Hestebrønden: Roskilde’s Iconic Horse Fountain on the Historic Square
The Horse Fountain at Hestetorvet is Roskilde's beloved monument, celebrating local heritage, community, and city life at the vibrant heart of town.
Hestebrønden, or the Horse Fountain, stands proudly at Roskilde's central Hestetorvet square. Created in 1927, this charming bronze fountain depicts two lively horses, a nostalgic tribute to the historic horse market that once filled this space. It blends art, local heritage, and daily city life, offering both a picturesque meeting point and a window into Roskilde’s past.
A brief summary to Domkirkemuseet
- Domkirkepladsen 3, Roskilde, 4000, DK
- +4546316500
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- For the best photo, visit early morning when fewer people are around and the square is bathed in soft light.
- During city festivals, Hestebrønden becomes a lively focal point surrounded by local stalls and performances.
- Combine your visit with a coffee from one of the cafés around the square to soak in the local atmosphere.
- The fountain is next to Roskilde Station, making it a perfect spot for meeting up before exploring the city.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Roskilde’s city center, Hestebrønden can be reached easily with a gentle 5-minute stroll. Begin at the iconic Roskilde Station—stepping out onto Hestetorvet, the central square, you’ll spot the fountain within moments, surrounded by cafés and the lively pulse of the city.
-
Public Transport
Arriving by train or bus, disembark at Roskilde Station—Hestebrønden sits directly on Hestetorvet, just outside the main entrance. Public transport tickets within the city zone cost typically DKK 24 for a single adult fare.
-
Taxi
A taxi from anywhere in Roskilde will bring you to Hestetorvet, which hosts Hestebrønden. The ride from most central hotels takes ~5 minutes, typically costing DKK 60–100 depending on traffic.
-
Driving
Parking is available at garages and public lots adjacent to Hestetorvet. Standard municipal parking rates are DKK 12–20 per hour. Being a central hub, parking can be limited during events and busy hours.
Discover more about Domkirkemuseet
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roskilde Cathedral
0.0 km
Aarhus’ breezy city beach, Marselisborg Strand, invites all with its sandy shoreline, shallow bay waters, forest-edge trails, and vibrant local atmosphere.
Byens Hus
0.1 km
Aarhus Waterfront: A vibrant promenade of modern architecture, maritime history, open-air art, and coastal atmosphere at the heart of Denmark’s second city.
Det Kongelige Palæ i Roskilde
0.1 km
Discover Aarhus’ dynamic waterfront, where innovative architecture, vibrant public spaces, and maritime tradition meet the scenic expanse of Aarhus Bay.
Skänk Beer & Wine bar
0.6 km
Experience Aarhus’ celestial heritage at the Ole Rømer Observatory, where history, culture, and astronomy converge for hands-on stargazing and exploration.
Roskilde Jars
0.6 km
Marselisborg Strand is Aarhus’ favorite city beach, offering sandy shores, family-friendly swimming, scenic promenades, and easy access to the sea, nature, and cultural landmarks.
Roskildekrukkerne
0.6 km
Aarhus’ lively waterfront is a stunning mix of modern urban design and maritime heritage, offering panoramic views, vibrant events, and a glimpse into the city’s innovative soul.
Roskilde Harbour
1.0 km
Aarhus waterfront blends modern design, maritime history, and vibrant city life along Denmark’s lively Kattegat shoreline—an essential urban seafront experience.
Sct Hans Have
1.8 km
Explore Aarhus’ signature waterfront, where innovative architecture, lively promenades, and maritime history create Denmark’s most vibrant urban shoreline.
Tysmosen Naturist Camping FKK
14.8 km
Discover Tysmosen Naturist Camping FKK in Smørum, Denmark: A serene, clothing-optional retreat offering freedom, nature, and community in a tranquil and liberating environment near Copenhagen.
Køge Nord
16.9 km
Iconic 19th-century lighthouse near the tip of Denmark, famed for sweeping sea views, dramatic bird migrations, interactive exhibitions, and family-friendly café.
Ølstykke bypark - Bebyggelsen Søhøj Park ligger nord for byparken, fjern ALT med Søhøj også naturlegeplasen
17.1 km
Discover Ølstykke Bypark, a green haven offering tranquility and recreation in the heart of Ølstykke, perfect for families, nature lovers, and community events.
Roskilde Fjord
18.7 km
Discover Roskilde Fjord: A blend of Viking history, serene landscapes, and outdoor adventures awaits in this captivating Danish destination, easily accessible from Copenhagen.
Køge Å
18.9 km
Explore Skagen’s maritime history with hands-on exhibits and live marine engines at Maskinrummet, an atmospheric museum in the heart of the harbour.
Gerlevparkens Venner
19.8 km
Discover Denmark's horticultural heritage at Gerlevparken near Jægerspris: explore unique rose collections, a diverse tree collection, and tranquil gardens maintained by dedicated volunteers.
Køge Ås
20.0 km
Striking lighthouse at Denmark’s northern edge, offering panoramic views, interactive birdwatching, café, exhibitions, and a window into Skagen’s wild coastal nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stændertorvet
0.1 km
Explore Denmark's seafaring heritage at the M/S Maritime Museum, a cutting-edge architectural marvel set beside Kronborg Castle in Helsingør.
Skt. Laurentius
0.2 km
Ledreborg Park in Lejre: Discover manicured Baroque gardens, forested walks, and a historic Danish palace just outside Roskilde in a setting rich with heritage and beauty.
Sct Hans Kilde
0.2 km
Discover avant-garde creativity at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Roskilde—Denmark’s premier platform for experimental exhibitions, performance, and sound art.
Rektorkilden
0.2 km
Explore experimentation and innovation at Roskilde’s Museum of Contemporary Art, where cutting-edge exhibitions and performances illuminate the evolving world of modern art.
Maglekilde
0.2 km
Discover Maglekilde, Roskilde's historic spring that fueled centuries of industry and architecture.
Roskilde Museum
0.3 km
Explore original Viking ships and immerse yourself in Denmark's maritime history at Roskilde's Viking Ship Museum.
Klosterkilden
0.4 km
Explore the captivating Baroque landscapes, woodland walks, and grandeur of Ledreborg Park, a serene 18th-century estate just outside Roskilde in Lejre.
Byparkens Legeplads
0.5 km
Denmark's premier art museum, SMK showcases centuries of masterpieces in historic galleries and modern halls at the heart of Copenhagen’s vibrant cultural scene.
Hestebrønden
0.6 km
Contemporary public fountain and local landmark on Hestetorvet Square, celebrating Roskilde’s historic role as a trading and gathering point.
RoS Gallery
0.7 km
Explore Denmark’s national gallery in central Copenhagen, where world-class Danish and European art meets vibrant contemporary exhibitions and lush parklands.
Puppe
0.7 km
Discover Hestebrønden, the horse-topped fountain that anchors Roskilde’s bustling Hestetorvet square, blending history, public art, and vibrant local atmosphere.
Frøspringvandet
0.7 km
Discover Brillesøerne: Esbjerg's tranquil 'Spectacle Lakes' offering scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and serene picnic spots.
Viking Ship Museum
0.9 km
Ornate 19th-century fountain and local meeting spot at the heart of Copenhagen’s pedestrian zone, surrounded by centuries-old city life and vibrant urban energy.
Koncertkapellet
0.9 km
Discover Roskilde’s gateway to boundary-pushing creativity, featuring dynamic exhibitions in visual, sound, and performance art within a sleek modernist space.
RAGNAROCK- Museet for pop, rock og ungdomskultur
1.6 km
Denmark’s grand baroque gardens offering breathtaking vistas, formal parterres, and serene lakeside walks in the shadow of majestic Frederiksborg Castle.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Raadhuskælderen
0.1 km
Dine in an atmospheric cellar beneath Roskilde’s old town hall, savoring traditional Danish cuisine beside storied arches and centuries of local history.
Restaurant Upstairs
0.2 km
A favorite among locals and visitors, Restaurant Upstairs serves modern Danish classics with scenic views above central Roskilde’s historic shopping street.
Namaste - Restaurant Roskilde
0.2 km
Experience the essence of India at Namaste Restaurant in Roskilde - where authentic flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Restaurant Mumm I/S
0.2 km
A standout in Roskilde’s historic district, Restaurant Mumm offers inventive Nordic cuisine in a cosy, candlelit setting perfect for local flavour and memorable evenings.
Lenes Streetfood
0.2 km
Discover authentic Danish street food at Lenes Streetfood in Roskilde – a flavorful experience waiting for every traveler.
Rib House
0.2 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Rib House in Roskilde, where mouthwatering ribs meet welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable meals.
Bryggergården
0.3 km
Historic Danish restaurant in central Roskilde, serving classic smørrebrød and local specialties in a timber-framed setting near major attractions.
Restaurant That's Amore
0.4 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Restaurant That's Amore in Roskilde - where every meal feels like a family gathering.
Piazza Navona II
0.4 km
Experience the best of Danish cuisine at Piazza Navona II in Roskilde – where culinary excellence meets inviting ambiance.
Nua Mama's Secret
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Nua Mama's Secret in Roskilde - a culinary journey filled with vibrant flavors and warm hospitality.
Viking Pizza Roskilde
0.5 km
Discover Viking Pizza in Roskilde - where delicious flavors meet quick service in a cozy setting perfect for travelers.
An No
0.6 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at An No in Roskilde - where local flavors meet contemporary dining.
Røde Port Bistro
0.6 km
Experience the best of Danish cuisine at Røde Port Bistro in Roskilde, featuring local ingredients, craft beers, and vibrant live music.
Royal Indian - Roskilde
0.7 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Royal Indian - Roskilde with diverse vegetarian options and a warm inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant Store Børs
0.8 km
Experience the fusion of Danish and Italian flavors at Roskilde's harborfront gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NORII Roskilde
0.2 km
Discover curated women's fashion and unique home décor at NORII Roskilde, a boutique blending contemporary trends with timeless elegance in the heart of Roskilde.
Vinylfreak
0.4 km
Vinylfreak is Roskilde’s must-visit record store, a vintage retreat for music lovers, collectors, and festival fans seeking rare finds and Danish music gems.
KLUD
21.5 km
Discover KLUD: Køge's premier women's fashion boutique offering curated Danish brands and personalized styling services.
Outlet Køge
21.6 km
Discover unbeatable deals on fashion and lifestyle brands at Outlet Køge, nestled in the charming town of Køge, Denmark.
Tendens Køge
21.6 km
Discover premium men's fashion at Tendens Køge, featuring top brands and personalized service in the heart of Køge's historic district.
Miss O
21.8 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at Miss O, a boutique gem in Køge's historic center.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
28.0 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.
BOSS Outlet
28.1 km
Discover discounted HUGO BOSS fashion at BOSS Outlet Ringsted, located in the Premier Outlets Center.
Ringsted Outlet
28.1 km
Ringsted Outlet offers designer and lifestyle brands at year-round discounts in an open-air, family-friendly setting with free parking and Scandinavian charm.
Frederiksberg Centret
28.7 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.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
29.6 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.
Jægersborggade
29.7 km
Discover Copenhagen’s Jægersborggade: a vibrant, creative street in Nørrebro packed with innovative eateries, hip boutiques, and local character.
Værnedamsvej
29.7 km
Copenhagen’s beloved Parisian-style street, brimming with independent shops, cafés, wine bars, and Scandinavian charm between vibrant Vesterbro and Frederiksberg.
Funky Junky
29.9 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
Nørrebrogade
30.0 km
Nørrebrogade in Nørrebro embodies multicultural Copenhagen—a bustling boulevard of global eats, indie shops, street art, and local vibrance at the city’s creative edge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
PROP Vin og Tapasbar
0.2 km
Central Roskilde’s contemporary wine and tapas bar, offering curated wines, Mediterranean-inspired plates, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere close to local attractions.
Ruder Konge Bodega
0.3 km
Step inside Ruder Konge Bodega in Roskilde for a true taste of Danish pub culture, featuring cozy interiors, local character, and an authentic community spirit.
Gustav Wieds - Byens Ølbar
0.5 km
Atmospheric Roskilde pub honoring Gustav Wied, offering a rotating beer selection, cozy interiors, live events, and a true sense of local Danish hospitality.
Copé Lounge
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drinks at Copé Lounge, Roskilde's premier social hub.
Vinbaren Muicon
1.6 km
Experience Roskilde's wine culture at Vinbaren Muicon, a cozy bar in the Musicon district offering a curated selection of local and international wines.
Musicon Mikrobryggeri
1.6 km
Creative craft beer and community spirit in Roskilde’s Musicon district—Musicon Mikrobryggeri fuses inventive brews, local culture, and lively urban atmosphere.
Cafe O'Flanagans
21.5 km
Experience the fusion of Danish coziness and Irish charm at Cafe O'Flanagans in Køge's vibrant center.
RICHTERs Ølstue
21.5 km
Experience old-town Danish pub culture, local beers, and friendly Køge tradition at RICHTERs Ølstue – historic bar, heart of town, warm ambiance.
Den høje stue
21.6 km
Explore Den Høje Stue, a 1527 half-timbered house in Køge, showcasing Denmark's rich architectural history.
Vinbaren Køge
21.8 km
Experience Køge's best wine bar, where Danish hygge meets world-class wines in a cozy, historic setting perfect for both locals and travelers.
Ibsens Pub & Vinbar
21.9 km
A cozy, harborfront pub and wine bar that captures the spirit of Køge with great drinks, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Grillen
22.3 km
Experience the cozy charm of Grillen, an inviting bar in Køge, perfect for enjoying local drinks and unwinding after a day of exploration.
Cafe Intime
28.6 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
28.8 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
29.0 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
