Bird's-eye view of Vlaardingen

Today was the Lentemarkt (Spring market/fair) in Vlaardingen. The city came to life with numerous flowers/plants stalls, arts & crafts, edible goodies, animal farm/petting zoo, street artists and children's rides, centred mainly around the Grote Kerk (great church) in the centre of the old architectural part of the city.

It was a lovely event, definitely the best in Vlaardingen that I've visited so far, great atmosphere and lots of sunshine certainly helps but my highlight of the day had to be climbing the church tower which is only open to the public a handful of times a year. For a paltry fee of 50 cents we had a guided tour to the top including the history of the tower (thanks to the lovely chap next to me who translated thoroughly for me!) The reward for climbing so many steep, narrow steps: beautiful views over Vlaardingen. I chose this one for today's blip, looking down over the city hall and part of the market. Fab Dutch flag stalls! :)