WELCOME TO THE HEMBRUG SITE
On the North Sea Canal, opposite Amsterdam, lies a 42-hectare site that was off limits for more than a century. Weapons, ammunition and even chemical warfare agents were made and tested here. The site is still the geographical heart of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today it is a creative hotspot with more than sixty businesses, culture and events.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to book? We recommend it at weekends and when the weather is good.
Is there parking? Yes, free and right outside.
Do you have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options? Yes, many dishes are vegan and the kitchen is happy to help.
Can I order pizza to take away? Yes, our pizzas are also available for takeaway.
Can we come as a group? Of course. Send us a request and we will get everything ready.
Are children welcome? Absolutely. There is a play corner indoors on the mezzanine and outside on the terrace, and baby changing facilities for the little ones.
Can I bring my dog? Yes, dogs are very welcome.
Is LAB-44 wheelchair accessible? There is an accessible toilet. Feel free to call us beforehand and we will tell you exactly what is possible and make sure you have a good spot.
THINGS TO DO
EXPLORE THE SITE
The Hembrug site (Hembrugterrein) is more than a lovely place to eat. Combine your visit to LAB‑44 with museums, art and a walk around the old weapons factory.
HEMBRUG MUSEUM
Open-air museum about the weapons and munitions factory that operated here until 2003. Free to visit, with guided tours for groups on request.
MUSEUM OF HUMANITY
Thousands of portraits and personal stories by photographer Ruben Timman, in a former munitions factory. Also great as a team outing.
ARTZAANSTAD
Art lending and a gallery of contemporary art, within walking distance of the lab.
ZAMU COMING SOON
Sixteen industrial halls, each devoted to the work of one artist, with a garden by Piet Oudolf. The new museum landscape of the Zaan region.
HEMPONT FERRY
Free by ferry from Amsterdam, day and night. Bring your bike and you'll be on our terrace in no time.
STUDIOS AND DESIGN
Studios, the BIND cultural centre and the Vitra Circle Store. There is always something new to discover.
PACKAGES
DAYS OUT WITH THE LAB
HEMBRUG DAY OUT
A guided tour or a walk past the Hembrug Museum and the historic halls, followed by lunch at LAB‑44.
ART AND DINNER
First the Museum of Humanity or ArtZaanstad, then dinner in the lab.
BEER AND BITES
A tasting in the Pasteur Lab among the old brewing kettles, with our own LABO 44 and the beers of HOOP brewery.
Everything tailored, for small groups and large parties. Together we'll turn your experiment into a new invention.