Diever

Diever is situated in the municipality of Westerveld, in the south-west of the province of Drenthe. This characteristic village with a central green lies right on the edge of the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, one of the largest contiguous nature reserves in the Netherlands. Vast forests, heathland, drifting sand areas and stream valleys are literally within walking distance of the village, which is also known as the gateway to the National Park. Thanks to this unique location, Diever is an ideal base for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers

Diever is best known as the Netherlands’ Shakespeare village. Since 1946, William Shakespeare’s plays have been performed in the atmospheric Shakespeare Theatre, set in the heart of the woods. Diever is also popular for its location next to the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, the historic Brink and the many opportunities for walking and cycling. The combination of culture, nature and a charming village centre makes Diever one of the most popular ‘Brink’ villages in Drenthe.

Diever has been known as the Netherlands’ Shakespeare village since 1946. Every year, William Shakespeare’s famous plays are performed in the atmospheric open-air theatre, set in the heart of the woods. This makes Diever home to the longest-running Shakespeare tradition in the Netherlands, attracting visitors from all over the country.

As well as the annual summer production, Diever is also home to the Globe Theatre, where performances and activities are organised all year round. The theatre’s special place in the Dutch theatre world was also evident in 2026, when King Willem-Alexander visited the Shakespeare Theatre to mark its 80th anniversary.

Thanks to this unique tradition, combined with its location on the edge of the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, Diever is a special destination for lovers of both culture and nature.

There’s plenty to do in Diever all year round. Go for a walk or a cycle through the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, catch a performance at the famous Shakespeare Theatre, discover the region’s history at the OERmuseum, or admire Hunebed D52, one of the best-preserved hunebeds in Drenthe. The historic village centre, with its charming Brink, galleries, shops and outdoor cafés, is also well worth a visit.

In summer, Diever really comes alive during the Struunmarkten, when the town centre is filled with market stalls, music, local produce and activities. From Diever, you’re also just a stone’s throw away from the Kale Duinen, the Bosberg and the De Wigwam hiding place, meaning that culture and nature come together perfectly here.

Yes, Diever is one of the most beautiful walking destinations in Drenthe. From the village, you can walk straight into the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, where dozens of walking routes wind through woods, heathland, drifting sand and stream valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass observation towers, small ponds and unusual plants and animals.

Popular walking areas nearby include the Kale Duinen, the Bosberg and the Aekingerzand, one of the largest drifting sand areas in the northern Netherlands. There are also various shorter walks around the village and longer routes for keen walkers. Thanks to its varied natural landscape, Diever is a wonderful walking destination in every season.

The Struunmarkt is a lively combination of a street fair and a flea market and is held several times a year at the market grounds on Bosweg in Diever. You can browse dozens of stalls selling fashion, home accessories, local produce, books, antiques, curiosities and second-hand finds. The friendly atmosphere makes the Struunmarkt a favourite with both locals and tourists.

In 2026, the Struunmarkt will be held on:

• Sunday 26 July
• Sunday 30 August
• Sunday 27 September

The market is open from 11.00 to 17.00 and admission is free. Always check the most up-to-date dates before your visit, as changes or cancellations may occur.

In and around Diever, you’ll find plenty of places to stay. For example, you could opt for a comfortable stay at Landhotel Diever, a holiday at Landgoed 't Wildryck, a camping spot surrounded by nature, or a cosy bed and breakfast in the village. You’ll also find various holiday homes and nature campsites in the area.

Thanks to its location next to the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, Diever is an ideal destination for a weekend break or a longer holiday. From almost any accommodation, you can walk or cycle straight into the countryside.

Diever boasts a surprisingly diverse range of restaurants and cafés. We highly recommend Brasserie PUUR, where you can enjoy coffee with homemade cakes, lunch, drinks or a tapas platter. PUUR is also Diever’s Tourist Information Point (TIP). Here, you can not only enjoy a bite to eat and a drink, but also pick up tourist information, walking and cycling routes, souvenirs and tips on the best sights in the area.

You can also enjoy delicious food at Restaurant Landhotel Diever,'t Keernpunt and Brinkzicht Diever. Around the historic Brink, you’ll find several cosy terraces where you can enjoy lunch, dinner or a drink

Less than a five-minute drive from Diever lies Dieversluis, a charming spot on the Drentse Hoofdvaart where nature, water and fine dining come together. The historic lock has been a recognisable landmark in the area for many years and makes for a lovely stop-off during a walk or cycle ride.

Right next to the lock, you’ll find Restaurant De Sluiswachter, housed in the lock’s former keeper’s cottage. Here, you can enjoy a surprise menu featuring seasonal and, where possible, locally sourced produce in a unique historic setting.

Fancy a speciality beer? Then pop into Fredgie’s, a cosy tasting bar with no fewer than 16 rotating taps and an extensive selection of speciality beers. As well as beer tastings, you can also enjoy plant-based snacks and regular live music.