Slottsskogen

Slottsskogen was laid out from 1875, after the city council approved it in 1874, on ground that had been the castle's forest, and it covers about a hundred and thirty-seven hectares of oak wood, rock outcrops, meadow and ponds in the middle of the city. The animal enclosures are free to visit and hold Nordic species - elk, deer, seals, Gotland ponies, sheep - along with a penguin pool that is the exception to the rule. There is a bird pond, a children's zoo, an observatory and long stretches of wood where the city is out of sight. Way Out West festival is held here in August. The botanical garden is across the road to the south.

What you'll find

• Free Nordic animal enclosures - elk, deer, seals, ponies.
• Oak wood and rock outcrops - across 137 hectares.
• A bird pond and children's zoo - the family side.
• A festival site in August - Way Out West.

When to go

April to September; the animals are out year round. Half a day.

Practical notes

Animals are in enclosures and often out of view. The festival closes large sections in August. Winter leaves the park bare. It is large - walking between the parts takes time.

Nearby

The botanical garden is south; Linne and Haga are east.

Key facts