Sleeping behind bars takes on a whole new meaning at the Almelo Prison Hotel in the Netherlands. This former jailhouse has been cleverly converted into a quirky lodging option that lets you experience life on the inside – without the criminal record.
Standard rooms, deluxe cells, and suites offer varying levels of comfort, while a hearty buffet breakfast and shared kitchen facilities add to the homey feel.
The hotel’s location is a plus, putting you within easy reach of local sights and public transport. However, light sleepers might find the echoing corridors disruptive, and some may feel the "prison" theme is a bit too authentic for comfort.
This unique accommodation is perfect for adventure-seekers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a conversation starter. If you’re after a conventional luxury experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
But for those willing to embrace the unusual, a night in the slammer here is sure to be an arresting experience.
About Your Stay
- The hotel was formerly a prison, offering guests a unique experience by transforming the original prison cells into accommodations.
- The hotel features a range of room types, including standard rooms, deluxe cells, and suites, catering to different guest preferences.
- Guests can enjoy various amenities, such as a buffet-style breakfast, shared kitchen facilities, and services like bicycle rental and laundry.
- The hotel’s central location provides easy access to local attractions, transportation, and the surrounding Twente region.
- The hotel’s distinctive prison-themed decor and history contribute to an unforgettable and immersive guest experience.
Contents
- About Your Stay
- Hotel Overview
- Accommodation Details
- Guest Services and Amenities
- Policies and Regulations
- Location and Accessibility
- Unique Hotel History
- Nearby Attractions
- Guests’ Experiences
- Questions About Staying Here
- Can I Organize Private Events or Functions at the Hotel?
- Do You Offer Any Wellness or Spa Facilities On-Site?
- What Is the Hotel’s Sustainability or Eco-Friendly Approach?
- Is There Any Assistance Available for Guests With Disabilities?
- What Makes This Hotel’s History and Architectural Design Unique?
- Worth The Stay
Hotel Overview
The Huis van Bewaring, or House of Detention, is a renovated prison hotel located in Almelo, Netherlands.
This unique accommodation boasts a 7.4 "Good" rating based on over 1,300 reviews, with guests praising its location, staff, and cleanliness.
The hotel offers a range of room types, from standard rooms to deluxe cells and suites, each featuring spacious, uniquely decorated spaces with large beds, sitting areas, and in some cases, terraces.
Guests can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, use the shared kitchen facilities, and take advantage of additional services like bicycle rentals and laundry.
With its proximity to local attractions and transportation, the Huis van Bewaring provides a one-of-a-kind hotel experience.
Accommodation Details
Guests can choose from a variety of room types at the Huis van Bewaring, each offering unique accommodations.
The Standard Room features 2 single beds, while the Celblok Deluxe and Celblok Suite provide 1 double bed.
For more space, the Portier Kamer has 1 large double bed with a shared toilet, and the Cipier Suite offers 1 double bed.
Guests seeking a loft-style setup can opt for the Loft, which has 1 large double bed.
The Kapel Suite and Apartment both have 1 double bed.
The Celblok Kamer has 2 single beds, and the Cipier Kamer offers 1 double bed.
All rooms are spacious, uniquely decorated, and feature large beds, sitting and dining areas, and terraces.
Guest Services and Amenities
A buffet-style breakfast, featuring kid-friendly options and special diet menus, is available for guests.
The hotel also provides a shared kitchen with a coffee machine and refrigerator for guest use.
Other services include bicycle rental, daily housekeeping, ironing, and laundry, though additional charges may apply.
For guest safety, the hotel features fire extinguishers, CCTV, smoke alarms, and key card access.
The hotel accepts bankcard payments, but cash isn’t accepted.
Policies vary by room type, and charges may apply for children 2 years and older.
Pets are allowed on request, and a genius discount is available for eligible guests.
Policies and Regulations
Check-in at the Huis van Bewaring hotel is available from 15:00 to 22:30, while check-out must occur between 07:00 and 11:00. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. Children of any age are welcome, but charges apply for those 2 years and older. Pets are allowed on request, with additional charges. Accepted payment methods include bank cards, but cash is not accepted.
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Cancellation/Prepayment | Policies vary by room type |
| Child Policies | Children welcome, charges for 2+ years |
| Pets | Allowed on request, charges may apply |
Location and Accessibility
The Huis van Bewaring hotel has a prime location, with shops and restaurants within walking distance and a bus stop a mere 50 meters away.
The train station is also conveniently located, just 300 meters from the hotel. This makes it easy for guests to explore the surrounding area and access transportation to nearby cities.
Enschede and the German border are approximately 30 minutes away by public transport, allowing guests to venture further afield.
The hotel also offers a Genius discount for eligible guests, based on their booking conditions, adding an extra layer of value to their stay.
Unique Hotel History
Originally constructed in the late 19th century as a prison, the Huis van Bewaring has since undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a unique hotel that seamlessly blends its captivating history with modern hospitality.
Once a place of incarceration, the former penitentiary now offers guests the opportunity to experience the building’s rich past firsthand.
Rooms are meticulously designed, retaining original architectural features that evoke the structure’s former purpose, while providing all the comforts of a contemporary hotel.
This one-of-a-kind property invites travelers to enjoy the intriguing history of Almelo, creating an unforgettable and truly unique stay.
Nearby Attractions
Guests staying at the Huis van Bewaring can easily explore the vibrant city of Almelo and its surrounding attractions. The hotel’s central location puts visitors just steps away from the charming Marktplein, the heart of Almelo’s historic downtown.
From there, guests can discover:
- The Heracles Almelo football stadium, home to the city’s professional soccer team
- Windmill de Leeuw, a beautifully preserved 19th-century windmill overlooking the Aa-stroom river
- The Museum Ledeboer, showcasing the region’s cultural and industrial history
- Stadspark, a lush green space perfect for strolling or relaxing
- The Almelo Canals, offering scenic boat tours through the city’s waterways
The hotel’s convenient transportation links make it easy to venture further afield and experience the broader Twente region.
Guests’ Experiences
Guests consistently praise the unique experience of staying in a repurposed prison at the Huis van Bewaring. Many are drawn to the hotel’s history, with visitors delighting in the original cell blocks and guard quarters that have been transformed into charming accommodations.
Guests highlight the attentive staff, who provide a warm welcome and ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel’s cleanliness and central location also earn high marks, with easy access to local shops and transportation.
While the prison-themed decor may not appeal to everyone, most guests find it adds to the hotel’s distinctive character and enhances their overall experience.
Questions About Staying Here
Can I Organize Private Events or Functions at the Hotel?
The hotel offers event spaces and can accommodate private functions, though the specifics aren’t clear from the information provided. Guests should inquire with the hotel about availability and pricing for hosting events or private functions.
Do You Offer Any Wellness or Spa Facilities On-Site?
No, the Huis van Bewaring hotel does not offer any on-site wellness or spa facilities. The hotel focuses on providing unique guest accommodations in a renovated prison setting, rather than spa or relaxation services.
What Is the Hotel’s Sustainability or Eco-Friendly Approach?
The hotel has adopted sustainable practices, including minimizing waste, using energy-efficient LED lighting, and providing guests with eco-friendly toiletries. They also offer local, seasonal produce for their breakfast buffet to reduce their carbon footprint.
Is There Any Assistance Available for Guests With Disabilities?
The hotel offers some accessibility features for guests with disabilities, including ramps, grab bars, and designated accessible rooms. However, additional assistance should be requested in advance to ensure the hotel can accommodate specific needs.
What Makes This Hotel’s History and Architectural Design Unique?
This hotel’s history and architectural design are unique as it was once a functioning prison, now converted into a one-of-a-kind hotel experience. Guests can stay in former prison cells, adding an intriguing element to their accommodation.
Worth The Stay
Stepping into the House of Detention in Almelo, Netherlands, feels like unlocking a time capsule of Dutch history. This former prison has been ingeniously transformed into a captivating hotel that seamlessly blends its intriguing past with modern comforts.
From the moment you check in, you’ll be transported to a world where iron bars and thick stone walls tell tales of centuries gone by. Yet, the stellar service and carefully curated amenities ensure a stay that’s far from punishing. Each room, once a cell, now offers a cozy retreat with a dash of quirkiness that history buffs and adventure seekers alike will appreciate.
After spending a night behind these storied walls, it’s clear why the House of Detention has become a bucket-list destination for travelers craving an out-of-the-ordinary experience. Whether you’re exploring Almelo or just passing through, this hotel promises a stay that’s truly arresting – in the best possible way.
Ready to book your stay in this converted clink? The button below will whisk you away to Booking.com, a tried-and-true reservation platform that typically offers competitive rates and the flexibility of free cancellation. It’s the smart way to lock down your spot in this sought-after slice of Dutch history.