Henriksholm Historic Area, Vedbæk
A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.
Henriksholm in Vedbæk is a quietly atmospheric corner of North Zealand where layers of Danish history overlap: from Mesolithic hunter-gatherer burials nearby at Henriksholm–Bøgebakken to a later country estate, a 20th‑century military command complex and today’s leafy residential streets. Set between coastal forests and the Øresund shoreline, it offers a mix of historic villas, traces of the former defence headquarters and access to woods, paths and beaches that frame Copenhagen’s northern riviera.
A brief summary to Henriksholm
- Melchiorsvej, Vedbæk, 2950, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Combine Henriksholm with a walk to Vedbæk’s beach and marina to appreciate how the hillside, forest edge and shoreline fit together as one landscape.
- Bring a map or offline app: streets can feel similar, and it is easy to wander in circles among the villas and modern housing clusters.
- If you are interested in prehistory, read about the Henriksholm–Bøgebakken Mesolithic cemetery beforehand so you can imagine where those burials once lay.
- Visit on a clear, mild day to make the most of nearby forest and coastal walks, as there is little shelter if the weather turns wet or windy.
- Be mindful that this is a residential area: keep noise low, respect private property and avoid photographing homes or gardens too directly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Regional train to Vedbæk and walk
From central Copenhagen, take the coastal regional train towards Helsingør and get off at Vedbæk Station; the ride usually takes 25–30 minutes and a standard adult ticket typically costs around 40–60 DKK each way in standard class. From the station, allow 15–20 minutes on foot up through the neighbourhood to reach the Henriksholm area, following gently rising residential streets with pavements suitable for most walkers and pushchairs.
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Bus from North Zealand towns
If you are already in North Zealand, local bus routes connecting coastal towns such as Skodsborg, Rungsted or Hørsholm to Vedbæk provide an easy approach, with typical journey times of 10–25 minutes depending on the start point and a single ticket usually in the 25–40 DKK range. Buses run at moderate frequency during the day; from Vedbæk’s bus stops, expect a 10–20 minute uphill walk on paved, moderately graded streets to reach Henriksholm.
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Car or taxi from Copenhagen
Driving from central Copenhagen to Henriksholm generally takes 25–35 minutes via the coastal route or inland motorway, depending on traffic. Taxis for this distance typically cost in the region of 350–550 DKK one way, varying with time of day and route. Street parking in and around Henriksholm is residential and can be limited at busy times, so avoid blocking driveways and be prepared to park slightly further away and walk 5–10 minutes.
Henriksholm location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Henriksholm
From country estate to coastal neighbourhood
Henriksholm sits on a gentle rise above Vedbæk, part of the green corridor running along the Øresund coast north of Copenhagen. Originally this was country estate land outside the small fishing settlement, later dotted with villas as Copenhagen’s elite sought fresh air and sea views. Walking here today you still notice that semi-rural feel: tree-lined lanes, glimpses of gardens, and the sense of a self-contained enclave on the edge of town. The area now forms a residential quarter rather than a single visitor attraction, but its quiet streets and open edges invite exploration on foot or by bike. It works well as a pause between the nearby beaches and Enrum Forest or as a short detour from the coastal path.Military command and modern transformation
In the 20th century Henriksholm gained new importance when a modern military command facility was constructed here. Built in steel and concrete, the complex symbolised Denmark’s Cold War defence posture, tucked discreetly among trees yet close to Copenhagen and key transport lines. For decades this was a strategic nerve centre rather than a place you might wander through. When the defence command later moved to new facilities in Copenhagen, the Henriksholm site was gradually redeveloped. The masterplan retained parts of the built fabric, threading new housing into the old footprint instead of erasing it entirely. This has left a subtle patchwork: angular modern buildings, preserved structures and older villas coexisting within one compact district.Architecture among trees and sea air
As you move through Henriksholm you encounter varied architecture in a small area. Some streets are framed by early 20th‑century villas with pitched roofs and mature gardens; others present crisp, contemporary townhouses and apartment blocks. Materials shift from brick and plaster to glass, metal and timber, reflecting different eras of Danish design. What unites the ensemble is its green setting. Lawns, shelterbelts and small pockets of woodland soften the lines of buildings, and many views terminate in trees rather than traffic. On clear days you can sense, if not always see, the nearness of the Øresund just downhill at Vedbæk Strand, where sandy beaches and small harbour life shape the coastal atmosphere.Echoes of a much older past
Henriksholm also gives its name to one of Denmark’s most important Mesolithic sites: Henriksholm–Bøgebakken. Here, a cemetery of the Ertebølle culture dating to the 6th millennium BCE revealed remarkably well-preserved burials, including adults and children buried with tools, ornaments and animals. Although the archaeological site itself is not laid out as a public monument, knowing it lies in this landscape adds depth to any visit. The discovery underlines how long humans have been drawn to this stretch of coast, rich in fish, game and sheltered land. When you look across the modern neighbourhood it takes little imagination to picture former shorelines, camps and forest clearings layered beneath today’s houses and gardens.Walking, pausing and connecting the coast
Most visitors experience Henriksholm as part of a wider loop through Vedbæk rather than as a stand-alone destination. It links naturally with strolls to the station, the beach, the marina and Enrum Forest, where longer trails lead under tall beech trees. Paths and quiet roads make it easy to improvise short circuits, with occasional benches or low walls that invite a brief rest. There are no formal exhibits or visitor facilities within Henriksholm itself, so the appeal lies in its atmosphere: suburban calm laced with military history and deep prehistory. It is a place to slow down, notice architectural details, and reflect on how a single hillside can carry stories spanning from Stone Age graves to contemporary Danish everyday life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Henriksholm
0.0 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.
Hørsholm Slotshave
3.9 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Lyngby Storcenter
10.1 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
11.3 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Bagsværd Kirke
12.7 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.
Grundtvig’s Church
15.7 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
15.9 km
Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
Country Market
16.7 km
Experience the charm of Fredensborg at Country Market, a vibrant marketplace offering local delicacies, artisan products, and a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of town.
Hillerød St.
17.2 km
North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.
Fælledparken
17.3 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.
Hillerød Rectory
17.6 km
Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.
The Red Square
17.6 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.
Superkilen Park
17.6 km
A dazzling, multicultural urban park in Nørrebro with global art, playful installations, and a vibrant local scene, celebrating Copenhagen’s diversity and creativity.
Old town hall
17.6 km
A dignified brick landmark on Hillerød’s main square, the Old Town Hall anchors the town’s civic heart between cobbled streets, cafés and castle views.
Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød
17.7 km
Experience Danish craft beers, global wines, and tasty tapas at Skänk in Hillerød, a cozy spot with castle views and a welcoming atmosphere on Torvet square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Karen Blixen Museum Rungstedlund
3.0 km
Intimate author’s home on the Øresund, where Karen Blixen’s preserved rooms, bird sanctuary and woodland grave reveal the world behind Out of Africa.
Rungsted Harbour
3.1 km
Lively Øresund marina where sleek yachts, waterfront cafés, and wide coastal views blend into a relaxed Danish seaside atmosphere all year round.
Bøllemosen
3.5 km
Ancient peat bog and beech forest with boardwalk trails, nature playground, and bonfire facilities near Copenhagen.
Arboretum
3.6 km
A tranquil university-run arboretum in Hørsholm, showcasing 2,000 tree and shrub species in a spacious park of winding paths, ponds and seasonal colour.
Sommer's Automobile Museum
4.6 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.
Elleskovstien
5.8 km
A raised wooden boardwalk leads you into Hørsholm’s own “mini‑mangrove”: a quiet marsh and lakeside wetland where alder forest, reeds and artful details reward unhurried wandering.
Jægersborg Dyrehave
6.2 km
UNESCO-listed royal deer park just north of Copenhagen, where ancient oaks, open meadows and free-roaming herds create a vast, car-free escape from the city.
Usserød Å
6.6 km
A gentle North Zealand stream weaving a green, everyday escape through Kokkedal’s neighbourhoods, perfect for unhurried walks, fresh air and simple nature moments.
The Hermitage Hunting Lodge
7.0 km
Explore Denmark's rich glass and ceramic heritage at Holmegaard Værk, featuring live demonstrations, extensive collections, and interactive workshops.
Geels Skov
7.2 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.
Vaserne
7.7 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.
Open Air Museum
8.0 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.
Nivågård’s Malerisamling
8.2 km
An intimate North Zealand art museum where Renaissance masters, Dutch Baroque painters and Danish Golden Age canvases meet in a romantic garden by the Øresund coast.
Nivå Bugt Strandenge
8.3 km
Low, windswept coastal meadows where Øresund meets the Nivå river, offering tranquil paths, wide skies and remarkably rich birdlife just south of Nivå.
The Open Air Museum
9.0 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.
Essential places to dine
Bistro No. 22
3.1 km
Relaxed harbourfront bistro on Rungsted Havn, serving comforting Nordic brasserie dishes with marina views from light-filled interiors and a lively waterfront terrace.
MASH Rungsted Havn
3.2 km
Harbourfront steakhouse indulgence at Rungsted Havn, where prime cuts, a serious wine list and a broad terrace meet white sails and Øresund views.
Søllerød Kro
6.2 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.
Gl. Humlebæk Kro
12.8 km
Historic Danish kro since 1740, serving traditional smørrebrød and coastal hospitality.
Lakeside Restaurant
13.8 km
Casual dining on the edge of Simons Golf Club, where generous Danish-inspired dishes meet wide green views and a calm North Zealand countryside setting.
Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS
15.2 km
Homely Danish cooking in a farmhouse‑style setting on the edge of Hillerød, ideal for relaxed lunches and family meals after exploring Frederiksborg Castle.
Gro Eatery
16.3 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.
Latini Hjørnet
16.4 km
Casual corner pizzeria and burgerhouse in suburban Hillerød, serving hearty pizzas, pastas and fast‑food favourites for easy eat‑in or takeaway meals.
PAX
16.6 km
Experience innovative Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Østerbro at PAX, where a dynamic menu and cozy ambiance await.
Restaurant Silo
16.8 km
Contemporary Nordic dining and cocktails on the 17th floor of a converted grain silo, with sweeping harbor and city views across Copenhagen’s evolving Nordhavn waterfront.
Hong Kong Bistro & Grill
16.9 km
Unfussy Chinese‑Thai grill and wok spot in Hillerød serving hearty noodles, curries, steaks and spareribs in a simple, relaxed neighborhood setting.
Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang
16.9 km
Contemporary Nordic dining in the heart of Hillerød, open daily for lunch and dinner.
Sushi Anaba
16.9 km
Europe's finest omakase counter, where Nordic seafood meets Tokyo precision in an eight-seat sanctuary of culinary excellence.
Geranium
17.1 km
Geranium offers a world-class New Nordic tasting experience in Copenhagen, uniting innovative Scandinavian cuisine, sustainable luxury, and panoramic city views.
Restaurant Madklubben Østerbro
17.1 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Late Morning Post Photographer
11.5 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Red Cross Op Shop
17.3 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Lumi Op Shop
17.6 km
Cosy Hillerød charity thrift store and café where vintage furniture, second-hand finds and lakeside castle views meet to support meaningful mission projects.
Shoppen
17.7 km
A local tattoo studio woven into Hillerød’s main pedestrian street, where custom ink sessions sit just steps from cafés, shops and everyday Danish life.
Mothers' Aid Op Shop
17.7 km
Bright, family‑focused charity shop on Hillerød’s main square, where gently used children’s clothes and toys support vital work for parents and kids in Denmark.
Rodes
17.7 km
Two floors of toys, gear and airsoft in an 800 m² megastore that turns central Hillerød into a playground for kids, teens and grown‑up hobby enthusiasts.
Vinbutikken
17.7 km
Cosy wine and delicacies shop on historic Slotsgade in Hillerød, pairing castle-side charm with handpicked bottles, gourmet treats and friendly, expert advice.
GEjSER ApS
17.7 km
Expert vape shop on Slotsgade offering quality e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and accessories for all experience levels.
Normal
17.8 km
Bright, budget-friendly high-street shop in the heart of Hillerød, ideal for topping up toiletries, snacks and quirky small finds between castle-town explorations.
NEW YORKER
17.8 km
Contemporary fashion trends and accessible style in Hillerød's shopping heart.
JeansStore
17.8 km
Denmark's premier denim specialist offering authentic Lee and Wrangler collections with expert guidance.
Gine
17.8 km
A compact, Scandinavian-inspired womenswear boutique on historic Slotsgade, perfect for a relaxed browse between castle views, coffee stops and city-center strolls.
Spejder Sport
17.8 km
Denmark's largest outdoor chain where expert staff and quality gear prepare you for every adventure.
Søstrene Grene
17.8 km
Cozy Danish design universe in central Hillerød, filled with affordable Nordic home décor, crafts, toys and stationery in a warm, maze-like interior.
Jan Ehlers
17.9 km
Established family-run jeweler and watch specialist on Hillerød’s Slotsgade, blending modern boutique style with goldsmith craftsmanship and curated Danish design.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oddies Beach Bar
2.9 km
Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
16.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Kompasset Ølbar
16.5 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
16.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tap10
17.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Jernstangen
17.2 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Chevy's
17.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chevy's in Østerbro, Copenhagen—where delicious drinks and good company create unforgettable nights.
Østerbros Perle Pub
17.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
ØB
17.6 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
Crane Brothers
17.6 km
Cosy cocktail bar on Hillerød’s main square, blending inventive drinks, warm design and a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere with access to the adjacent Tahonga Lounge.
Tahonga Lounge
17.6 km
Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.
Trianglen 7
17.7 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
The Old Irish Pub
17.7 km
Lively Irish-style bar and late-night dance venue on Hillerød’s central square, pouring pints, playing hits and catering to a sociable, mature party crowd.
ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik - Østerbro
17.8 km
Explore the finest wines at ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik in Østerbro, Copenhagen – where every sip tells a story.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
17.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
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
- Business Friendly