The estate dated back already to the 13th century and came into the hands of the von Ranzau family where it stayed until 1759. It was acquired by the von Schimmelmann family who was forced to sell it during the Great Depression to The Verein Schloss Ahrensburg e.V., supported by the state. In 2002  the castle and the six hectares of park were transferred to a private foundation that since 2007 had to operate without public subsidies.

The museum is open to the public and can be rented and used for cultural, corporate and private events, such as concerts, receptions, weddings...

For detailed information, see website.