Smedenpoort (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Smedenpoort?
What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: Grass banks, steel footbridges and a nearby mini-road park encourage safe play, but unfenced water edges, no toilets and no staff supervision require parents to watch children constantly.
Positives:
- Free entry: All on-site activities at Smedenpoort are free of charge.
- Stroller-friendly paths: Wide, smooth walkways make it easy to push strollers around the gate area.
Challenges:
- No on-site restrooms: You must walk 10–15 minutes to find public toilets with baby-changing facilities.
- Weather exposure: The canal bank and footbridges offer little shade or shelter in sun or rain.
What is Smedenpoort?
- A 14th-century fortified gateway that formed part of Bruges’ medieval city walls and defense system
- Constructed in brick-and-sandstone masonry, featuring twin corner towers, pointed arches and fortified battlements
- The sole surviving city gate of Bruges, preserved as a protected heritage monument along the western ramparts
What is so special about Smedenpoort for with kids?
- Free family-friendly play areas at Visartpark behind the gate.
- Scenic canal-bank lawns perfect for picnics and kite-flying.
- Flat, car-free ramparts allow safe children’s bike rides.
- Modern footbridges let kids watch boats pass under the medieval gate.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2–3 hour visit lets families enjoy the gate, picnic, and bike ride at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Smedenpoort
Mini-car track at Visartpark:
Let kids ride on the safe fenced mini road behind Smedenpoort.
Tip: Bring scooters or small bikes; the track is free and fenced.
Canal-bank picnic and play:
Spread a blanket on the grass beside the canal under the gate.
Tip: Buy snacks at a nearby deli and bring a kite for added fun.
Kids’ bike ride on the ramparts:
Rent children’s bikes and cycle the flat, car-free city walls path.
Tip: Reserve bikes at De Ketting; helmets are provided with rentals.
Footbridge exploration:
Cross the modern steel footbridges for views of boats under the gate.
Tip: Walk slowly with kids and point out passing boats.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Smedenpoort
- Visit early: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy soft morning light.
- Pack snacks: Bring picnic items to eat by the canal and save time looking for cafés.
- Book bike rentals in advance: Reserve children’s bikes online at De Ketting to ensure availability.
Reviews of Smedenpoort
Ryan Austin
Lovely to look at. Shame you cannot go in. Walkway is confusing, nearly got ran over by a motorcycle!
Bryan Kilvinski
Possibly the second greatest skull in Bruges
Elizabeth Baker
Impressive entrance to our visit to Bruges. There is an information panel nearby there provides the story why there's a skull on the side facing the town, which makes a useless resting place for local pigeons. Free to view.
Dani Baal
The Smedenpoort is one of Bruges’ historic city gates, dating back to the 14th century. Located at the end of Smedenstraat, it has undergone several restorations over the centuries. A notable feature is the bronze skull above the left passage, commemorating a thwarted betrayal in 1691 during the Nine Years’ War. In 2012, pedestrian bridges were added to enhance accessibility while preserving its h...
Pascale S.
A typical historical building in Bruges/Brugge : one of the original, medieval entrance gates to the town centre.
When is the best time to visit Smedenpoort (Bruges, Belgium)?
Summer offers long daylight for picnics; spring blooms along the ramparts. In autumn, pack windbreakers for cool breezes. In winter, paths can be icy—wear warm shoes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Kids’ bike rentals (2 @ €8) | EUR 16 |
| Picnic supplies (bread, cheese, drinks) | EUR 15 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 31 |
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 Smedenpoort
Address: Smedenstraat 71, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
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About Smedenpoort
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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