Things to do with kids in Kraainem

Things to do with kids in Kraainem

1. See

   't Kapelleke

   The chapel referred to as 't kapelleke by local residents (literally, the chapel) is located at the intersection point of the Jozef van Hovestraat, the Lijsterbessenbomenlaan, the Bossstraat and the Kapellelaan. At the time of its construction in 1932, there were no buildings around its current site, and with the exception of the Jozef van Hovestraat, all streets were unpaved roads. By 1932 however, the crossing became increasingly important because of the expansion of the Laag Kraainem residential area, and the construction of the Salesian Monastery along the Kapellelaan 1 km further between 1928 and 1930. As more streets were added in later years, a roundabout was constructed to divert traffic away from the immediate surroundings of the chapel and preserve the original roads. The chapel is one of the most iconic landmarks of Kraainem, and known by local children because of the adjacent kindergarten and primary school. The chapel is completely surrounded by buildings, and therefor lost most of its authentic outlook. Can be easily reached from Low Kraainem by following the Jozef van Hovestraat up the hill, around a 5-min walk.

   Free

2. Eat

   De Lijsterbes

   Small restaurant in the Cultural Centre in the Kraainem town center. It specializes in traditional Flemish dishes (paling in 't groen, stoofvlees, tomate crevette, and many others). Ask for the dish of the day (dagschotel) for €12. Mostly visited by locals, and a great opportunity to get to know local residents and initiate smalltalk with them. Very kids friendly. Reservations are mandatory in the weekend.

   €12–20

3. Buy

   Delhaize

   Supermarket specialised in fine foods and luxury products. Too expensive for general grocery shopping, but a great place to search for Belgian specialties (chocolate, Speculoos spread, beers), souvenirs, and presents for family when you return home.

   Mon–Thu 08:00–20:00, Fri 08:00–21:00

4. See

   Eclair Park

   Eclairpark

   A small park in Low Kraainem, the counterpart of the Jourdain park in High Kraainem. Willow trees are the symbol of Kraainem, and the willow tree of the Eclair park is one of the last remaining, after the iconic willow tree in front of the Saint Pancras Church was chopped during the renovation of the church in 2011. The pond is fed by a small spring, which used to be a source of fresh water for the inhabitants of Low Kraainem, but due to ground water contamination, the spring water is no longer suitable for human consumption. The pond drains into the Kleine Maalbeek, which in turns merges into the Woluwe 200 m further. The pond is a rich biome, as evidenced by the countless water plants in and around it. The pond also functions as flood water storage. A small recreation area makes the park a popular destination for families with young kids in Low Kraainem.

   Open now · open 24 hours·Free

5. Do

   F.C. Kraainem

   Kraainem Football

   The football club of Kraainem is known for its multiculturalism, uniting over 300 players from 40 countries in sports. Aside from 2 senior teams, the club is carried by youngsters between 6 and 21 years old. Football courses are available to children in that age range in Dutch, English and French. Matches are played in the stadium at the Bosstraat, which has a rich history on its own. Entering the stadium is free, even during matches, only seats must be paid for. The cantina serves drinks and snacks, and hosts occasional cultural events.

   Free

6. Eat

   Fu-Lai

   Asian cuisine in a relaxing setting. Fairly priced. The large aquariums with countless exotic fish next to the tables are a popular attraction for kids.

   €77–20

7. See

   Jourdain Castle

   Jourdainkasteel

   The castle was built as a farmstead with a U-shape surrounded by multiple vegetable gardens, as documented in 1771. In 1846, the farmstead was expanded, surrounded by a brick wall, and transformed into a closed farmstead (vierkantshoeve). A barn was also added, but demolished in the late 20th century. It was purchased by doctor Delphin Gaillard in 1883 together with the surrounding park. He gave the 18th century farmstead its current castle appearance, with emphasis on traditional style elements: brick masonry, corners of white sandstone, stepped gables, small towers and a roof resembling a Chinese pagoda. The castle and park were then sold to Victor Jourdain who gave his name to the castle, and in 1980 the property was transferred to the Kraainem municipality which restored the building and used it as community center. The last restoration dates from 2003, when a lift was added. The castle is occasionally opened to the public for cultural events, and is classified as Flemish Architectural Heritage. It hosted a florist until late 1990s, which occupied the large veranda. Recreation grounds with a children's farm make the castle a popular attraction for local families with kids.

8. Eat

   Lotus

   Chinese restaurant right across Eclair park, a few minutes walking from Low Kraainem. Mid-range, good value. Accommodation for larger groups, for example family celebration events. Kids friendly. Reservations are recommended.

   Tue–Sun 12:00–14:45, 18:00–22:00

9. Eat

   San Tucci

   A fine dining Italian restaurant, specializing in pasta dishes and antipasti. They don't serve pizza, and the owner will gladly explain to you the logic behind that decision if you ask for it. A romantic setting, 15-minute walk from the Kraainem town centre. Not suitable for families with kids. The restaurant is almost always fully booked, so reservations are mandatory.

   Tue–Sat 12:00–14:30, 18:00–22:00; Sun 12:00–14:30·€10–25

10. Eat

    Wok House

    A Chinese self-service restaurant with a massive buffet including warm and cold appetizers, sushi, dim-sums, soup, salad bar, wok and desserts. On Sundays and holidays, teppanyaki is also served at an additional cost. Good choice for family events and large groups, or for dining or dinner with kids. Can be reached easily with bus 358, 351, 410, 359 or 318. Closed on Tuesdays. Reservation is usually not necessary. Prices range from €10.90 for lunch during the week to €22.50 for lunch and dinner during the weekends, including teppanyaki. Reduction for children.

    Mon–Sat 11:30–14:30, 17:30–11:00, Sun 11:30–15:30, 17:30–11:00

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Kraainem (CC BY-SA 4.0).