Karljohansvern is located just outside the centre of Horten and was once the main base of the Royal Norwegian Navy. Today, you can explore the historic naval grounds on foot, visit museums, walk beside the Horten Canal and enjoy the natural surroundings of Hortenskogen forest. Historic military buildings, maritime heritage and coastal scenery make this an ideal place for a relaxing walk or a day of exploring.
Discover the history of Norway's naval base
Karljohansvern's history as a naval base began in 1818, when the Norwegian Navy established its main station in Horten. Over the following decades, the area developed into an extensive military complex with dockyard buildings, warehouses, workshops and other facilities connected to naval operations. The architecture reflects this development. Buildings from different periods stand alongside one another, revealing how the naval base expanded and adapted to changing technology. Much of Karljohansvern was once closed to the public. Today, you can walk among the historic buildings and discover how the former naval base has become an active cultural and heritage area.
Explore the Naval Museum and historic warships
At the Royal Norwegian Navy Museum, you can discover the history of Norway's naval forces in times of war and peace. Its collections include maritime objects, ships, models and equipment that reveal life at sea and the development of the Royal Norwegian Navy. Visitors can also explore historic naval vessels, including the KNM Utstein submarine and the KNM Blink gunboat, when these are open to the public. Nearby, KNM Narvik, a preserved Norwegian warship from the Cold War, offers the opportunity to explore life aboard a naval vessel and discover its military history.
Discover photography and the Oslofjord
Inside one of the historic naval warehouse buildings, you will find Preus Museum, Norway's national museum of photography. Its exhibitions explore the history of photography and photography as an artistic medium. Karljohansvern is also home to the Oslofjord Visitor Centre. Particularly suitable for families, the centre offers interactive activities that introduce visitors to marine life and the environmental challenges facing the Oslofjord. Each museum has its own opening hours, so check current visitor information before planning your day.
Walk along the Horten Canal and through Hortenskogen
Karljohansvern is surrounded by green spaces, old trees and coastal scenery. The Horten Canal separates the historic naval grounds from the rest of the town, with paths offering views of small boats, historic buildings and the waterfront. Continue into Hortenskogen forest to discover woodland paths, mature oak trees and a varied natural environment. Parts of the area are protected for their plant and birdlife, so visitors should respect the natural surroundings. For a longer walk, follow the Karljohansvern circular trail, which leads through the historic naval grounds, beside the canal and through Hortenskogen towards the coast and Møringa.
Historic buildings and cultural experiences
Karljohansvern has developed into a place for art, culture and activities in historic surroundings. Former military buildings now serve various cultural purposes, and the area hosts concerts, exhibitions, markets and other events throughout the year. A visit can therefore include more than museums and history. You might discover a cultural event, explore the architecture or simply enjoy walking between the historic buildings. Events and activities vary throughout the year, so check current programmes before visiting.
Plan your visit
Karljohansvern is located in Horten, with the general address Karljohansvern, 3183 Horten, Norway. The museum area is approximately a 20-minute walk from central Horten and the harbour. The outdoor grounds are open to the public 24 hours a day, throughout the year. Exploring the grounds is free, while museums and selected events operate with their own opening hours and possible admission charges. Parking is available in designated areas, including near Kulturverftet on Kommandørkaptein Klincks vei. The area inside the historic walls at
Kulturverftet is car-free, with ordinary vehicle access and parking prohibited. The grounds include paved paths, woodland trails and historic outdoor areas with varying surfaces. Visitors with specific accessibility requirements should contact individual museums or venues for information about their facilities. Visit the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency website for further information about Karljohansvern and visiting the historic grounds.
