20 June , 2025
12.6 C
Stockholm

Långholmens Prison Museum
– A Historic Island Escape in Stockholm

HemMuseums & Attractions in StockholmHistorical MuseumsLångholmen: Stockholm’s Island Escape with a Prison Past
💡 Summary
Escape to Långholmen, a historic Stockholm island transformed from prison to peaceful retreat. Walk lush park paths, explore the prison museum, or stay overnight in a former jail-turned-hotel.

Explore Långholmen: From notorious prison to lush island retreat

Nestled in the heart of Stockholm, Långholmen Island offers a fascinating blend of history and nature. Once home to the infamous Långholmen Prison, the island has transformed from a place of incarceration into a peaceful urban oasis.

Stay at Långholmen Hotel—A night behind bars, reimagined

Experience history like never before at the Långholmen Hotel, a former prison turned boutique accommodation. The original 18th-century cells have been thoughtfully redesigned into stylish, modern rooms. Each stay offers a rare glimpse into Sweden’s penal past, enhanced by the on-site museum and guided tours through original punishment cells and the chilling execution chamber.

🔒 From Barren Rock to Botanical Gem
Remarkably, Långholmen’s lush greenery was cultivated by prisoners in the 1800s. Using dredged mud from surrounding waterways, inmates enriched the soil, inadvertently planting foreign seeds from ships passing through. Today, the island’s exotic flora stands as a living legacy of this transformation.

Uncover the layers of Långholmen Prison’s history

Established in 1724, Långholmen Prison originally operated as a workhouse. Over time, it evolved into a full-fledged penitentiary for both men and women.

Notable for its harsh conditions, the prison later embraced reform, introducing education and vocational programs in the early 20th century. Despite these efforts, overcrowding and unrest persisted, leading to its closure in 1975. This marked the end of an era and the beginning of the island’s rebirth.

Enjoy nature in the heart of Stockholm

Today, Långholmen is a beloved recreational area, offering lush walking trails, scenic waterfront views, and beaches perfect for a summer swim. Locals and tourists alike come to jog, picnic, and explore this green haven just steps away from the bustling city.

Attraction Info

English Långholmens Prison Museum

Swedish Långholmens museum

Address
📍Långholmsmuren 20
🗺️Södermalm, Stockholm
Contact
📞+46 8-720 85 81
✉️museum@langholmen.com
Getting there
🚇Hornstull
🚌4, 40, 54
Other Info
ℹ️Located on the scenic island of Långholmen in central Stockholm, this former prison turned museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s penal history. Visitors can explore old cells, learn about prison life, and discover how the site transformed into a cultural venue and hotel. A unique experience for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Attractions nearby

Places to stay in the area

STF Långholmen Hostel
8.7

STF Långholmen Hostel

⭐ 2.0 | 📈 8.7 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Långholmsmuren 20, Långholmen

STF Langholmen Hostel ensures comfort with free internet and parking. Enjoy express check-in, concierge services, and in-room dining. Start your day with a homemade breakfast and explore the beach, BBQ facilities, and shared kitchen.

Langholmen Hotell
8.6

Langholmen Hotell

⭐ 3.0 | 📈 8.6 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Långholmsmuren, 20, Långholmen

Discover a rare blend of heritage and hospitality at Langholmen Hotell, situated on Stockholm's picturesque Langholmen Island. This former prison offers cozy, well-appointed rooms and a fascinating glimpse into its storied past. Wander through scenic landscapes, relax by the water, and savor delicious local dishes.

Reimersholme Hotel
8.5

Reimersholme Hotel

⭐ 2.0 | 📈 8.5 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Reimersholmsgatan 5, Reimersholme

Reimersholme Hotel provides cozy ambiance with a fireplace and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy breakfast, on-site dining, and evening entertainment at the bar. Laundry service and BBQ facilities add to the convenience.

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen
8.6

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 8.6 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Rålambshovsleden 50, Marieberg

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen ensures a seamless stay with free Wi-Fi, parking, and car hire services. Amenities include a fireplace, convenience store, and smoke-free rooms with air conditioning and balconies. Enjoy a homemade breakfast, on-site bar, steam room, sauna, and fitness center. Culinary enthusiasts can use the shared kitchen for meal prep.

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