Sophienholm
Romantic country house turned lakeside art hall, where classical architecture, Golden Age stories and a leafy park by Bagsværd Lake meet just outside Copenhagen.
Sophienholm is an elegant 18th‑century country house turned art hall, set in a romantic landscape park on the shores of Bagsværd Lake in Kongens Lyngby, just north of Copenhagen. Once a celebrated gathering place of the Danish Golden Age, it now hosts changing art exhibitions, a café and outdoor sculptures, blending classical architecture, cultural history and tranquil lakeside scenery in one compact, rewarding stop.
A brief summary to Sophienholm
- st, Nybrovej 401, Lyngby, 2800, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check exhibition dates and opening hours in advance; the park is generally accessible longer hours than the indoor galleries.
- Allow time to explore both the main house and the CoBrA Room in the former stable buildings to appreciate the contrast between classical and modern art.
- Bring comfortable shoes and, if the weather is good, plan a slow loop through the lakeside park to see the outdoor sculptures and viewpoints.
- Combine your visit with a coffee or light meal in the on-site café, which offers relaxing views over the lawns and the lake.
- If you prefer quieter galleries, aim for weekday mornings outside Danish school holidays, when the grounds and exhibition spaces are usually calmer.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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S-Train and bus from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the S-Train line to Lyngby Station, a journey of about 20–25 minutes. From there, local buses toward Nybrovej run regularly and reach the stop closest to Sophienholm in roughly 10–15 minutes, followed by a short, mostly level walk through a residential area and greenery. A standard two-zone ticket within Greater Copenhagen typically costs around 24–30 DKK one way. Buses and trains run frequently during the day, with reduced frequency late evenings and on some holidays.
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Regional bus from northern Copenhagen suburbs
If you are already in the northern suburbs, use regional or local buses that serve the Lyngby–Bagsværd corridor and stop along Nybrovej. Travel times range from 10–30 minutes depending on your starting point and route. Expect to pay around 24–30 DKK for most single journeys within two to three zones. Services are generally reliable, but evening and weekend timetables can be less frequent, so it is worth checking departure times in advance.
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Cycling within Greater Copenhagen
Sophienholm lies within comfortable cycling distance for many visitors staying in Copenhagen or the northern suburbs. A ride from central Copenhagen typically takes 35–50 minutes, following a mix of dedicated bike lanes and quieter roads, with gentle hills as you approach the lake area. City bike rentals and hotel bikes usually cost from about 100–150 DKK per day. Surfaces are mostly paved, but be prepared for occasional gravel paths near the park, and dress for changeable coastal weather.
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Taxi or rideshare from Copenhagen center
Taking a taxi or rideshare from central Copenhagen directly to Sophienholm usually takes 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares typically range from about 250–400 DKK one way for up to four passengers. This option is convenient if you are travelling with luggage or have limited mobility, as you can be dropped off close to the entrance, but costs are significantly higher than public transport and prices may rise at peak times or late at night.
Sophienholm location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Sophienholm
A lakeside country house with a Golden Age soul
Sophienholm is a former country estate perched above the tree-fringed shores of Bagsværd Lake, a short hop from central Copenhagen yet surrounded by greenery and water. Originally built in 1768–69 for Theodor Holmskiold, director of the Danish postal service, the house was named after his wife Sophie and soon became one of the area’s most refined retreats. Later owners expanded and reshaped the property, but its essence as a cultured refuge just outside the capital has remained. From the outside, Sophienholm still reads as a classic landsted – a country house designed as much for leisure and conversation as for everyday living. It feels intimate in scale compared with city palaces, but carefully composed, with balanced wings, tall windows and views that always lead your eyes back to trees, lawns and water.Classical architecture framed by an English romantic park
Around 1800 the wealthy merchant Constantin Brun commissioned French architect Joseph-Jacques Ramée to transform Sophienholm, giving it the strict French classicist look that defines the main building today. Clean lines, clear symmetry and restrained decoration contrast beautifully with the softer, rolling landscape outside. Ramée also redesigned the grounds in the style of an English landscape garden, complete with winding paths, open lawns and orchestrated sightlines towards the lake. The park still carries touches of those romantic ambitions. Historic features such as the porter’s lodge, a former Norwegian house and a Chinese pavilion once added an almost theatrical quality to walks through the estate, and while not all original garden structures survive, the sense of curated nature is unmistakable. Mature trees, long views across the water and scattered sculptures make the grounds as much an open-air gallery as a simple picnic setting.Salons, artists and the spirit of the Danish Golden Age
Sophienholm’s most storied chapter belongs to Constantin Brun’s wife, Friederike Brun, a writer and cosmopolitan salon hostess. In the early 1800s she turned the estate into a lively cultural meeting place, inviting leading figures of the Danish Golden Age – poets, composers and thinkers – to summer stays filled with readings, music and conversation. Names such as Adam Oehlenschläger and other literary contemporaries found inspiration here, and the house and park slipped into poems and songs of the era. This salon culture gave Sophienholm an unusual blend of domestic intimacy and intellectual ambition. It was a private home, yet also a stage for ideas, performances and artistic experimentation. Echoes of that period linger in the way the rooms are used today: not as static historic interiors, but as flexible spaces where art and dialogue continue to unfold.From private estate to public art hall
In the late 19th century the Aller publishing family took over the estate, and in 1963 Sophienholm passed into public ownership under Lyngby-Taarbæk Municipality. After careful restoration, the house reopened as an art venue, and it now functions as a kunsthal – an exhibition hall for changing shows rather than a fixed collection. Exhibitions span Danish contemporary art, historical themes and curated projects that often resonate with the building’s heritage. A highlight is the CoBrA Room in the former stable buildings, where a ceiling connected to the experimental CoBrA art movement links Sophienholm’s Golden Age past with 20th-century avant-garde energy. Outdoor sculptures punctuate the lawns and paths, and temporary installations occasionally spill into the park, making a walk here as visually engaging as a tour through the galleries inside.Visiting today: art, café and slow strolls by the water
Today Sophienholm is equal parts cultural venue and peaceful escape. Inside, light-filled rooms host two to five major exhibitions a year, alongside smaller shows and events such as talks, workshops and concerts. The on-site café makes good use of the lake views, encouraging long pauses between gallery visits. Outside, the park is freely accessible and invites unhurried wandering along the shoreline, with benches, gentle slopes and shaded corners that suit both quiet reflection and relaxed family outings. Whether you come primarily for art, architecture, a lakeside walk or a mixture of all three, Sophienholm offers a compact slice of Danish cultural history wrapped in greenery and water views, easily fitted into a half-day or leisurely afternoon.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bagsværd Kirke
1.7 km
A modest suburban shell concealing Jørn Utzon’s luminous “cloud” church, where Nordic minimalism, sculpted concrete and tranquil courtyards create a serene urban sanctuary.
Lyngby Storcenter
3.0 km
Discover a world of shopping and dining at Lyngby Storcenter, one of Denmark's largest malls, offering a vibrant mix of international brands and local favorites in the heart of Kongens Lyngby.
Furesø
3.4 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Grundtvig’s Church
8.1 km
A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.
Kildevældsparken
9.6 km
Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
The Red Square
10.0 km
A striking, modern city square in Nørrebro, where bold Danish design meets global cultures, street art, and vibrant local life in Copenhagen’s most diverse borough.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
10.4 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
Fælledparken
10.7 km
Copenhagen’s largest and most beloved city park, Fælledparken offers a dynamic blend of green tranquility, local culture, sports, and major city events in Østerbro.
Henriksholm
11.0 km
A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.
The Tower Playground
11.2 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
Folkets Park
11.5 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Hørsholm Slotshave
11.5 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Møstings Hus
11.6 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Frederiksbergmuseerne
11.7 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
11.7 km
Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Bagsværd
0.7 km
Long, tranquil lake on Copenhagen’s northern fringe, where everyday walks, picnics and wildlife share the shoreline with a world-class rowing course.
Klopstocks eg
0.7 km
Discover Store Dyrehave in North Zealand: a historic royal deer forest with unique star-shaped paths, tranquil wildlife, and lush woodlands perfect for outdoor adventures.
Stendysser
2.0 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Lyngby Folkepark
2.1 km
A relaxed patch of green by Lyngby Lake, where everyday walks, dog runs and quiet pauses connect suburban life with the water and woodland north of Copenhagen.
The Open Air Museum
2.3 km
Step into 300 years of rural Danish life among thatched farms, windmills, animals and gardens in one of the world’s largest historic open‑air museums.
Baadfarten Boat Tour
2.4 km
Historic wooden boats, tranquil lakes and forested shores combine on this leisurely North Zealand cruise just outside Copenhagen.
Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg
2.6 km
A modest stone-framed bench in Sorgenfri Slotshave, offering a quiet, poetic pause where Viggo Stuckenberg once found inspiration amid royal parkland.
Templet
2.7 km
Intimate, no‑frills live venue in Kongens Lyngby where loud guitars, close‑up performances and a local crowd turn a modest room into a night of amplified energy.
Open Air Museum
3.1 km
One of the world’s largest open‑air museums, Frilandsmuseet gathers centuries of Danish rural life into a single village of farms, mills, animals and gardens.
Geels Skov
3.8 km
An accessible Copenhagen-edge woodland of beech trees, clear trails and cosy fire pits, Geels Skov is where everyday life slips easily into fresh-air forest time.
Fiskebæk Naturskole
5.3 km
Rustic forest school and shelter camp on the edge of Værløse, where crackling campfires, simple shelters and tall trees turn everyday nature into an easy escape.
Vaserne
5.7 km
Sheltered between Birkerød and Sjælsø, Vaserne is a protected wetland reserve of reeds, swamp forest and bird-filled lakes offering quietly immersive nature on the city’s edge.
Sommer's Automobile Museum
6.6 km
A three-storey Danish car haven where Jaguars, Volvos and rare home-built specials tell a vivid story of 20th‑century motoring and mechanical passion.
Ordrupgaard
6.6 km
A historic country house turned art museum, where French masters, Danish classics, bold contemporary architecture, and a sculpture-filled park meet in leafy Charlottenlund.
Farum Lake
6.7 km
A tranquil woodland lake looped by a 10 km trail, rich in birdlife, legends and gentle outdoor adventures just northwest of Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
Søllerød Kro
4.9 km
Historic thatched Danish inn turned Michelin-starred dining destination, where refined French-inspired cuisine, deep wines and warm village charm meet by a tranquil pond.
Cafe 33
9.3 km
Explore the rich heritage of vodka at Cafe 33's unique Vodka Museum in Vanløse.
Gro Eatery
9.8 km
Experience modern Nordic cuisine in an urban rooftop farm setting at Gro Eatery, where seasonal tasting menus and city views meet Danish sustainability in Østerbro.
PAX
10.4 km
Experience innovative Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Østerbro at PAX, where a dynamic menu and cozy ambiance await.
Geranium
10.7 km
Geranium offers a world-class New Nordic tasting experience in Copenhagen, uniting innovative Scandinavian cuisine, sustainable luxury, and panoramic city views.
Street Food 108
10.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Street Food 108 in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district - a delightful taste adventure awaits!
Restaurant Madklubben Østerbro
10.9 km
Enjoy approachable modern Danish cuisine and vibrant local life in the stylish heart of Østerbro at Restaurant Madklubben, where good food and great company meet.
Gaarden & Gaden
11.0 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Bæst
11.1 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Aroii - Nørrebro
11.2 km
Savor inventive Asian fusion cuisine in lively Nørrebro, where Aroii delivers creative Thai-inspired plates and vibrant ambiance in one of Copenhagen’s buzziest districts.
Kiin Kiin
11.2 km
Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in Copenhagen’s Nørrebro, offering inventive tasting menus and modern fine dining that blend Southeast Asian flavors with Nordic influences.
Café Lindevang
11.2 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Hos Fischer
11.2 km
Experience authentic Italian trattoria dining and neighborhood hospitality at Hos Fischer, a beloved Østerbro culinary gem near the tranquil green heart of Copenhagen.
Hooked Nørrebro
11.3 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Hooked Nørrebro in Copenhagen - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors in a vibrant setting.
JATAK
11.3 km
Intimate Nørrebro dining where New Nordic produce meets the bold, personal Asian flavors of chef Jonathan Tam in a calm, minimalist Michelin-starred setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Late Morning Post Photographer
3.0 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
10.6 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and timeless fashion in the heart of Nørrebro’s creative district at Perfectly Worn Vintage, Copenhagen’s haven for unique style.
Rødovre Centrum
10.7 km
Denmark’s original modern shopping mall, blending big‑name stores, cinema and family‑friendly leisure in a spacious all‑weather hub west of central Copenhagen.
Red Cross Op Shop
11.3 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Frederiksberg Centret
11.4 km
Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.
PRAG Nørrebro
11.5 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
11.5 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.
Butik Bungalow
11.6 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
McKorman
11.7 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
TorvehallerneKBH
12.3 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Exotic Mix
12.4 km
Gourmet nuts, dried fruits and chocolate dragées from around the world, served from a colourful family‑run stall inside Copenhagen’s Torvehallerne market.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
12.5 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Fjällräven
12.7 km
A compact Fjällräven brand shop on historic Kultorvet, pairing Scandinavian outdoor design with expert gear advice in the heart of Copenhagen’s old town.
Værnedamsvej
12.7 km
Copenhagen’s beloved Parisian-style street, brimming with independent shops, cafés, wine bars, and Scandinavian charm between vibrant Vesterbro and Frederiksberg.
Souvenir Gifts shop
12.7 km
Classic Copenhagen souvenirs in a compact, central shop on historic Købmagergade, perfect for last‑minute gifts and easy-to-pack mementos from the Danish capital.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
10.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
10.3 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer, where craft beers and fine whiskies await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kompasset Ølbar
10.5 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
10.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tap10
10.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Skovbar
10.9 km
Punk and queer-friendly bar hosting live music in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro neighborhood.
Paloma Vermuteria
11.0 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
Klovnens Bodega
11.1 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
11.1 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
BRUS
11.1 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
The Mudhoney
11.2 km
Discover The Mudhoney, a stylish cocktail bar in Copenhagen, blending coffee shop charm with expertly crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.
Østerbros Perle Pub
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
Trianglen 7
11.3 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
ØB
11.3 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
PULP bar
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at PULP Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
9.6 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
SIGURD CPH
10.0 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
10.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
RUST Natklub
11.3 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
11.4 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Haven - Events
12.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Moon Club
12.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Mirage
12.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
12.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Culture Box
12.7 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Cosy Bar
12.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
La Terraza
12.9 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Den Anden Side
12.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
12.9 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
The Jane
12.9 km
Mad Men–style cocktail den and basement nightclub hidden beneath a historic Copenhagen square, with secret rooms, strong drinks and a lively late-night dance floor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Romantic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
