Asylum Court Gardens Brussels

The Asylum Court in central Brussels is a remarkable piece of urban heritage: a walled courtyard around an eighteenth-century building that served for centuries as a place of social shelter. The courtyard was restored and converted into a public garden, preserving the historic walls, old trees and symmetrical layout. The gardens form an unexpected oasis in the middle of a densely built neighbourhood in the Brussels city centre. It is a quiet place to take a break during a city tour, or to reflect on a lesser-known chapter of Brussels history.

Accessibility is well thought through. Access through the main gate is step-free and the paths within the courtyard are paved with natural-stone clinker, level and wide enough for a wheelchair or mobility scooter. A central loop links the various garden parterres and offers views of the old facades. A partially accessible toilet is provided in the visitor pavilion. Benches are placed at regular intervals, with plenty of shaded spots under the old lime trees. Text panels recount the history of the courtyard, placed at reading height.

The gardens are free of charge during the day. Street parking is limited; nearby underground car parks have accessible spaces. By public transport the courtyard is reachable from a metro or tram stop a few minutes' walk away. Combine with a visit to the Warande Park, the Atomium or the Cinquantenaire Park for a full day in the capital.