Staying overnight in a former prison

Former prisons where you can now spend the night
There are currently just over 20 prisons in the Netherlands where people spend the night in cells. There used to be a lot more. But because prisoners are more often given house arrest or community service these days, many prisons have been closed. Some of these prisons have been demolished (such as the famous Bijlmerbajes). However, there are also prisons that have been given another purpose. For example, there are former prisons in the Netherlands that have been converted into beautiful hotels where you can stay overnight. In these hotels you can often still see the old elements of the prison so you sleep in a unique environment with a special atmosphere. Also on Vipio you can find some former prisons where you can spend the night. Check out these prisons below and book a nice room directly on Vipio.

Sleeping in an old prison

1. Former prison in Alkmaar
This stately prison in downtown Alkmaar was recently transformed into a beautiful boutique hotel. The former cells where, among others, notorious criminals Willem Holleeder, Stanley Hillis and master swindler Ari Olivier have been held are now luxury rooms that guarantee a pleasant stay. The old stairs and cell doors of the prison are all still authentic. As a result, the hotel has a unique and special atmosphere that cannot be compared to anything else. It has several rooms and suites that can all be booked at Vipio. View this overnight stay

2. Former prison in Almelo
Are you also curious what it's like to spend a night in a real prison? Then spend the night in the former prison in Almelo. The nearly 100-year-old prison has been home to a hotel since 2006. The renovation has been done in such a way that the unique features of the prison have been preserved. Sleeping in the historical prison is already an experience in itself, but this suite makes the night even more special. You sleep in the old chapel / church of the prison. The old chapel is now a beautiful design suite where you can experience a wonderful romantic night. In the middle of the room is a large double bed. Furthermore, there is a beautiful designer bathtub on legs. Because of the stained glass windows you also really feel like you are sleeping in an old chapel. View this accommodation

3. Oldest prison in the Netherlands
This tower from 1491 belongs to one of the oldest former prisons in the Netherlands. The tower was originally built as part of the city gate of Middelburg (Zeeland). In 1610, the building was given the function of a city prison and the tower was feared by many prisoners. Fortunately, those days are far behind us and for several years there has been the possibility to spend the night in the fantastically refurbished tower. Of course, the room is equipped with all modern conveniences. After a day of fresh air, take a bath and then sleep in the large queen-size double bed. You can also enjoy the view of the sea and the setting sun from your private terrace. In short, the perfect overnight stay for a romantic night or weekend away. View this accommodation

4. Former constable's cell
In the old town hall of Lage and Hooge Zwaluwe and Moerdijk, a unique boutique hotel was opened in 2021. The hotel has some beautiful rooms with a unique atmosphere. The veldwachter (former name of the order officer in smaller municipalities) used to have 2 small cells (prisons) in the town hall. The cells were merged into 1 special hotel room. In the room you can still see some nice elements from that time. Important info; they are real former cells which means that there are no windows that look out and also cannot be opened. View this special overnight stay

Besides these former prisons, there are many other historical buildings on Vipio where you can stay overnight. For example, how about a 400-year-old mill, an old pumping station or a former school? Quickly check out all the historical buildings on Vipio and book the accommodation where you want to stay.

Offer your own former prison on Vipio
Are you the landlord of a former prison and would you like to rent it on Vipio? You can! Please contact our team at sales@vipio.com and we will gladly tell you more about renting through Vipio. Also visit our provider page with more information about the benefits of Vipio.