Museum of Lighthouse History | Nakkehoved Lighthouse

Photo: Sarah Green

Nakkehoved Fyr

Photo: Tine Uffelmann

Nakkehoved Fyr aftenlys

Photo: Museum Nordsjælland

Nakkehoved Fyr

The beautiful white Nakkehoved Lighthouse towers high above the blue-green sea surface. Since 1772 it has been warning shipping of the dangerous grounds near Gilleleje, where many ships sank on the international sailing route through the Kattegat.

Today you can visit the Lighthouse History Museum, which tells Danish and international lighthouse history.

Nakkehoved has two lighthouses.

The Nakkehoved Lighthouse consists of two lighthouses, one east, and one west, erected in 1772. There is only one lighthouse on Kullen on the opposite Swedish coast. Thus, international shipping could differentiate between the Danish and Swedish coasts based on the number of lighthouses.

Both lighthouses are attached to a lighthouse keeper's residence. The house at the western lighthouse is now a museum. The two lighthouses of Nakkehoved are nationally and internationally a rarity and are therefore protected.

The Museum of Lighthouse History

In 1772 two coal-fired lighthouses were built at Nakkehoved to protect shipping from the north from stranding on the dangerous north coast. The lighthouse Nakkehoved Østre Fyr is one of the few remaining coal-fired lighthouses in the world.

In 2005 the western lighthouse opened as a museum of international lighthouse history. From the tower's top, you have a fantastic view of the Øresund, the Kattegat, and the inland with the Grib forest.

Museum shop

The museum has a small museum shop where you can find souvenirs, old-fashioned toys, books, postcards, and posters. It is also possible to buy cold and hot drinks.

A beautiful excursion destination

Nakkehoved has been a popular destination since the 1830s. Enjoy the beautiful sea view and the incredible coastal landscape, take a walk along Fyrstien and go down the stairs to the beach and jetty at Fyrkroen. There are tables and benches around the lighthouse, so enjoy your homemade picnic with a sea view. Or visit the cozy Fyrkroen nearby for a delicious meal.

Practical information

Hotels nearby of Museum of Lighthouse History | Nakkehoved Lighthouse

  • Hotel Gilleleje Strand

    2.45 km

    Hotel Gilleleje Strand is a tradition-rich seaside hotel from 1896, which recently has been totally renovated. The 25 rooms of the hotel differ, but they have the magnificent location in common: You can stay in the middle of Gilleleje.

    Read more : Hotel Gilleleje Strand

  • Marienlyst Strandhotel

    18.2 km

    The internationally known Beach Hotel Marienlyst of Elsinore was built in 1901 at the waterfront as a part of the former baths “Cuur og Badeanstalt” of Marienlyst Castle. There are restaurant and bars, lounge, casino and large terraces overlooking the Sound. Close to Castle and the art museum Louisiana.
    Read more : Marienlyst Strandhotel

  • Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel

    22.26 km

    Magnificent forests, lakes and sports routes surround you here. The city and nature have inspired the hotel. A small village has been created here with winding avenues, green plants and sunshine. The rooms are suitable for families, business or couples on holiday.
    Read more : Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel

  • Skjalm Hvide Hotel

    33.92 km

    Skjalm Hvide Hotel is close to sights and attractions of both Copenhagen and northern Zealand. The hotel is an ideal starting point for day trips and wonderful excursions. The beautifully appointed hotel with its newly and tastefully refurbished rooms is perfect for relaxation and recharging your batteries.

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  • Skovshoved Hotel

    43.08 km

    The beautiful seaside hotel, one of the world’s hippest, according to Condé Nast Traveler, is loved by guests from all over the globe. They come, not only to enjoy the beautiful location and the stunning views of the Sound, but also for the exquisite food.

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  • Hotel Astoria - SDH Partner Hotel

    51.47 km

    If you want to be centrally located in inner Copenhagen, you can safely choose to stay overnight at Hotel Astoria. Here you only have a few minutes' walk to Tivoli, delicious restaurants, cafes, Strøget and more fantastic city options.
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  • Hotel Hebron - SDH Partner Hotel

    51.51 km

    Centrally located in the city center, this Copenhagen hotel is minutes from the beautiful Tivoli Gardens and 'Stroget', Europe's longest pedestrian street.
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  • Absalon Hotel

    51.68 km

    Absalon Hotel is a unique, modern yet classic hotel in central Copenhagen. The wonderful bedrooms are furnished with collections from the international home and lifestyle company Designers Guild. Relax and plan your day in the comfortable lobby lounge, and enjoy a refreshment. Walled garden with miniature golf.
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  • Taastrup Park Hotel

    51.86 km

    Taastrup Park Hotel is situated centrally between Roskilde and Copenhagen, not far from the motorway. The hotel has its own free car park and is located just a two-minute walk from Taastrup Station, restaurants and shops. The comfortable rooms and delicious breakfast buffet keep our guests coming back again and again.
    Read more : Taastrup Park Hotel