Goes (sounds like hoose) was founded in the 10th century and received city rights in 1405. A church (kerk) in honor of St. Maria Magdalena was built in the 12th century and a market was built near it. During the Eight Year War, the Dutch besieged the city with help from British troops. Later, it was taken from the Spanish and a defensive wall was built around the city, some of which still stands today.

Even though The Netherlands was neutral during World War One, a British bomber dropped on bomb on the city and destroyed one house (huis) and killed one person. During World War Two, the Germans did occupy the city, but did not suffer extensive damage like Middelburg did.