It is situated close to the Damsterdiep [nl] – a channel connecting the city of Groningen to Delfzijl – on two artificial dwelling hills, known locally as 'Wierden'.

The Damsterdiep [nl] is a channel connecting the city of Groningen to the coastal town of Delfzijl, allowing access to the Dutch most eastern part of the Wadden Sea, the Eems.

Historically the channel can be divided into two parts at the village of Ten Post, approximately 5 km south-west of Wirdum.

The south-western part of the channel, having been constructed much later, was not exposed to such influences allowing it to maintain its original straight course.

The estates, lying next to the Damsterdiep, offered easy trade access and a large brickyard was built in the early 19th century, the ruins of which - including an iconic 30-metre chimney - still stand.