Selsø Castle was first mentioned in 1288 and for many years served as an episcopal estate under Roskilde. In 1829 the last resident passed away, and the castle fell into a “Sleeping Beauty” slumber for 150 years until a careful restoration brought the building back to life. Today, you can explore one of Denmark’s best-preserved manor houses.
Experience life at the manor
Inside the castle, you can discover what everyday life looked like 200 years ago. The tall windows let in a special light reminiscent of the paintings of Vilhelm Hammershøi, and on a guided tour you can see both the Baroque Hall and the well-preserved basement kitchen.
A museum for the whole family
Selsø Castle is also an exciting place for children. You can download a treasure hunt game where you look for objects in the rooms and eventually guess a secret word. In the cellar there is a small woodworking shop with traditional tools, and in the kitchen children can sit and colour. On the first floor, you can even dress up in historical costumes and immerse yourself in a bygone era.
Podcast and stories
For children aged 8 and up, there is the podcast Fantastic Tales from Fjordlandet. Here you can listen to stories about castle owners, secret rooms and royal connections – all while standing in the authentic surroundings.
Outdoor life and nature experiences
Outside the castle you can follow the avenue to the adventure thicket, where you can build dens, go on a snail hunt or explore nature. There is also a picnic shelter where you can enjoy your packed lunch. When you are ready to stretch your legs, the Selsø Route awaits – a 4.3 km hiking trail that takes you past bird-rich wetlands and scenic viewpoints.
Part of Skjoldungernes Land National Park
Selsø Castle lies within Skjoldungernes Land National Park, which surrounds Roskilde Fjord, one of Zealand’s most important fjords. Here you can go hiking, borrow a canoe or even spend the night in a floating shelter – combining your castle visit with unique nature experiences along the fjord.
Please note: Parking is available at Selsø Church, Selsøvej 28.
