Enköping: Gardens, History and Trails

Åpromenaden follows a route of about two kilometres, passing public artworks. Allow around 50 to 60 minutes for a leisurely art walk with short stops at the works; the route starts and ends in Drömparken. It can be visited year-round, around the clock and in any weather. You can also see a Volvo PV on Åpromenaden.

Gardens, Water and Nature

Trädgårdsdagen brings garden-themed activities to the parks and centre of Enköping. It takes place on the first Saturday of September every year and is free of charge. This recurring event combines activities for all ages with gardens, health, food and crafts. It includes markets, talks, exhibitors and workshops; the specific programme may vary.

Vattenparken near Korsängen is both a natural area and a place to relax. It provides a habitat for birds and treats much of Enköping’s stormwater. If you would like to plan visits to other natural areas, nearby Haga ekbackar offers lake views, oak groves and hazel trees; it is accessible by bicycle. At Gröngarnåsen, near the centre, there is an approximately three-kilometre circular trail and a birdwatching tower. Himlabacken offers views over Dyarna.

The surrounding area also offers a range of birdwatching spots: around 265 different bird species have been observed at Hjälstaviken. There is a birdwatching tower in Hårby and a hide among the reeds at the foot of Kvarnberget. The number of species may change as further observations are made. In northern Dyarna, a 1.7-kilometre, wheelchair-accessible circular trail runs from the car park on Nyängsvägen to a viewpoint by the river and pasture and back.

Cycling, swimming and getting out on the water

There are different cycling routes to explore: Cykelleden Uppland is 80 kilometres long and runs through the Mälaren landscape between Enköping and Bålsta via Örsundsbro. The Mountainbikeleden in Gånsta is marked blue, is four kilometres long and starts at the obstacle course in Gånsta. These details describe two different rides, each with its own length and route type.

Pepparrotsbadet has a lagoon, water currents, an infinity pool and a diving tower. There is also a waterslide over 100 metres long, a climbing wall and a children’s area with a Viking ship, rune stone and treasure hunt. Operating arrangements and individual facilities may change; check the latest information before your visit. Nearby, five kilometres south of the centre, Bredsandsbadet has a long sandy beach, a diving tower, jetties, a beach volleyball court and a kiosk. Seasonal facilities and bathing conditions may vary.

Enköping can be reached by boat via Lake Mälaren, and several harbours have guest berths. At Enköping harbour, alongside the red-painted grain warehouses dating from the late 18th century, there is a guest harbour with ten berths and pitches for motorhomes. Kayaks can be rented at Bredsand or at the harbour; stand-up paddleboards are also available for rent at the harbour. From Bredsand, kayak or canoe launch points provide access to Lake Mälaren and the islands of Skarpan and Gröneborg. Consider water conditions, the season and rental availability when planning your visit.

City history and museums

A self-guided historical walk lets you explore selected historic sites in Enköping. An archaeological excavation uncovered a paved road dating back to the beginning of the 11th century. Construction of Vårfrukyrkan on Kyrkåsen began in the 12th century; at the time, it served as a church for a larger area. The ruins of St Ilians kyrka, built in the late 13th century, are located below Kyrkåsen.

Enköpings museum is housed in the former town hall, built in 1783. It presents the municipality’s cultural history from the Stone Age to almost the present day, with permanent exhibitions as well as changing exhibitions on a range of subjects. Since exhibition topics change, it is advisable to check the current programme before your visit. Westerlundska gården is a museum in the former home and practice of Doctor Westerlund.

Those interested in technology and industrial history can follow the story at the Bahco Museum, from J.P. Johansson’s adjustable wrench to its global success. Exhibits and topics include machinery, films, a spring hammer, turning and special-purpose machines, and objects from the industrial works fire brigade. The grain warehouses at the harbour offer another aspect of the city’s history: their red colour and construction in the late 18th century make them a different historic stop from the churches and museums.

Getting here and planning your trip

Enköping railway station is at Enköpings resecentrum. From there, buses run to Västerås on route 874 and to Uppsala on routes 774 and 804. The train journey from Stockholm Central Station to Enköping takes about 40 minutes. Journey times are approximate; check the current timetable and services before travelling. If you are looking for a hotel in Enköping, you can plan your stay around what matters most to you: a city walk and museums, cycling routes, nature watching or activities on the water.

Discover more destinations: Lillkyrka, Ekolsund, Örsundsbro, Enköping, Edsta, Fjärdhundra, Grillby and Tierp.

Back to the main travel overview: Uppsala.