Just outside the town of Kungsbacka, around 40 kilometres south of Gothenburg, stands the grand yet charming Tjolöholm Castle. Built between 1898 and 1904, it is a unique blend of 16th-century English architecture, Tudor style and the Arts and Crafts movement, combined with the most modern innovations of its time.
The estate includes not only the castle itself but also a well-preserved worker’s village, a chapel, a carriage museum, several gardens and extensive natural areas with walking trails.
Tjolöholm Castle is open year round. Guided tours are available, but you are equally welcome to explore the castle at your own pace.
The gardens and surrounding nature
Some of Sweden’s most distinctly British gardens can be found at Tjolöholm, clearly influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement. During the summer, guided garden tours are led by the castle’s head gardener.
Below the castle lies the kitchen garden, which is gradually being restored with crops and fruit trees. In the worker’s village you will find Hemtrefnaden’s kitchen garden and the Rose Garden, filled with colourful blooms.
Did you know that the travel magazine Vagabond named Tjolöholm one of Europe’s eight most beautiful gardens, alongside, among others, Monet’s garden in France?
Around the estate stretch seven kilometres of stone-paved paths and more than one hundred stairways. The trails wind through deciduous woodland, coastal meadows and several viewpoints.
Manegen Garden Café
If you are feeling hungry, the Manegen Garden Café serves dishes and treats made with local produce. The building was once used as a riding arena.
For larger groups, celebrations and weddings, Restaurant Storstugan is also available to book.
Events all year round
Tjolöholm hosts events, exhibitions and concerts throughout the year, including the traditional Christmas market and school holiday activities for children.
One of the most popular recurring events is Afternoon Tea, served on selected weekends. Enjoy soup, British finger sandwiches and scones, followed by sweet pastries and tea in the castle’s richly decorated interiors.
A day for the whole family
If you are visiting with children, there are generous areas around the castle for play and adventure. Below the castle you will also find a child-friendly beach and winding nature trails.
At the shoreline stands the play ship Montrose, perfect for curious young explorers. The ship is said to originate from the town of Montrose in Scotland, where it also received its name.
You can also set off on a QR code treasure hunt that takes you on an exciting journey in search of the lost Tjolöholm, collecting letters to solve a riddle. Maps are available in a box outside the castle shop.
Stay overnight in the worker’s village
On the estate beside the castle lies a well-preserved worker’s village with former workers’ cottages. Today, they have been converted into a cottage hotel and museum, giving you the opportunity to stay overnight and experience life at Tjolöholm in the early 20th century. Read more about accommodation here.
