The University Park with an island residence

An inviting place for recreation that is also a centre for education and research. There’s room for everything and everyone here!

Walking trail
Driving directions

OPENING TIMES AT The University Park with an island residence Mariestad

Week
Year
25 Mar Mon26 Mar Tue27 Mar Wed28 Mar Thu29 Mar Fri30 Mar Sat31 Mar Sun
OPEN ALL DAY
OPEN ALL DAY
OPEN ALL DAY
OPEN ALL DAY
OPEN ALL DAY
OPEN ALL DAY
OPEN ALL DAY

Lovely park rooms, a school of gardening and the river Tidan running past

As the name implies, the area is split into two parts: the University Park and the island residence of Marieholm. They are situated next to each other, on either side of the river Tidan, in the centre of Mariestad. The magnificent island residence was where the county governor used to live, but now houses Vadsbo Museum in the two wings. The plot in front of the main building is inspired by late 19th century flower gardens. The university park is used by walkers, pre-school children, tourists, garden enthusiasts, students and researchers. Courses in traditional building, gardening crafts, and landscape architecture are run in the park. The site is the result of a collaboration between Mariestad County Council and the University of Gothenburg. Beds around the School of Gardening are fenced but everyone is welcome to go in, they are just to keep hares and other animals out. Finnish red birch is prevalent in the north end of the park. In spring the tree’s red tinged leaves harmonise with different varieties of round headed garlic in the beds, and the pink flowering ornamental cherry. Summer perennials have gentler tones, and the kalimeris flowers in late summer. There’s a large selection of perennials, which aids biodiversity.

Dogs on leads are welcome and there are public toilets in Vadsbo Museum. There is parking close to hand and plenty of spots to sit and eat your own picnic. Restaurants and accommodation nearby.