Things to Do in Velbert

A municipal gallery and event space hosting rotating exhibitions of contemporary art by local and regional artists. The ground-floor exhibitions are always free.

🕐 Tue–Fri 2pm–6pm, Sat–Sun 11am–5pm, closed Mon

💡 The free exhibitions change every six weeks. Call ahead or check the website; the upstairs paid shows are rarely worth the €5 entry.

A striking modern basilica built from rough concrete in the 1960s. Known locally as the 'pilgrimage cathedral', it's a bold example of brutalist architecture.

🕐 Daily 8am – 6pm

💡 Check the noticeboard near the main entrance for free organ recitals, often on Saturday afternoons. The building looks best in overcast light.

A 6km loop trail following the Deilbach river through woodland and past old mill ruins. Flat path suitable for walking or cycling.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Start from the parking area at the end of Deilbachstraße – the trail is less crowded from that end, and you'll see the best section of wildflowers in spring.

A broad valley with a small reservoir, meadows and beech forest. Popular for walking and picnics; has a playground and public barbecue grills.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Take bus 748 to the Hülsenbecke stop – it saves a long uphill walk. The west side of the lake gets afternoon sun, so go late if you want a warm spot.

A medieval moated castle dating from the 13th century. The grounds and outer courtyard are free to explore; the museum inside costs €4.

🕐 Grounds open daily 8am – 8pm; museum Tue–Sun 11am–5pm

💡 Visit on a weekday morning to have the park almost to yourself. The cafe in the gatehouse does a decent slice of cake for under €3.