A town of silk and velvet: Krefeld

Krefeld isn't like other towns. Actually, it is three towns: neo-classical Krefeld, baroque Uerdingen and medieval Linn with its castle. It also includes three villages, Fischeln with its Romanesque-Gothic church, Bockum with its villas and mansions and picturesque Hüls. Over time, these disparate places have grown together to form one town, but the different parts are still easily distinguished, making three, or even six, very good reasons to visit this centre of German textile manufacturing.

Fabrics fit for the crowned heads of Europe

The town of silk and velvet: in the 18th century Krefeld was famous for its textile industry, supplying velvet, silk and brocade to a great many countries. Sumptuous fabrics from Krefeld were the natural choice for emperors, kings and church rulers. The town's many weavers are commemorated with the statue of Master Ponzelar, a silk weaver carrying a roll of cloth on his shoulder. Production took place in the many small weavers' houses, which doubled as workshops and living space. Some of them remain to this day and are now protected by preservation orders.

Textiles still dominate the town. Every September local retailers, designers and fashion schools present their latest autumn and winter collections in fabulous shows interspersed with spectacular dance performances – the largest outdoor fashion show in the world. This is followed in the evening by live music and after-show parties, and the restaurants are always packed to the rafters. On Whitsun weekend, the medieval flax market is held around Linn Castle and in the old quarter. This is now one of Germany's largest crafts markets. On the subject of food and drink, in Krefeld this can be an experience in itself, as the town has a great tradition of local delicacies. A good place to try them are the quaint brewpubs, often dating back to the 19th century, which offer dishes like Rhenish mussels or sauerbraten, washed down with freshly drawn altbier.

From museums to steam engines: activities and attractions in Krefeld

Krefeld also has much to offer when it comes to culture and entertainment: a range of theatres, three first-class art museums, the German Textile Museum, the Museum of Silk Culture and a vibrant independent art scene. Leisure activities are also well catered for, with a zoo, the historical steam train 'Schluff', a racecourse, the Elfrather See lakeside recreation park, Linn Castle and a hunting lodge next to a museum with an interesting cultural heritage collection. All in all, there's much more to Krefeld than being a good spot for buying a new neck tie.