Herengracht 172312 LA LeidenHavenwijk-Zuid

‘A Distinguished Canal House, a Place to Stay’ Living on the Herengracht is something truly special. This is not just another street, but a place where Leiden’s rich history can still be seen and felt — in the façades, in the water, and in the countless architectural details. At number 17 stands a canal house unlike many we encounter, where that history remains beautifully tangible. A characteristic property dating from approximately 1750, offering an impressive 196 m² of living space, situated on a surprisingly spacious 151 m² plot for a city-centre location. From the moment you arrive, it is immediately clear that this is no ordinary home — this is a residence with grandeur, generous proportions, and a rear entrance leading to the Langestraat, including two private parking spaces on site. In addition, the rear section has its own cadastral registration with a residential zoning designation. That alone makes this property truly unique — a rare luxury in the historic heart of Leiden. The Herengracht is one of Leiden’s most renowned canals: peaceful, stately, and yet right in the centre of the city. Step outside the front door and you are within walking distance of the vibrant city centre, including the Nieuwe Rijn, Botermarkt, Nieuwstraat, and Haarlemmerstraat, all offering a rich variety of shops, specialist stores, cafés, and restaurants. Think artisan bakeries, quality coffee bars, charming boutiques, the twice-weekly market, and a growing number of new hotspots. Then there is the canal itself, providing tranquillity, reflection, and an ever-changing view throughout the seasons — always atmospheric and captivating. With the appropriate permit, there is even the possibility to moor a private boat nearby. Behind the proud façade lies a world of space and character: a large yet intimate home filled with natural light. You enter through an entrance hall that perfectly reflects the property’s distinguished architectural style, with high ceilings, natural stone flooring, wall panelling, original beams, and a carefully preserved sense of history. From here there is access to a guest toilet with washbasin, storage cupboards, cloakroom, and utility meter cupboard. Both the sitting room and the kitchen can also be reached from the hallway. The living spaces on the ground floor are generous and versatile, offering beautifully proportioned rooms with elegant sightlines. At the front of the property is the kitchen, fitted in a U-shaped layout that perfectly complements the style of the house through its classic panelled cabinetry and traditional finishes. The space has been thoughtfully and efficiently designed, making optimal use of the full width. Along one wall is a tall cabinet arrangement with integrated oven, creating both practicality and a clean, refined appearance. The dining table is beautifully positioned overlooking the canal, allowing you to enjoy views of the water and the constantly changing streetscape while dining. The beamed ceiling, finished in a historical colour palette, enhances the atmosphere and gives the room a warm and lived-in elegance. The sitting room at the rear overlooks the garden and benefits from wonderful natural light throughout the day thanks to the glazed conservatory roof. Large windows create an open and airy feel, while the positioning of the house also offers an intimate sense of privacy. This is the kind of room designed for comfort: a spacious seating area with a large sofa, deep armchairs, floor-to-ceiling bookcases, a media cabinet, and space for artwork. The French doors create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, making the connection with the garden wonderfully tangible. One of the greatest assets of Herengracht 17 is undoubtedly the rear garden. This is not just a typical city garden, but a surprisingly spacious outdoor area that offers genuine possibilities. Green, sheltered, and exceptionally private, it is a place to relax, dine, and unwind in complete tranquillity. The orientation allows you to enjoy the sun at various moments throughout the day. Here, you truly experience outdoor living in the middle of the city — something exceptionally rare in Leiden, particularly in combination with a plot of this size. The tranquillity is remarkable. Even in the evening, the raised terrace still enjoys sunlight. Despite the central location, both the house and the garden feel secluded and private, like a hidden world within the city. Then there is the rear access. Via the Langestraat you reach the rear of the property, where two private parking spaces are secured behind an electric garage door. Without exaggeration, this is an extraordinary addition in the city centre. No searching for parking or dealing with permits — simply drive onto your own property with ease. For anyone wishing to enjoy city living without compromising on convenience, this is a decisive advantage. The front of the house is equally enjoyable, with benches included in the sale offering the perfect place to enjoy the afternoon sun by the canal. The first floor forms a complete living level in itself, where space, light, and character come together beautifully. The classic layout features front and rear rooms connected en suite, exactly as one would hope for in a property of this calibre. At the front is a room overlooking the canal, currently arranged as a luxurious home office. Three large windows provide lively yet calming views across the water and the stately buildings opposite. The original deep-red marble fireplace serves as a stunning focal point rich in detail. The en-suite connection to the rear room, currently used as a bedroom, creates a pleasant flow between the spaces. Ideal as a combination of living room and study or library. The proportions are excellent, the sightlines long, and the atmosphere warm and layered. Particularly striking are the ornamental ceilings — subtle yet defining elements that add height, elegance, and historical character to the home. This floor also includes a separate toilet with washbasin and a spacious bathroom accessible both from the landing and directly from the bedroom. The bathroom is fully equipped with a bathtub, walk-in shower, and double washbasin. Functional in layout and complete in every respect. This is a floor offering exceptional flexibility. Whether you choose to combine living and working, or create multiple living spaces, the layout provides complete freedom while maintaining the home’s sense of character and history throughout. Continuing upstairs, the second floor once again surprises with its spaciousness and practicality. This level has an entirely different atmosphere from the floors below. More understated in character, it possesses a charm all its own. The slightly lower ceilings and exposed beams create a warm, almost intimate ambiance that contrasts beautifully with the grandeur of the lower floors. There are two nearly identical bedrooms, both comfortably proportioned and easy to furnish. The visible beam construction enhances the authentic feel of the rooms. In addition, there is a separate laundry room, neatly tucked away, a separate toilet with washbasin, and a storage room providing additional storage space. This floor may feel less grand, but it is exceptionally practical and perfectly suited to everyday life — functional, atmospheric, and fully aligned with the overall character of the home. Herengracht 17 is ideally suited to lovers of characterful homes in Leiden’s historic city centre — for those not seeking something ordinary, but something unique. A property with history, space, and possibilities. It is ideal for a family wishing to enjoy generous city-centre living with schools and amenities nearby, or for a couple looking to combine living and working from home with office space integrated into the property. It is equally attractive to enthusiasts of monumental properties wishing to add their own personal touch. The combination of location, size, garden, and private parking makes this property exceptionally rare. And it is precisely that rarity which makes it so attractive — both now and in the future. Accessibility is excellent. Leiden Central Station is just a short cycle ride away and offers fast connections to The Hague, Amsterdam, and Schiphol Airport. Major roads towards the A4 and A44 are easily accessible, making this location highly suitable for commuters as well. Schools, childcare facilities, cinemas, restaurants, and sports facilities are all nearby, alongside cultural destinations such as museums, music venues, and theatres. Allow yourself this moment and come experience it in person. Pause upon arrival, take a deep breath, and let the atmosphere of the place speak to you. Imagine daily life here — the light filling the rooms, the view across the canal, the tranquillity in the heart of the city. Chances are, only one thought will remain: this is where I want to stay. What this property offers: * A characteristic canal house dating from approximately 1750 with approx. 196 m² of living space; * Situated on the Herengracht in Leiden with unobstructed canal views; * The current owners have lived here for 40 years; * A surprisingly spacious garden with excellent privacy; * Rear access via the Langestraat with two private parking spaces behind an electric garage door; * Authentic details including ornamental ceilings, fireplaces, panelled doors, and exposed beams; * Generous living spaces with high ceilings and large windows; * Front and rear en-suite rooms on the first floor; * Multiple bedrooms spread across the floors; * Practical layout including laundry room, storage room, and multiple toilets; * A unique combination of living, working, and enjoying life in the city centre; * Separate cadastral registration at the rear with potential independent residential zoning (subject to application with the Municipality of Leiden); * Within walking distance of shops, restaurants, schools, and Leiden Central Station; * A home with history, space, and possibilities in a location that rarely becomes available. Important additional information: * The seller recently commissioned a structural inspection report by Perfectkeur to provide insight into the excellent maintenance condition of the property. This report is available for viewing during inspections. * Energy label D — highly favourable for a listed or characteristic property. * Foundation report recently completed and available for valuation purposes. No irregularities noted. Since 1 April, a foundation report has become mandatory for NWWI valuation reports. * Genuine video presentation available on Funda and lekmakelaars.nl — not a slideshow of photos. * For an even clearer and more spacious impression, please view the 2D and 3D floor plans on Funda. * Virtual tour available through Matterport visualisation, allowing you to explore the entire property interactively and determine your own walking route. * An age clause (property older than 50 years) and materials/asbestos clause apply. Completion in consultation (preferred completion: end of 2026). Any further questions? Please feel free to contact us — we are happy to assist you. General Information: * Parties are only legally bound once a written or electronically signed purchase agreement has been executed. * The purchase agreement will be drawn up in accordance with the latest NVM model contract. * Additional clauses may apply, including an age clause for properties older than 50 years and a materials/asbestos clause for properties built before 1993. The buyer will be required to provide a bank guarantee/security deposit equal to 10% of the purchase price. * This information has been compiled by LEK Makelaars with due care; however, no rights may be derived from its contents. No liability is accepted for any inaccuracies, omissions, or consequences thereof. All stated measurements and surface areas are indicative. NVM terms and conditions and the usual general conditions apply. * LEK Makelaars respects the privacy of its clients, interested parties, bidders, and buyers. Although the greatest possible care is taken, LEK Makelaars cannot be held liable if information is unlawfully obtained by third parties.