Museum Silkeborg - A Journey Through Time

Museum Silkeborg – A Journey Through Time is housed in Hovedgården, Silkeborg’s oldest building, dating from 1767. Inside, the museum presents its most famous finds, the Tollund Man and the Elling Woman, alongside other archaeological and cultural history displays. Temporary exhibitions run through the year, so there is usually something new to see. The focus is on clear storytelling and objects that appeal to both adults and children, making it a useful stop if you want to understand the area’s past as more than just a quick look at the bog bodies.

Come for a close encounter with the Tollund Man and the Elling Woman in the historic Hovedgården building, and stay for varied exhibitions that put them in context. The mix of permanent displays and changing shows makes Museum Silkeborg a good choice if you want a more in-depth, indoor stop along the route in Silkeborg’s centre.

One of Denmark’s key prehistory collections, anchored by the Tollund Man and Elling Woman, in Silkeborg’s oldest building.

Planning your visit

How long to stay

1.5–3 hours

Best time to visit

Weekdays outside peak holiday periods are likely to be quieter, giving you more time with the Tollund Man, the Elling Woman and the exhibitions. On wet or cold days, the museum works well as an indoor stop in Silkeborg’s centre. In busier summer months, allow extra time for queues at ticketing and the main bog body displays.

Around here

Nearby on the Margueritruten

• The Tollund Man - a more than 2,200-year-old well-preserved bog body

  Attraction · 52 m

• 

  Silkeborg Church

  Church · 184 m

• The paddle steamer Hjejlen

  Museum · 226 m

• 

  Silkeborg Harbour

  Attraction · 228 m

• Faunapassagen

  Attraction · 236 m

• Silkeborg - Denmark’s Outdoor Capital

  Attraction · 270 m

Frequently asked

What can I see at Museum Silkeborg – A Journey Through Time?

The main highlights at Museum Silkeborg – A Journey Through Time are the Tollund Man and the Elling Woman, two exceptionally well-preserved bog bodies. They are displayed with information about who they were and how they were found. Around them, you will find other archaeological and cultural history exhibitions in Hovedgården, Silkeborg’s oldest building, with both permanent and changing displays.

How long should I plan to spend at Museum Silkeborg?

Most visitors should allow between one and a half and three hours at Museum Silkeborg. That gives time to see the Tollund Man and the Elling Woman properly, read the main exhibition texts, and look through at least some of the other displays. If you like to read everything in detail, or if there is a temporary exhibition that interests you, plan for the upper end of that range.

Is Museum Silkeborg suitable for children?

Museum Silkeborg is generally suitable for families, with exhibitions designed to be both educational and enjoyable. The Tollund Man and the Elling Woman can be intense for very young or sensitive children, but older children and teenagers often find them fascinating. The combination of clear explanations and varied objects usually keeps younger visitors engaged for at least an hour or two.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for Museum Silkeborg?

Booking practices can change, so it is best to check Museum Silkeborg’s own visitor information before you go. In quieter periods, many visitors simply turn up and buy tickets on arrival. During school holidays or busy summer weeks, advance booking may help you avoid queues, especially if you are visiting with a larger group or at peak times in the middle of the day.

Is Museum Silkeborg easy to combine with other sights in Silkeborg?

Yes, Museum Silkeborg sits in Silkeborg’s central area and pairs well with nearby sights. You can combine your visit with a look at Silkeborg Church, a walk to Silkeborg Harbour, or time by the water where the paddle steamer Hjejlen operates. This makes it straightforward to spend half a day mixing indoor museum time with short walks and views of the town and lakes.

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