Borken

Borken is an administrative district in North Rhine-Westphalia that stretches across flat land in the northwest of the state. The area borders the Netherlands directly and includes both countryside and several smaller towns.

The current administrative structure came together in 1975 through the merger of smaller districts and incorporation of the city of Bocholt. This reform aimed to create larger and more efficient units.

The name comes from the town of Borken, and its heraldic anchors recall earlier administrative units of the region. These symbols still appear on official documents and public buildings throughout the area today.

You can reach most places in the district by car or through local bus lines connecting larger communities. Many areas are rural in character, so planning your route ahead is worthwhile.

The location allows you to visit both German and Dutch territory in one day, as the border often runs through fields. In some villages, streets cross between both countries several times.

Location: Münster Government Region

Inception: 1975

Capital city: Borken

Elevation above the sea: 65 m

Part of: Münsterland

Shares border with: Steinfurt, Coesfeld, Recklinghausen, Wesel, County of Bentheim, Kleve

Website: https://kreis-borken.de

GPS coordinates: 51.91667,6.91667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:55