Lystlunden Park

Lystlunden Park is located in central Horten and is the municipality's largest park and sports complex. Here you can walk among old oak trees, relax beside the duck pond, visit the playground with the children or enjoy a picnic on the grass. The park also has a historic music pavilion, sculptures and several sports facilities. It is a pleasant place to take a break from the town centre, whether you want to be active or simply enjoy the green surroundings.

Discover the old oak trees
One of Lystlunden's most distinctive features is its collection of old oak trees. Several are hollow and provide valuable habitats for wildlife. The mature trees create a varied park landscape with shady areas, open lawns and walking paths beneath their branches. Take a leisurely walk through the park and look closely at the impressive old trunks. Hollow oak trees can provide important habitats for insects and other species, so visitors should avoid disturbing the trees and their cavities.

Playground and activities for children
The playground is located among the old oak trees and is a popular spot for families. Visit Vestfold's original description presents the area as a little fairy-tale world, where elves might be hiding among the trees.
Children can play and explore while adults relax on nearby benches or grassy areas. With both a playground and open lawns, Lystlunden is a convenient place for a family break during a walk through Horten.

Duck pond, music pavilion and sculptures
There are several things to discover as you explore Lystlunden. At the duck pond, you can watch the birdlife, while benches throughout the grounds provide places to sit and relax. The old music pavilion adds a historic touch to the park. You can also find sculptures by Norwegian artists Arne Durban and Ørnulf Bast. Bring something to eat and enjoy a picnic on the grass or beside one of the park's benches. Public barbecue facilities have previously been available, but their current status and any restrictions should be checked before planning to cook outdoors.

Sports and outdoor activities
Lystlunden is also an important sports area in Horten. Its facilities include a football stadium, artificial-turf pitches and other areas for training and recreation. The sports facilities are used for organised activities and matches. Access to individual pitches and sporting events may be subject to separate rules and should not be confused with free access to the public park.

A gift from the Navy to the people of Horten
Lystlunden was given to the people of Horten by the Norwegian Navy in 1852 as a place for recreation and leisure. At the time, naval activities played a major role in the development of the town, and many residents worked at the naval dockyard. This history connects the park with Karljohansvern, the former main base of the Royal Norwegian Navy. Today, Karljohansvern is a heritage area with museums, historic military buildings and coastal walking routes. To combine a visit to Lystlunden with more maritime history and nature, explore the Karljohansvern circular walk, which leads through the former naval grounds and Hortenskogen forest.

Plan your visit
Lystlunden Park is located near Lystlundveien in Horten, close to the town centre and local sports facilities. The park is a public green space that can be visited throughout the year, free of charge. No admission ticket or advance booking is required. There are walking paths throughout the park, although surface conditions, gradients and accessibility across the entire area have not been fully verified.

Check local parking arrangements, toilet facilities and any seasonal restrictions before visiting. Visit Horten Municipality's information about parks and outdoor recreation for current information about public green spaces in Horten.