Schloss Neuenhof

Schloss Neuenhof is a water castle in the south of Lüdenscheid, set in the Elspetal valley. The main building is a two-storey rectangular block with water on all sides. Two towers with curved roofs stand at the courtyard façade, and between them a carved coat of arms marks the marriage table of 1714. The castle has belonged to the von Neuhoff family since the 14th century. After a fire in 1693 the house was rebuilt and extended, and in 1808 the northern forecourt was added. In the 20th century the estate served as a military headquarters before returning to private ownership in 1974. Visitors see the moated main building and the courtyard with its 18th- and 19th-century farm wings. An ornate wrought-iron gate stands at the eastern end of the forecourt. Below the castle lie remains of an old hammer mill, showing that iron was worked here as early as the 14th century.