The Keukenhof Tulip Garden

Tulips have long been a personal favorite, but my interest intensified significantly following an encounter with Polly Nicholson's beautiful book, "The Tulip." This appreciation deepened further after attending a compelling presentation by Nicholson herself, where she showcased her remarkable collection of historic tulip varieties.

Curiosity piqued, I soon found myself drawn to the Netherlands, compelled to witness first hand the internationally acclaimed Keukenhof Garden, home to an impressive display of more than seven million flowering bulbs that attracts horticultural enthusiasts each year, from across the globe.

Located just outside Amsterdam, Keukenhof opens its doors for eight weeks each year, typically from the end of March through May. The spectacle you’ll experience varies depending on when you visit, but in early April, the daffodils and narcissus are usually in full bloom, accompanied by the first of the early flowering tulips

Keukenhof has earned its reputation as the most beautiful spring garden in the world, and as I walked through its gates, expectations were high. Yet, the garden not only met them but surpassed them. While Keukenhof can feel somewhat commercial, drawing in crowds from all over, its vast expanse allowed for a surprising sense of space, never feeling overwhelming despite the throngs of visitors. The meticulous organisation of the garden was immediately apparent—every path seemed carefully planned, inviting visitors to meander at their own pace, taking in the breathtaking sea of tulips in all their glory.

My visit began with the Historic Tulip Garden, where the layout, designed in the classic parterre style, immediately drew me in. The garden was framed by low Buxus hedging, complemented by graceful water features and perfectly pruned trees that added structure and depth to the space. Everything was meticulously labelled, making it easy to pause, take note, and truly connect with the plants on display. Among the many beauties, I found myself particularly drawn to Narcissus 'Conspicuus', a variety with roots stretching back to 1869, as well as the delicate Narcissus dubbel 'Pip van Winkle' and the striking Fritillaria 'The Premier.'

Keukenhof has something for everyone. Whether you’re leisurely strolling to take in the vibrant colours, having a well-deserved break, or stopping to admire a sculpture or water feature, there’s always a moment to pause and appreciate. For the curious, the informative boards offer fascinating insights into the rich history behind the iconic bulbs, making the experience all the more enriching.

In the Historic Garden there was a wealth of information about the daffodil. Once a wildflower native to the regions surrounding the Mediterranean and Central Europe, the daffodil has undergone a remarkable transformation. Its journey to prominence in Northern Europe began in the late 16th century, when Dutch botanist Carolus Clusius (1526–1609) introduced the plant to the Netherlands.

Clusius, known for his role in the spread of tulips, helped spark interest in the daffodil among European horticulturists. Centuries later, that curiosity has blossomed into a global fascination. Today, there are more than 26,000 known varieties of daffodils, blooming in a range of colors beyond their classic yellow—orange, white, green, and even pink varieties now brighten gardens around the world.

Leaving the Historic Tulip Garden behind, a gentle path meanders toward Oranje Nassau, where the garden transitions into a spectacular showcase of roses, all brimming with colour and fragrance. Though tulips once stole the show here, traces of their legacy still linger—stories of cultivation, trade, and obsession rooted deep in the soil. It’s a space where seasons shift but the sense of history remains, offering visitors a chance to pause, breathe in the bloom, and reflect on the enduring charm of the bulb that shaped a nation’s garden culture.

The tulip first made its way to Dutch soil in the 16th century, arriving from the Ottoman Empire—modern-day Turkey—through thriving trade routes. What began as a curiosity soon became a national obsession. By the 1630s, the Netherlands was in the grip of Tulip Mania, a short but intense period when rare bulbs were traded for staggering sums—some fetching as much as 4,400 guilders, more than the cost of a house at the time. Though the frenzy faded, the passion endured. Today, the legacy lives on in vibrant fields stretching across 15,000 hectares, where tulips bloom by the millions each spring, a living tribute to the flower that once captivated a nation.

At the heart of Keukenhof lies the Willem-Alexander Pavilion, a true haven for tulip enthusiasts. Inside, thousands of tulips bloom in a breathtaking indoor display—an explosion of colour, form, and fragrance beneath one roof. For garden lovers, it’s pure delight: each variety is clearly labelled, making it easy to discover favourites and jot down inspiration for future planting. Whether you're drawn to the soft pastels or the bold bi-colours, this display offers endless possibilities. For me, it was the highlight of Keukenhof—a moment of floral abundance that lingers in the memory long after the petals fall.

One of my own personal favourites was Tulipa 'Lasergame'.

Visiting Keukenhof was a revelation. I had no idea there were so many variations in colour, shape, and form among tulips—each with its own distinct feel. The experience left me brimming with ideas for my own garden. I’ve selected a few striking combinations to weave into the borders of my cottage garden, and in my cutting garden, I’ll be experimenting each spring with new varieties that caught my eye in the Netherlands. Keukenhof isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a source of real inspiration. If you love gardening—or simply appreciate beauty—it’s well worth the journey to see the tulips in bloom and discover their rich and fascinating history.

Guineveres Garden | Garden Writer