscheweg 11, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 347 75 04 38, www.hoteldedruiventros.nl. 56 rooms (€97.50). PTH6ULBKXW hhhh VAN DER VALK HOTEL GILZE-TILBURG The four-star hotel Van der Valk Gilze-Rijen is exactly halfway between Tilburg and Breda, which means that each of these Brabant towns is only a 15-minute drive away. The hotel was built in a country house style, which is typical of Van der Valk hotels. The majority of the 210 rooms have been furnished according to the latest fashion, although guests who enjoy a bit more luxury can use their credit cards to gain access to an even more luxurious suite. The hotel also boasts a pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish steam bath and in-house casino - a major bonus in our estimation.QL-8, Klein Zwitserland 8, Gilze, tel. (+31) 161 45 49 51, www.hotelgilzetilburg.nl. 210 rooms (standard, comfort and luxury suites €79 - €149). PZO� THA6UFLGBKDXCW hhhh WAALWIJK HOTEL This multifunctional hotel in the centre of Waalwijk caters to businesspeople and the primarily Dutch visitors of the nearby amusement park. The spacious family rooms provide added value to this hotel, which is nevertheless in dire need of a redecoration. The rather shabby and dated exterior isn’t exactly encouraging and the sagging mattresses will cause you to roll to the middle of your bed, but the extensive breakfast is excellent.QBurg van de Klokkenlaan 55, Waalwijk, tel. (+31) 416 33 60 45, www.hotelwaalwijk. nl. 61 rooms(€64). HALBKW hhhh

Tilburg City hall stands out from the crowd

April 2015 - March 2016

45

Loon op Zand, Kaatsheuvel & De Moer The municipality of Loon consists of the three villages of Loon op Zand, Kaatsheuvel and De Moer, which have a combined population of 22,961 people. The town hall is situated in Kaatsheuvel, but each village has its own unique character. The oldest of the three is Loon op Zand, formerly called Venloon. Loon op Zand got its name from the moor (ven) and forests (loon) that are an integral part of the area.

In 1269 the village was lent to William van Horne by the Duke of Brabant and became a so-called heerlijckheid. Because Venloon was located near the drifting sands of the Loonse en Drunense Duinen, or dunes, it was later called Venloon op ‘t Sandt and finally renamed Loon op Zand. The oldest mention of Kaatsheuvel dates from 1506, when it was referred to as Ketshovel. A canal to transport peat from the surrounding area was constructed then to develop the already incredibly lucrative peat trade. After the peat was exhausted, Kaatsheuvel became a centre for the footwear and leather industry, but today it’s mostly known for its famous theme park, The Efteling. De Moer was founded in the 14th century and has never really grown since then. The name of the village refers to its location on a bog. ‘Moer’ simply means moor or boggy land in Dutch.

ARRIVING & GETTING AROUND Loon op Zand and Kaatsheuvel are located 5 and 11km north of Tilburg, respectively. If travelling by car simply take the N261. Parking isn’t hard to find and is free in the city centre. Parking at the Efteling Theme Park will cost you about €10/day. The villages are easily accessible by direct buses from Tilburg. Buses No.136, 300 and 302 depart Tilburg Central Station for Loon op Zand, De Moer and Kaatsheuvel almost every half hour. Bus No.300 stops directly in front of the Efteling. All of the villages are also within cycling distance and the scenic trip from Tilburg to Kaatsheuvel is definitely worth the trip.

EATING & DRINKING DE MOLEN Housed in an authentic windmill dating back to 1849, this restaurant is the ideal place for a tasty meal in a unique space. The beautiful location contributes to the overall experience and you can drop by for both lunch and dinner at De Molen.QM-7, Vaartstraat 102, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31) 416 53 02 30, www. demolenkaatsheuvel.nl. Open 11:30 - 21:30. Closed Mon. (€20 - 25). IGBK DE OUDE LEEST Travel back in time to an era when shoemakers and tanners were still the backbone of Kaatsheuvel’s economy at this cosy, inviting restaurant. The décor is simple, yet charming, especially the sliding doors with stained glass windows. It’s also possible to dine outside in a beautiful ivy-covered arbour.QL-7, Peperstraat 8, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31) 416 85 82 00, www.deoudeleest.nl. Open 11:30 - 23:00, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€13 - 18). GBK 46 Tilburg In Your Pocket

SIGHTSEEING CHURCH OF ST. JOHN THE BEHEADED Built in 1394, this church was originally designed in Romanesque style, but around 1400 it was extended with a choir in the Gothic style. The tower and transept were added in 1450. In the 17th century it served as stables, then as a fire station and, for a brief amount of time, as a prison, but in 1821 it was reconsecrated as a Catholic church.

Don’t forget to take a look at the crypt in the cemetery that dated from 1898. Over 30 members of the local Verheyen family are buried there.QM-7, Oranjeplein 1, Loon op Zand, tel. (+31) 416 36 12 15. Open 09:00 - 18:00. J INN RIDING SCHOOL VAN LOON The Van Loon riding school specialises in horseback riding, cycling, hiking and mountain biking and you can enjoy true Brabant hospitality at the adjoining pub with its spectacular views of the Loonse and Drunense dunes in background. Warm yourself by the wood stove after a day on the dunes. QM-7, Kloosterstraat 115, Loon op Zand, tel. (+31) 416 36 15 19, www.hotelmanegevanloon.nl.

Open 10:00 - 00:00, Tue 17:00 - 00:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 00:00. Closed Mon. T6IBK DE LOONSE EN DRUNENSE DUINEN The dunes in this national park are unique and not to be found anywhere else in North Western Europe. Its sands are always moving. At the end of the 19th century woodlands were planted around the ‘drifting lands’ to control this unusual movement. On the south side of the park lies the De Brand marshland. Although very beautiful in autumn and winter, the best way to explore the Loonse and Drunense Dunes is on foot or by bike in spring or summer.

QM-7, www.nationaalpark.nl.

THE COUWENBERGH WINDMILL This windmill was built in 1849 by Couwenbergh, a local miller. Unfortunately, the mill was severely damaged during World War II. In 1994 it was sold and then completely restored by its new owners, who also converted the neighbouring warehouse building into a restaurant. The mill is still in use, but only for milling flour to bake bread for the restaurant. The windmill is accessible via a small entrance from the restaurant.

QM-7, Vaartstraat 102, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31) 416 53 02 30, www.restaurantdemolen.nl. Open 12:00 - 21:30. T

WHERE TO STAY DE LAKEI Only a five-minute walk to the Efteling amusement park and not far from the centre of Kaatsheuvel, this hotel offers comfortable rooms for up to six people and has a lovely terrace overlooking the Efteling. The rooms offer flat screen TVs, a private bathroom with shower, a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries and you can also rent electric bicycles at the hotel.QM-7, Van Heeswijkstraat 1, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31) 416 28 21 12, www.restauranthoteldelakei.nl.

TGBKW tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Index Index

013 32 Anvers 18 Asian Boulevard 24 Auberge Du Bonheur 42 Avans Hogeschool 35 Bakkertje Bol 26 Bastion Hotel Tilburg 42 Beans & Bites 26 Bet Kolen 29 Biku 20 Boekanier 31 Boerke Mutsaers 19 Bommel Beer 19 Boslust 25 Brabant Museum of Nature 35 Bredaseweg Cemetery 36 Broodje Jantje 20 Buutvrij 26 Café Bakker 29 Café Hoegaarden 29 Cinqueminuti 23 City Hotel Tilburg 42 Corton 31 Cul de Sac 30 De Baret 31 De Druiventros 45

De Havenmeester 26 De Keer 45 De Kievitshoeve 22 De Kleine Indo 22 De Korenbloem 28 De Living 30 De Oliemeulen 37 De Pannekoekenbakker 25 De Pont 35 De Postelse Hoeve 42 De Ritz 20 De Rooi Pannen 22, 44 De Slijterij 28 De Spaarbank 22 De Wijn 30 Een der Koningshoeven 44 Enjoii 24 Epic 30 Etenstijd 18 Extase 28 Fahrenheit 26 Faja Lobi 25 Fontys Rock Academy 32 Frozi Yogi 26 Gastenverblijf Koningshoeven 44 Gember & Sereh 22

Gust van Dijk 44 Hasselt Chapel 34 Havana 28 Heaven’s Kitchen 21 Het Wapen van Tilburg 44 Hoeve de Mertel 45 Humphrey’s 19 Ibis Tilburg 44 Intermezzo 22 I Pin Ke 18 Jade 18 Jasmine 25 Karel 28 Karnak 30 Kim’s Kroeg 28 King Willem II Stadium 32 Klein Tilburg 19 Koningshoeven Abbey 32 Kras2 27 Lambiek 29 Le Clochard 29 Lelia en Michel Bakker 44 Lucebert 20 L!ve Music Bar 30 Mañana 24 MeesterS 24 Melisa 25

OLD TOWN STREET REGISTER Aartestraat, Jan D3 Acaciastraat A1 Akkerstraat A3 Alexanderstraat C3 Annahof, Sint A4 Annaplein, Sint A4 Annastraat, Sint A4 Antoniusstraat B2 Atelierstraat C1 Barkstraat D4 Besterdring D1 Bleshof B3 Bodehof C2 Boomstraat A2 Bouwmeesterplein, Louis B4 Brabantlaan, Hart van A1 Bredaseweg A3 Brokxlaan, Burgemeester A1 Burgerijpad A2 Buxusplaats A1 Capucijnenstraat A4 Catamaranstraat E4 Cavaleriestraat D3 Clercxstraat D4 Damsstraat D3 Dionysiusstraat A2 Dondersstraat, Professor=3 E2 Dunantstraat E2

Elzenhof A2 Elzenstraat A2 Emmapassage C3 Emmastraat D3 Enschotsestraat E1 Esdoornstraat=4 A2 Fabriekstraat A2 Fleminghof E3 Flemingstraat E3 Fraterstraat A1 Galeipad D4 Galjoenhof E4 Galjoenstraat E4 Gardiaanhof A4 Gasthuisring A1 Girostraat C3 Goudenregenstraat E1 Harmoniepark B2 Helga Deentuin C2 Hendrikhof C3 Heuvel D2 Heuvel, Achter de E2 Heuvelpoort=1 D3 Heuvelring D2 Heuvelstraat B3 Hoogvensestraat E3 Huzarenstraat E3 IJzerstraat C2 Jasmijnstraat E1 Jolstraat E4 Josephstraat, Sint E3 Kapelhof B3

48 Tilburg In Your Pocket

Karrestraat C2 Kazernehof E3 Kerkpad C3 Klipperplein D4 Kloosterstraat B4 Koestraat D1 Koggeplein E4 Koningsplein C4 Koopvaardijstraat D4 Korte Schijfstraat A2 Korte Tuinstraat B3 Korvelseweg A4 Kotterstraat E4 Kurassiersstraat E3 Laagstraat A2 Lanciersstraat E3 Landsteinerstraat E2 Lange Schijfstraat A4 Langestraat B2 Leliestraat E1 Lochtstraat A1 Madeliefstraat E1 Magazijnstraat C2 Mariastraat B3 Mattheushof, Frater A4 Mauritshof D4 Monumentstraat C3 Nazarethstraat A4 Nieuwlandstraat B3 Noordhoekring A3 Noordstraat A2 Ns-Plein D1

Mercure Hotel Tilburg Centrum 42 Minos Pallas 21 Monarh 21 Monument to the 15th Scottish Division 35 Mugs & Muffins 27 Museumcafé 27 Old Town Square 36 Oude Warande 36 Palace-Town Hall 32 Philip 31 Poolcentrum 4 Friends 31 Puur Mercure 20 Rodeo Grill Restaurant 21 Ruby’s Irish Pub 31 Sarban 18 Shinzo 24 Snitz 20 Square 31 Stadscamping 45 Stadsgidserij 36 St. Dionysos Church 34 St. Joseph’s Church 34 St. Paul’s Church 34 St. Petrus 22 Studio Tilburg 29

Sushi Boulevard 24 Sushi Suki 24 Taste! 20 Taverna De Griek 21 Theatres Tilburg 34 The Clothespin 35 The Jug Pisser 37 The Talk 23 The TextielMuseum 35 Tilburg Sourdough 26 Tilburg University 34 T Kwadraat 30 Tortilla’s 25 Tuinhuis Culinair 21 ‘t Vaticaan 29 ‘t Zusje 23 Van der Valk Hotel Gilze-Tilburg 45 Van Vlerken 26 Vapiano 23 Vincent’s Art Room 36 Waalwijk hotel 45 Westpoint 34 Wilhelminapark 36 Willem II Statue 37 Yammie 21 Zoete Zaken 27

Oranjestraat D3 Ordonnansenstraat E3 Oudedijk B4 Oude Markt B3 Paleisring D3 Pasteurhof E2 Pasteurstraat E2 Paulownahof, Anna C4 Paulussehof, Frater B3 Piushaven E4 Piusplein D3 Piusstraat D4 Poststraat B2 Rankenstraat B3 Roemerhof B3 Romboutshof, Frater A3 Rozenplein E1 Rozenstraat E1 Salkplantsoen E2 Schoenerstraat E4 Schoolstraat A3 Schouwburgpromenade B4 Schouwburgring B3 Sebastiaanstraat, Sint D4 Seringenhof E1 Sonstraat, Van A4 Sophiastraat C3 Spoorlaan B1 Stadhuisplein C3 Stadhuisstraat C3 Stadstraat C4

Stationsstraat B2 Stolbergstraat, Juliana van D3 Telefoonstraat C3 Telegraafstraat C2 Telexstraat C2 Tivolistraat E2 Tjalkstraat D4 Trouwlaan A4 Tuinstraat B2 Tulpstraat=5 E1 Utrechtsestraat A2 Veemarktstraat D2 Vincentiuspad B3 Vincentiusstraat A3 Vorstenhof D4 Vreedepad, Pieter C2 Vreedeplein, Pieter C2 Vreedestraat, Pieter C3 Vrouweplein, Lieve A4 Wagenstraat D1 Wilgenstraat A3 Willem II Straat C3 Willemsplein C4 Wingerdhoek B3 Zomerstraat B4 Zuid-Oosterstraat E1 Zwaanstraat D3 Zwijsenplein C4 Zwijsenstraat, Bisschop C4

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Old town map