The predominantly rural area it is situated in is known as the Achterhoek.

Hengelo (Gelderland) is famous for various horse-related activities (markets, horse-jumping, etc.).

Once a year a motorbike race takes place just outside the town on a streetcircuit.

Prior to 2005, Hengelo (Gld) was a municipality with approx.

It was formed in January 2005 as part of a large-scale administrative reorganisation in the Netherlands (gemeentelijke herindeling).