This extravagantly decorated clandestine church built centuries ago when Catholicism was considered a crime is hidden in plain sight behind an unassuming front door in the city centre. Those walking down Juffrouw Idastraat would never imagine that within one of the typical terraced houses lies the enormous Parish of Saints James and Augustine where Catholics used to practice their faith in secret. Nobody is quite sure who built the church, but the stunning baroque plastering seems to suggest that it was the famous architect and artist Daniel Marot or one of his students. Book a free tour which takes you through the church and the attic to the more recent Bishop’s Chamber which is full of some of the original features and furniture that were used in the 1700s.

Dating back as early as the 13th century, this late medieval building is the oldest remaining parliamentary court still in use today. It was first built as a castle and home to the various counts of Holland, but after several battles for succession, the Binnenhof changed hands many times and, in the process, saw many new administrative buildings erected around it. Extensive renovations are currently underway and not expected to finish before 2028, so politicians have had to find elsewhere to conduct their business. Tours of the surrounding areas are available and more information can be obtained at the Binnenhof Renovation Information Centre, which is right next to the complex.

Home to many timeless works of art such as 'Girl with the Pearl Earring' and 'The Goldfinch', the Mauritshuis Museum showcases the Dutch Golden Age of painting in all its splendour. Amongst others featured in the museum are both Rembrandt and Vermeer, two of the most celebrated master painters of this momentous time in Dutch history. In their work, they are able to capture the essence of the Netherlands as a global powerhouse and one of the most prosperous nations in Europe throughout the seventeenth century. Be aware that some of the better-known paintings are occasionally sent around the world to be presented in other art exhibitions so it is advisable to check ahead of time to see if they are on display.

The Haagse Bos, as it is referred to in Dutch, can be found towards the northeast of the centre of The Hague, starting in Malieveld and continuing up to Wassenaar. It is hugely important to the city’s history as some of the oldest trees in the Netherlands remain there after many were cut down for firewood in the 16th and 17th centuries and during the Second World War. Aside from its pertinent roots, The Hague Forest has a lot to offer passers-by such as large open green spaces, a deer park and a pond in the centre, making a great scenario for just about any event or activity.