Something special is happening in Lemmer during the spring holiday. On 24, 25 and 26 February, the Ir. D.F. Woudagemaal will come back to life for the training of operational staff. Early in the morning, as thick clouds of steam rise into the crisp air, the world’s largest still-operating steam pumping station awakens.
These are the moments when you do more than simply visit the pumping station, you truly experience it. On these days, the doors are wide open from 10:30 to 17:00 for everyone who wants to witness this impressive spectacle up close.
The Ir. D.F. Woudagemaal is owned by Wetterskip Fryslân and is started up twice a year to keep stokers and engineers well prepared. This remains essential, as the pumping station is still deployed during extreme high water to keep Fryslân dry. Over a hundred years old and still of great importance.
Your visit begins at the visitor centre, where you learn in an interactive way about water management, climate change and the choices involved. A volunteer guide then takes you inside the pumping station. There you see, hear and feel the power of this steam installation. An experience for all ages.
Visiting during the operating days?
Check the website for more information and secure your tickets for a unique experience.
Please note: in case of extreme high water, the pumping station may be put into operation for its primary task. In that case, the scheduled operating days will be cancelled. Always check the website or social media for updates.
