Fort 5 (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Fort 5?
What makes it 87% Kids-Friendly: School-age children find rope play forest, accessible playground, traffic park and safe bike paths, yet parents must supervise near the open moat and plan for few toilets or cafés.
Positives:
- Free admission: Entry to Fort 5 and playgrounds is free for all ages.
- Diverse activities: Combine active play, history and nature on one site.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: No public toilets with changing tables; bring baby supplies.
- Uneven surfaces: Some trails have roots and stones; stroller use may be tricky.
What is Fort 5?
- A 19th-century polygonal fortification built between 1863 and 1870 as part of Antwerp’s Brialmont defensive ring
- Features brick-and-stone ramparts, a dry moat and earthen glacis, showcasing mid-19th-century military engineering
- Occupies the centre of a municipal park in Edegem, amid wooded ramparts, trails and open green spaces
What is so special about Fort 5 for with kids?
- Hands-on play forest with treehouses and slides.
- Inclusive playground with swings, slides and sand play.
- Flat, well-marked 3–5 km trail around the fort ramparts and lake.
- Budget-friendly guided tours of historic galleries.
- Seasonal bat walks and picnic spots on the glacis slopes.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives enough time to explore playgrounds, trails and a guided tour without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Fort 5
Speelbos Dikke Bertha:
Wood-and-rope play forest with treehouses, slides and balance logs.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket to rest under the trees between play sessions.
Fort playground & motor-skills area:
Swings, slides, ravotheuvel and inclusive play zone near the main entrance.
Tip: Kids aged 3+ can safely enjoy the low slide and sand play; adults can join on the pétanque court.
Circular trail around Fort 5:
Flat 3–5 km loop passing the moat, ramparts and small lake.
Tip: Use scooters or bikes on the wide gravel path; pack water and sun hats.
Guided heritage tour:
One-hour tour of the inner fort and underground galleries led by historical guides.
Tip: Book via email at least two weeks in advance; pay €1 per adult on arrival, children under 12 free.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fort 5
- Visit on weekdays: Enjoy quieter trails and playgrounds away from weekend crowds.
- Pack light gear: Bring a small backpack with snacks, water, hats and a basic first-aid kit.
Reviews of Fort 5
Mike
Spent 2 very interesting hours visiting and exploring. Much more of this fort is accessible compared to fort 4
Sam A
At this very beautiful natural park, it is a shame that the municipality doesn't take care of it! Like there are no garbage baskets, it is too close to the highway, the fort is mostly close, it is a shame!
Anisong Pilakasiri
Beautiful, cozy, suitable for all ages. There are places to walk and run, both flat and trail. Preserves the condition of the fort very well.
Mollys Irish Pub
Great for a walk especially with dog, playground for children. Beautiful laje to walk round while you try spot the turtles. Very pretty. Fort is great. Lovely & peaceful for a picnic etc
Mirna Bečević
This has got to be one of the coolest places in whole Belgium! Hours and hours of endless fun with this great slide, lovely playground and several natural beauties all around. We really enjoyed it here.
When is the best time to visit Fort 5 (Antwerp, Belgium)?
In August, join free evening bat walks in the old galleries; May–September offers mild weather—start early to avoid midday heat.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Guided heritage tour (2 adults) | EUR 2 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 12 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Fort 5
Address: Fort V-straat, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
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About Fort 5
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+32 3 289 26 5010 BEST nearby Activities
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