Frederiksberg Gardens
Copenhagen’s grand royal park of lakes, lawns and palace views, where canals, pavilions and everyday city life meet in one elegant green escape.
Frederiksberg Gardens is Copenhagen’s grand English-style park, wrapped around the ochre Frederiksberg Palace in the independent municipality of Frederiksberg. Sweeping lawns, canals and lakes, wooded corners and graceful bridges create a romantic landscape that feels far removed from the city. Boat tours glide beneath willow trees, the Chinese Pavilion recalls royal tea ceremonies, and on the edges you can even glimpse elephants in the neighbouring zoo. It is a classic spot for picnics, slow walks and everyday Copenhagen life year-round.
A brief summary to Frederiksberg Gardens
- Frederiksberg, 2000, DK
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 6 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
- Thursday 6 am-5 pm
- Friday 6 am-5 pm
- Saturday 6 am-5 pm
- Sunday 6 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan at least a couple of hours so you can walk a full loop around the lake, explore side paths and still have time to sit for a picnic or coffee break.
- Boat rentals and canal tours typically run in the warmer months; bring a light jacket, as it can feel cooler on the water even on sunny days.
- For elephant views without entering the zoo, look along the northern edge paths where the zoo enclosure backs directly onto the gardens.
- Early mornings and late evenings offer the quietest atmosphere and the most photogenic light on the palace façade and lakes.
- Lawns can stay damp after rain; waterproof shoes or a picnic blanket with a groundsheet make lounging much more comfortable.
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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Metro from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the M1 or M2 metro to Nørreport and change to line M3 or M4 towards Frederiksberg; the ride is around 15–20 minutes in total, with trains typically every few minutes. A standard adult single zone ticket within the city usually costs about 20–30 DKK, and stations and trains are step-free, making this the most straightforward option in most weather.
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Metro direct to Frederiksberg
If you are already on the M1 or M2 corridor, ride to Frederiksberg Station, which lies a short, level walk from the gardens and takes roughly 10–15 minutes from Nørreport. Expect the same city ticket price of around 20–30 DKK. Trains run frequently from early morning until late evening, but be aware that peak hours can be crowded.
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City bus from Vesterbro area
Several city bus routes link the Vesterbro and inner-city districts with Frederiksberg, generally taking 10–25 minutes depending on traffic. Use a standard city ticket or travel card, with fares in the 20–30 DKK range. Buses can be busy at rush hour, and while low-floor vehicles make boarding easier, they may be less comfortable with large luggage or prams.
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Cycle from the historic centre
Cycling from Copenhagen’s historic centre to Frederiksberg Gardens typically takes 15–25 minutes along dedicated bike lanes almost the entire way. There is no direct cost beyond bike rental, which commonly runs from about 100–150 DKK per day. The route is flat but can feel exposed in wet or windy weather, and you should be confident riding in busy urban traffic at local cycling speeds.
Frederiksberg Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Hot Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Frederiksberg Gardens
A royal escape woven into the city
Frederiksberg Gardens began as the private baroque grounds of Frederiksberg Palace, laid out in the early 18th century when King Frederik IV chose this gentle hillside for his summer residence. Over time the formal geometry softened into an English-style landscape garden, with winding paths, carefully framed vistas and lakes shaped to look entirely natural. Yet the royal presence is still clear: at the main entrance, the bronze figure of Frederik VI greets you, a reminder that this was once very much a king’s back garden. From the lawns, the ochre palace rises on its hill, giving the whole park a stately backdrop. Today the building houses the Royal Danish Military Academy, but the relationship between palace and park remains theatrical. Long views run from the water up to the façade, especially atmospheric in early morning mist or low evening light.Waterways, bridges and quiet corners
Canals and a broad lake thread through the gardens, turning the landscape into a series of small islands and peninsulas. Curving bridges arch over the water, some simple and rustic, others with classical balustrades. Herons, swans and ducks patrol the shorelines, so even a short stroll tends to become a slow, contemplative loop around the lake. Rowboats and small tour boats operate in the warmer months, following the same routes once used for royal outings. From the water, the park feels larger and wilder, with overhanging branches, glimpses of palace and pavilions, and the soft echo of oars under low bridges. Away from the main paths, narrow trails lead into small groves and secluded benches where the city sounds fade to a murmur.The Chinese Pavilion and other curiosities
One of the most distinctive structures in the gardens is the Chinese Pavilion, set on a tiny island and linked by a bridge. Built in 1799 as a royal teahouse, it reflects the 18th‑century fascination with Asia, with playful ornament and delicate colours that contrast with the solid baroque of the palace above. It is especially striking when seen from a boat, framed by trees and reflected in the water. Scattered through the park are other historical details: small waterfalls in rockwork, ornamental grotto-style features, and sightlines that suddenly reveal the palace or distant church spires. Near one of the paths you may notice the famous pacifier tree, its branches hung with colourful ribbons and baby pacifiers left here as a rite of passage in Danish childhood.Everyday life on the lawns
Despite its royal origins, Frederiksberg Gardens today functions as a shared living room for the city. Locals spread blankets on the lawns, children race to the playgrounds, and runners circle the lakes at all times of day. In good weather, almost every patch of grass seems claimed by picnics, book readers or quiet conversations. Simple kiosks and nearby cafés keep visitors supplied with ice creams, coffee and light snacks, while many people prefer to bring their own picnics. In spring, carpets of bulbs near the main entrance announce the new season; in autumn, the mature trees turn the paths into corridors of gold and copper.Edges that blur into zoo and city
At the northern edge, the gardens share a boundary with Copenhagen Zoo, and from certain viewpoints you can look across the moat and watch elephants wandering their outdoor enclosure. It is an unusual juxtaposition: manicured lawns in the foreground, exotic animals just beyond. On the opposite sides, the park blends into grand avenues and other green spaces such as Søndermarken, forming a long belt of trees and grass. The result is a place where layered history, gentle design and everyday use coexist. Whether you come for a slow lap around the lake, a boat ride under low stone bridges, or simply to sit on a bench and watch palace, water and sky shift with the light, Frederiksberg Gardens offers one of Copenhagen’s most graceful escapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Frederiksbergmuseerne
0.4 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Storm P. Museum
0.4 km
Delve into the world of Danish humor and satirical art at the Storm P. Museum, where whimsical cartoons, eccentric inventions, and cultural history come alive in Frederiksberg.
Møstings Hus
0.4 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
0.5 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.
Elefantporten
0.9 km
Four monumental granite elephants carry a historic brewery tower on their backs, blending whimsy, symbolism and industrial heritage in the heart of Carlsberg Byen.
Enghaveparken
1.4 km
Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
CWGC Krigsgrave, CWGC Graves
1.4 km
Scandinavia's largest cemetery: a 54-hectare landscape of history, architecture, and remembrance in Copenhagen.
Folkets Park
2.3 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Frihedsstøtten
2.4 km
Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Nørrebroparken - Playground
2.4 km
Vivid and multicultural, Nørrebroparken Playground is Nørrebro’s lively green heart—offering creative play, open lawns, and vibrant local community energy year-round.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
2.4 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Copenhagen Central Station
2.5 km
Historic brick-and-timber rail hub at the heart of Copenhagen, combining grand architecture, everyday convenience and instant access to the city’s main sights.
The Tube
2.5 km
Experience 17 immersive rooms of sensory adventure at The Tube in Copenhagen Central Station.
Rutschebanen
2.6 km
Iconic 1914 wooden roller coaster in Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, offering nostalgic thrills and hands-on history amid the city’s legendary amusement park.
Nørrebrogade
2.6 km
Copenhagen's creative heartbeat: independent design, multicultural energy, and authentic Nordic cool.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frederiksberg Palace
0.3 km
Renaissance splendor, regal treasures, and royal intrigue await within Rosenborg Castle, set amid the enchanting King’s Garden in central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Zoo
0.4 km
Historic canal in Indre By weaving past royal palaces, stately bridges, and cultural icons—offering tranquil walks and quintessential Copenhagen views.
Søndermarken
0.5 km
Former royal hunting grounds turned semi-wild city park, Søndermarken blends forested paths, meadows and an underground art world beneath Frederiksberg’s leafy streets.
Cisterns in Søndermarken
0.6 km
Discover Danish celebrity history and culture under the trees of Frederiksberg Allé, where handprints and names honor the stars of Denmark’s stage and screen.
The Hill House Museum
0.8 km
Step into a preserved Danish Golden Age home where intimate rooms, a romantic garden and literary memories of Hans Christian Andersen bring 19th‑century Frederiksberg to life.
Frederiksberg Walk of Fame
0.9 km
Explore the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame, where Denmark's cultural legends are celebrated along a historic, tree-lined avenue.
Frederiksberg Allé
1.0 km
Copenhagen’s historic royal boulevard, where linden trees, theatres and elegant facades lead from city bustle to the green calm of Frederiksberg Gardens.
Carlsberg Brewery Tours
1.2 km
Step into the original 1847 Carlsberg brewery for immersive beer history, interactive exhibits, courtyard drinks and encounters with the brewery’s iconic draught horses.
Landbohøjskolens Have
1.2 km
A 19th‑century university horticultural garden in Frederiksberg, where scientific plant collections and everyday park life blend into a calm green refuge.
Falkonerbrønden
1.3 km
A star-studded stroll in Copenhagen: the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame celebrates Danish legends along one of the city’s most iconic boulevards.
Værnedamsvej
1.5 km
Copenhagen’s “Little Paris”: a short, atmospheric street where historic food shops, French-inflected cafés and design boutiques create an intimate, everyday city buzz.
Legepladsen i Skydebanehaven
1.8 km
A colourful staffed playground tucked inside a historic walled park in Vesterbro, where giant parrots, paddling pools and lawns turn old shooting grounds into family fun.
Folkehuset Absalon
1.9 km
Copenhagen's beloved community gathering space where strangers share meals, create art, and build genuine connections.
Det Ny Teater
1.9 km
Historic Belle Époque playhouse turned musical powerhouse, Det Ny Teater blends gilded grandeur, modern stagecraft and big‑scale productions in the heart of Copenhagen.
Istedgade
2.0 km
Gritty, creative and endlessly watchable, Istedgade is Vesterbro’s main strip and Copenhagen’s classic showcase of everyday city life with an edge.
Essential places to dine
Hansens Gamle Familiehave
0.5 km
Hansens Gamle Familiehave—a historic Frederiksberg garden restaurant famed for classic Danish cuisine, family-friendly charm, and over 170 years of tradition in scenic surroundings.
Restaurant Frederiks Have
0.5 km
Frederiksberg’s cherished fine dining hub, blending Nordic tradition with modern cuisine in a welcoming, neighborhood setting—perfect for an authentic Danish gastronomic experience.
Ewalds Brasserie
0.6 km
Classic Danish-French brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, offering seasonal menus, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning garden views for an authentic local dining experience.
Enomania
0.6 km
Intimate Italian restaurant in Frederiksberg celebrated for expertly paired wine menus, exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, and an atmospheric, welcoming dining experience.
Café Lindevang
0.9 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Frederik the VI
1.2 km
Discover culinary delights at Frederik the VI - a vibrant restaurant and pub serving authentic Danish cuisine in Frederiksberg C.
Restaurant Polly København
1.3 km
A modern Nordic brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, blending Danish produce, creative cuisine, and relaxed elegance for a memorable city dining experience.
Restaurant Spuntino
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Spuntino in Copenhagen - where flavors meet ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bevi Bevi
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Bevi Bevi, a charming restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen.
Madklubben Vesterbro
1.7 km
A buzzing, design-forward restaurant in the heart of Vesterbro, known for great value fixed-price menus and a welcoming slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Delphine
1.9 km
Stylish Mediterranean small plates in a visually stunning Vesterbro setting.
JATAK
2.0 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.
Restaurant Radio
2.0 km
Seasonal Nordic fine dining with Michelin recognition, where great taste and genuine hospitality meet accessible excellence.
Maple Casual Dining
2.1 km
Intimate Copenhagen dinner spot on Vesterbrogade, serving polished home-style dishes, generous desserts and warm service in a cozy, modern neighborhood setting.
Cofoco
2.1 km
Cofoco in Vesterbro delights with accessible, innovative Danish and European tasting menus amid warm Scandinavian aesthetics and a true neighborhood spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
0.5 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.
Frederiksberg Centret
0.9 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.
Artikel København
1.7 km
Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.7 km
Compact, colorful and full of playful Danish design, this Vesterbrogade shop turns everyday essentials, gifts and games into a fun, low-cost treasure hunt.
Funky Junky
1.9 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
2.3 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.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
2.4 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Souvenir Gift Shop
2.5 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
PRAG Nørrebro
2.6 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
McKorman
2.6 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Tivoli Gift Shop
2.7 km
A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
2.7 km
Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.
København K
2.7 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Wonderful Souvenirs
2.8 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Carmen Copenhagen
2.8 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Intime
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
0.8 km
Experience the craft of brewing at Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar, Frederiksberg's premier destination for beer lovers with an extensive selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Berlin Bar
0.8 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
bird
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Bird, where unique cocktails and a laid-back ambiance await you.
JOJO
1.2 km
Colourful neighbourhood cocktail bar in Vesterbro, serving freshly crafted drinks on tap in a relaxed, sociable setting that suits pre-drinks, dates and casual nights.
La Fée Verte
1.3 km
Discover La Fée Verte, a charming bar in Frederiksberg, offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Märkbar
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Märkbar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets an eclectic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
The House of Machines Copenhagen
1.4 km
Award-winning cocktail bar with industrial soul and live music in Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Tap 21 Craft Beer
1.4 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Tap 21, a cozy Frederiksberg bar offering a wide selection of local and international brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
Gensyn Bar
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg C at Gensyn Bar, known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Amigo Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Amigo Bar, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.
Riesen Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
Lidkoeb
1.7 km
Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
1.7 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar
1.7 km
Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Haven - Events
0.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
1.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
2.0 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
The Union
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union, Copenhagen's premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable experience.
Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub, where adult entertainment meets unforgettable performances.
CristalClubCopenhagen
2.2 km
Dive into Copenhagen's nightlife at Cristal Club, where upscale ambiance meets electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
KB3
2.2 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at KB3, a lively night club in Vesterbro offering unforgettable music and vibrant experiences.
Baggen
2.2 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Baggen, where Copenhagen's nightlife comes alive with vibrant music and unforgettable experiences.
Moon Club
2.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Den Anden Side
2.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
Never Mind
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Temple Bar
2.5 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Module
2.6 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
2.6 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Cosy Bar
2.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
