Österbybruk: Industrial Heritage and Walking Trails

Industrial Heritage and Blacksmithing History

Österbybruk is Uppland’s largest industrial heritage site. The protected historic site includes 76 buildings, among them a manor house. The Vallon forge is the only surviving example of its kind and remained in operation until 1906. A guided tour of the Vallon forge provides information about blacksmithing techniques and the living conditions of workers and their families at the ironworks.

The workers’ housing is also part of the townscape: it is concentrated along two streets between Herrgårdsdammen and Oppdammen. This brings the ironworks’ living conditions into focus alongside the forge. Those interested in the town’s history can find different perspectives on the industrial site and the lives of its residents.

Manor House, Park, and Collections

A historical audio walk leads through the rooms of the manor house and ends in a historic kitchen dating from the late 18th century. The Triller exhibition in the manor house displays parts of Erich and Ingrid Triller’s workshop, as well as objects and tools from their work. The grounds also include an art gallery and a shop.

The park adds another historical dimension to a visit: it was laid out between 1744 and 1753 to a design by Carl Hårleman; a pond in the park dates from the late 18th century. The Carriage Museum houses carriages for different occasions, from a princess’s carriage to everyday vehicles. Guided tours of the Carriage Museum are available to book year-round. The Agricultural Museum displays a unique collection of tractors, machinery, and farming equipment.

Hiking Between Water, Forest, and Wetlands

Outside the manor house, a marked network of nature trails begins, covering 18 kilometers in total and divided into three loops: Kulturstigen, Karmdammen runt, and Harvikadammen runt. Another option is the 6-kilometer Upplandsleden loop 12:1. It passes through Österbybruk and follows the water and the historic ironworks surroundings on the return route. The trail is considered easy to walk. The Vikingaleden pilgrimage route also passes through Österbybruk.

Stordammen runt is a 14-kilometer circular walk that starts at Simbadet. It follows the dams through forests and extensive wetlands; the trail is generally easy to walk. Several hundred meters of boardwalk help hikers keep their feet dry and protect the wetland from wear. When comparing distances, loop 12:1 is 6 kilometers, while Stordammen runt is 14 kilometers.

The Aspbo nature reserve near Österbybruk offers a different natural setting: the landscape is characterized by deciduous-rich forests, old pastures, and shoreline areas. The eastern bathing area, Aspbo 3, in the surrounding area is wheelchair accessible and has an accessible dry toilet and a picnic table.

Swimming and Seasonal Experiences

Simbadet is just north of Österbybruk, on Lake Stordammen. It offers swimming, beach volleyball, boules, a sauna, bicycle rental, and a café; offerings may vary seasonally. A ride on the historic Linfärjan ferry across Herrgårdsdammen is an experience for adults and children alike. The short Kärleksstigen walk starts or ends there. As the family program is seasonal, check before your trip to see whether the ferry is operating.

The traditional Eldfesten also offers a seasonal attraction: it takes place every year in the second week of August. Check the dates for your chosen year before your trip. The Österbybruk swimming pool has a lift at the entrance, as the pool is located two floors below it. Accessibility features may change; check the current status before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Öregrund, Östhammar, Gimo, Norrskedika, Gräsö, Forsmark, Alunda.

Back to the main travel overview: Östhammar.