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Holmegaard Værk: Denmark’s Living Glass Legacy

Experience Denmark’s iconic glassmaking heritage and innovative design at Holmegaard Værk, where historic craftsmanship meets contemporary creativity in a unique museum setting.

4.5

Holmegaard Værk, situated in Holmegaard, is Denmark’s premier glass museum where contemporary design meets the tradition of 19th-century glassmaking. Visitors experience vibrant exhibitions of historic and modern glass art, observe artisans at work, and immerse themselves in the creative energy of this unique industrial heritage site. The museum also features ceramics and hands-on activities, offering a fascinating journey into Danish craftsmanship in a setting that blends vintage factory halls, sleek galleries, and atmospheric workshops.

A brief summary to Ribe Kunstmuseum

  • Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-4 pm
  • Friday 11 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Plan for at least two hours to explore both the galleries and live glassblowing sessions—the creative process is a highlight.
  • The shop offers unique hand-blown glass and ceramics; museum visitors sometimes receive exclusive discounts.
  • Family visitors will appreciate the child-friendly activities and interactive exhibits—inquire about hands-on workshops.
  • Check for special exhibitions or events during your visit; seasonal installations and artist talks are frequent.
  • Ample parking is available but arriving by public transport offers a scenic approach through Zealand’s countryside.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Slagelse, board a regional train heading east toward Næstved; the ride takes around 25–35 minutes. Disembark at Næstved Station and continue with a local bus to the Holmegaard area—buses depart regularly, and the final ride lasts 15–20 minutes. A combined ticket for train and bus typically costs 80–110 DKK one way. The museum is set near a small lake, its red brick buildings easily spotted as you approach the area’s main crossroads.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Slagelse city center to Holmegaard Værk offers a scenic rural drive through Zealand and reaches the museum complex in 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect rates in the range of 450–650 DKK each way. Look for the striking brick chimney and contemporary glass signage marking the museum entrance within the old factory grounds.

  • Driving

    Travelers arriving by car from Slagelse will find well-marked motorway routes leading broadly east across the countryside. Parking is ample and free directly beside the museum entrance, within sight of the industrial-era water tower—a recognizable local landmark.

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Discover more about Ribe Kunstmuseum

Holmegaard Værk stands as a dazzling testament to Danish glass craftsmanship, drawing visitors into the storied world of Holmegaard Glasværk—the nation’s most revered name in glassmaking since 1825. Set amid lush Zealand countryside, the former factory complex has been revived as a modern design museum and living workshop, where the echo of molten glass and the memory of thousands of workers linger within historic brick halls. Here, you not only explore an impressive collection spanning centuries of Danish glass and ceramics, but also feel the raw creative process firsthand. Walking through the expansive galleries, you discover the evolution of Holmegaard’s iconic designs—from delicate Art Nouveau goblets to bold, minimal Scandinavian silhouettes loved the world over. Interactive displays and imaginative exhibitions connect the past to the present: you might find yourself tracing the curve of a classic vase, or marveling at cutting-edge glass sculptures gleaming under dramatic lighting. The atmosphere is vibrant and immersive, especially in the glassblowing studio, where visitors can watch master glassmakers shape glowing glass or even try their hand at simple techniques during special sessions. The museum’s architecture enhances the experience, with light filtering through tall windows, industrial details, and open workshops that celebrate both gritty heritage and contemporary innovation. Holmegaard Værk also houses a ceramics collection, playful installations for kids, and a stylish café set within the original factory, providing a full-day’s journey for design lovers of any age. Temporary exhibitions often spotlight Danish design icons or showcase international glass art, ensuring there’s always something unexpected to discover. Practical amenities are thoughtfully integrated, including a well-stocked designer shop, cloakroom, and accessible facilities. Whether you are a design aficionado, family traveler, or simply curious about Denmark’s creative spirit, Holmegaard Værk offers an engaging, dynamic, and beautifully authentic visit.

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