Discover Spenge: Werburg, churches, and Hücker Moor

Those interested in Spenge will find a range of reasons to plan a trip: historic buildings and churches, Hücker Moor and its paths, and a forest swimming pool with its own children’s pool. These places and activities have different focuses. So first consider whether you would like to focus on culture, water and landscape, or exercise.

Werburg Ensemble, castle, and churches

The Werburg Ensemble is a moated castle complex first documented in 1468. Architecturally, the eastern gatehouse and parts of the manor house are examples of the Lippe-Weser Renaissance. Those interested in architectural history can therefore explore both the complex’s long-documented history and its specific architectural classification. Mühlenburg Castle, the park pond, and the courtyard well can be viewed from outside.

The churches also offer their own historical highlights. St. Mary’s Church in Wallenbrück is Spenge’s oldest church; its Romanesque tower dates from the 12th century. Its furnishings include an organ from 1624, considered the third-oldest organ in Westphalia. The present-day St. Martin’s Church was built in the second half of the 13th century. The 15th-century St. Martin’s altar has been back in the church since 1993. These different historical periods make the churches and buildings independent stops for anyone who enjoys exploring history while travelling.

Another example of historic technology is the Hücker-Aschen windmill. Built in 1861, it has been restored and is an example of historic milling technology. The Hücker-Aschen local history society offers visits. As dates and arrangements may change, it is advisable to check visiting options in advance.

Hücker Moor: water, paths, and consideration

The lake in Hücker Moor, which covers about twelve hectares, formed after peat extraction ended and the excavated basin filled with water. The moor is the largest body of water in the Herford district. At the lake, you can walk along the shore, go boating, and eat at establishments with direct access to the lake. If you plan to take advantage of any of these options, check current availability before your visit. Important for navigating by the water: the southern shore is a protected area and may not be entered.

A circular path about 3.5 kilometres long leads around Hücker Moor; the Paradies viewpoint offers views of the surrounding area. This makes it easy to plan a manageable loop around the moor, while other routes are considerably longer. The Spangenweg circles Spenge for approximately 16 kilometres. These differences in length and route help you choose a suitable walk for your day, without treating the routes as equivalent.

Information boards and maps at the car park opposite Mühlenburg Castle provide further guidance. There is a separate board at the Werburg Ensemble for shorter walks. If you have a particular destination or a different route length in mind, you can also compare the route names: the nine-kilometre Mühlenweg, also called the Mühlradweg, leads to Werburg Spenge or Spenge Town Hall. The Segelschiffweg, also called the Schiffchenweg, is approximately 13 kilometres long and heads towards Hücker Moor. Their different lengths and destinations provide different starting points for planning.

More nature and leisure activities

In Katzenholz you’ll find the Hühnerhaus, a former forestry workers’ cottage now run on a voluntary basis as a nature education centre. A sunken lane also offers a glimpse into the former use of the landscape: it is considered a historic landscape feature and a refuge for animals and plants. Those interested in nature and the landscape as well as architectural history will find further topics to explore beyond visits to individual buildings.

Werburg Forest Swimming Pool has a diving tower, a non-swimmer area, step-free access, and a children’s pool. These are practical features for planning a day of swimming, and distinguish it from the cultural and landscape attractions at the other destinations. As facilities and operating conditions may change, check current opening information before your visit.

Once you’ve decided on your priorities, you can choose accommodation to suit your personal travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Kirchlengern, Enger, Herford, Löhne, Sundern, Vlotho, Bünde, Rödinghausen.

Return to the main travel overview: Herford.