Experience everyday Danish life through several hundred years at Frilandsmuseet Hjerl Hede in West Jutland. Explore historic farms, houses and workshops that tell the story of rural life, old crafts, building traditions and customs through the ages.
The open-air museum lies in a scenic area by Lake Flyndersø and features historic buildings moved here from different parts of Denmark. Among them you will find Vinkelgården, Jutland's oldest farmhouse, historic farmyards, a church and old workshops.
Together, the buildings offer a glimpse into how people have lived, worked and arranged their everyday lives for generations.
In summer and on the three Christmas weekends, the museum comes alive with the traditional living history that has been the hallmark of Hjerl Hede for almost 100 years. Meet people in period costume, see traditional crafts, and gain an insight into everyday work – from cooking and needlework to farming and craftsmanship. You can visit the historic parlours, explore the workshops, shop at the old grocer's and buy freshly baked bread at the old bakery.
Hjerl Hede is also a place where history can be experienced together with nature. The historic houses and gardens are surrounded by heath, forest and open landscapes, and the museum grounds invite you to explore at your own pace.
Frilandsmuseet Hjerl Hede is a cultural-historical experience for children and adults alike – for families on a day out and for anyone interested in history, building traditions, architecture and Danish life through the ages.
Admission is free for children and young people under 18.
A historic Christmas at Hjerl Hede
Experience the traditions and history of Christmas at Frilandsmuseet Hjerl Hede. On three weekends before Christmas, the historic houses open their doors to a Christmas experience where you can walk from parlour to parlour and see how Christmas was celebrated from the 1600s to the 1930s.
The farms are busy with Christmas preparations. There is baking, needlework, wood chopping and the Christmas slaughter. The Christmas trees are decorated, the tables are laid, and people in period costume offer an insight into the work, traditions and community of Christmas.
During your visit you can also take a ride in the horse-drawn carriage, travel on the old steam train out to Lake Flyndersø and visit the Christmas market in the visitor centre, where you will find arts and crafts, Christmas decorations and homemade products.
You can also buy Christmas baking at the old bakery, visit the dairy and enjoy food and drink on the grounds.
Christmas at Hjerl Hede 2026: 28–29 November, 5–6 December and 12–13 December. Open 10:00–17:00. Living history 10:00–16:30.
Admission is free for children and young people under 18.
Hjerl Hede map
In collaboration with Hjerl Hede, we have created an interactive map of the grounds, allowing you to dive into the experience from home or follow a self-guided tour while you are here.
Click the image to open the map and start exploring
Restaurant Skyttegården
When visiting Frilandsmuseet Hjerl Hede, Restaurant Skyttegaarden is the ideal spot to enjoy a tasty lunch, cake of the day, or a traditional ice cream cone in cosy surroundings. Both hot and cold dishes are served here, and we cater to everything from casual coffees to parties, special events, and guided package tours with catering included.
📅 Open on museum opening days (hours may vary)
The Harpøth family looks forward to welcoming you!
Frequently asked questions
Here we have gathered answers to some of the most common questions
When is Hjerl Hede open?
Hjerl Hede's opening hours vary throughout the year.
During parts of the year, the museum is fully open with access to all historic buildings, while in the winter months, the outdoor grounds are open for scenic walks during daylight hours while the houses remain closed.
There are also special living history periods during the summer and at Christmas.
See opening hours here
How much does admission to Hjerl Hede cost?
Admission prices vary depending on the season and special events.
Standard day tickets start from DKK 110 online for adults, while children and youths under 18 enter for free when accompanied by an adult.
Admission is higher during living history events in the summer and at Christmas.
See prices here
Where do I find Hjerl Hede?
Frilandsmuseet Hjerl Hede is located at Hjerlhedevej 14, 7830 Vinderup
Is there free parking at Hjerl Hede?
Yes, parking is always free at Hjerl Hede
Is Hjerl Hede wheelchair accessible?
Hjerl Hede features many firm gravel paths suitable for almost all wheelchairs and prams. Companions with a valid companion card enter for free, and wheelchairs or rollators can be borrowed at the entrance, subject to availability.
What facilities are available on site?
There are toilets in the visitor centre and by Restaurant Skyttegården. All toilet areas include at least one accessible toilet and baby changing facilities.
Are dogs allowed at Hjerl Hede?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Hjerl Hede as long as they are kept on a lead. Dogs enter for free, and water bowls are available across the museum grounds.
