Borglum Abbey

Borglum stands on a ridge above the Vendsyssel plain with a long view to the sea, and it was one of the most powerful places in medieval north Jutland: a royal manor that became a bishop's seat in the eleventh century and then a Premonstratensian abbey, with the bishops of Borglum running the northernmost diocese in Denmark. After the Reformation it passed into private hands and was rebuilt as a manor around the medieval church, so the abbey church, the monastic wings and a baroque house are all one complex. Exhibitions cover the medieval abbey, the Reformation and rural life, with a print workshop and changing art shows. The hilltop position and the view are a large part of the appeal.

What you actually see

• The abbey church - the medieval core with later fittings.
• Monastic wings and manor - three periods in one linked complex.
• The ridge-top view - the Vendsyssel plain out to the North Sea.
• Exhibitions and print workshop - the site's current use.

When to go

April to October; winter opening is limited to events. Two to three hours. Summer brings concerts and markets in the grounds. The view is best on clear days.

Honest expectations

Opening is seasonal and event-driven, so check what is on. Parts of the complex are private. The exhibitions vary in quality and are largely in Danish. There is little public transport.

Nearby

Lokken and the coast are west; Rubjerg Knude lighthouse lies north-west.