Herttoniemen Kartanon Wanha Mylly

Herttoniemen Kartanon Wanha Mylly: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Helsinki Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Herttoniemen Kartano, located in Helsinki’s eastern district, is an exceptional example of Finland’s aristocratic heritage, architectural evolution, and vibrant cultural life. Dating back to the early 18th century, this historic estate offers an immersive journey through the country’s noble traditions via meticulously preserved manor buildings, lush baroque and English-style gardens, and engaging museum exhibits. The estate’s transformation from a simple farmstead to a prominent cultural landmark is closely intertwined with notable figures such as Vice Admiral Carl Olof Cronstedt and the Bergbom family, whose stewardship shaped its legacy. Visitors can explore elegant neoclassical and Gustavian architecture, stroll among formal gardens, and discover the artistic heritage woven into the estate’s landscape (itahelsinki.fi).

Adding to the estate’s allure is Wanha Mylly, a restored 18th-century farm manager’s cottage that now operates as a renowned restaurant. Wanha Mylly combines historic Finnish rural architecture with modern cuisine, offering seasonal menus that spotlight local ingredients—especially fresh fish—served in a setting that brims with history and natural charm (vanhamylly.fi).

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for visitors, including opening hours, ticketing details, accessibility, and tips for enjoying both the museum and the restaurant. It also spotlights special events, guided tours, and the estate’s ongoing role in Helsinki’s cultural scene. Whether you are passionate about history, architecture, or culinary experiences, Herttoniemen Kartano and Wanha Mylly offer a rich and multifaceted visit that embodies the heart of Finnish tradition (hertonasgard.fi; MyHelsinki).

Introduction
Historical Overview
Early Origins and Architectural Development
Notable Owners and Historical Events
The Cronstedt Era
The Bergbom Family and the 20th Century
Manor’s Transformation and Heritage
Gardens, Architecture, and Artistic Significance
Legends and Folklore
Visiting Information
Location and Access
Opening Hours
Tickets and Admission
Accessibility
Tours and Events
Nearby Attractions
Wanha Mylly: History, Dining, and Practical Information
Building Origins and Restoration
Dining Experience
Visitor Information
Tips for a Memorable Visit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Interactive Media
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
Sources and Official Links

Historical Overview

Early Origins and Architectural Development

Established in the early 18th century, Herttoniemen Kartano began as a modest two-story red building near Herttoniemensalmi, originally owned by Petter Wetter and later his son Abraham. In 1752, Augustin Ehrensvärd, a renowned military architect, acquired the property, initiating its transformation into an estate of architectural and cultural significance (itahelsinki.fi).

The current main building, constructed in the early 1800s on the site of a former faience factory, blends neoclassical, empire, and Gustavian styles. Remnants of the old kiln remain in the cellar. The estate’s grounds include a formal baroque garden, an English-style landscape park, and a lakeside area, offering visitors a diverse horticultural experience.

Notable Owners and Historical Events

The Cronstedt Era

Vice Admiral Carl Olof Cronstedt, a pivotal and controversial figure in Finnish history, purchased the estate in 1813. He renovated the manor and converted the faience factory into the main residence, ushering in an era of social prominence and personal tragedy for the family (itahelsinki.fi).

The Bergbom Family and the 20th Century

After Cronstedt, the Bergbom family became stewards of the estate. Carl Gustaf Bergbom’s sons, Karl and Johan, advanced the estate’s agricultural productivity, making Herttoniemi a bustling community of about 200 residents by the late 1800s. The Finnish Civil War brought tragedy when Johan Bergbom was killed in 1917; his widow, Helene Gripenberg, later donated the estate to the Svenska Odlingens Vänner i Helsinge association to ensure its preservation (itahelsinki.fi).

Manor’s Transformation and Heritage

Since the 1970s, Herttoniemen Kartano has operated as a museum, illustrating the aristocratic lifestyle of different periods. The upper floor features the Cronstedt era, while the lower floor highlights the Bergbom family period. Outbuildings include the 18th-century pehtoorin tupa, now the Wanha Mylly restaurant, celebrated for its historic ambiance and locally sourced cuisine (tiskivuorenemanta.fi).

Gardens, Architecture, and Artistic Significance

The estate’s gardens encompass a formal baroque area, an English-style park, and a lakeside garden. Carl Ludvig Engel, a leading architect of the 19th century, designed several pavilions, enhancing the manor’s architectural value. The estate has also served as a filming location for Finnish classics like “Katariina ja Munkkiniemen kreivi” and “Rosvo-Roope” (itahelsinki.fi).

Legends and Folklore

Herttoniemen Kartano is said to be haunted by two ghosts—a male figure, possibly Cronstedt, and a mysterious woman. In the 20th century, clairvoyant Aino Kassinen performed a ritual to restore harmony to the manor (itahelsinki.fi).

Visiting Information

Location and Access

Address: Linnanrakentajantie 12, 00810 Helsinki, Finland
Public Transport: Herttoniemi metro station is a 15–20 minute walk away.
Parking: Limited on-site and street parking available.
Directions: Use public transport during special events to avoid parking difficulties (hertonasgard.fi).

Opening Hours

Manor Museum: Open Sundays, May–September, 12:00–14:00 (guided tour at 14:00).
Group Visits: Available year-round by appointment.
Wanha Mylly Restaurant: Open daily (hours vary, see below).

Tickets and Admission

Museum: Free entry during public opening hours; ticketed only for special events.
Guided Tours: Bookable for groups; fees may apply.
Restaurant: No entry ticket required; reservations are highly recommended.

Accessibility

The manor and gardens are partially accessible; contact in advance for mobility accommodations.
Wanha Mylly has improved accessibility but, due to the historic structure, some limitations remain.

Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Available in Finnish, Swedish, and English upon request.
Special Events: Annual Helsinki Day, exhibitions, and cultural programming. Events may require pre-booked tickets (allevents.in).

Nearby Attractions

Gardens: Year-round access to baroque gardens and parkland.
Knusbackan talo: 18th-century farmhouse with ethnographic collections.
Other Helsinki Sites: Suomenlinna fortress, National Museum of Finland, Helsinki Cathedral.

Wanha Mylly: History, Dining, and Practical Information

Building Origins and Restoration

Wanha Mylly resides in the former pehtoorin tupa, dating from the 18th century, and exemplifies rare rural log architecture within metropolitan Helsinki. The structure has been carefully restored to preserve original materials and features, such as hand-hewn beams and traditional fireplaces (vanhamylly.fi).

Dining Experience

The restaurant offers classic European and Finnish cuisine, featuring seasonal and local ingredients, including vegan and vegetarian options. During summer, guests enjoy dining on the lilac-shaded terrace; in winter, the cozy chambers provide warmth and historic ambiance. Wanha Mylly also hosts private events, such as weddings and corporate gatherings, and offers custom menus (MyHelsinki).

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Creative plant-based dishes are available, including a dedicated three-course vegan menu. Advance requests are encouraged for customized dietary needs (HappyCow).

Practical Visitor Information

Opening Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 11:00–22:00 (kitchen until 21:00)
- Fri: 11:00–23:00 (kitchen until 21:00)
- Sat: 12:00–23:00 (kitchen until 21:00)
- Sun: 12:00–21:00 (kitchen until 20:00)
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for weekends and special events.
Pricing: Main courses €20–€35; group menus available (Sluurpy).
Accessibility: On ground floor; contact for specific needs.
Contact: +358 9 75 97 520 | vanhamylly(at)vanhamylly.fi (Wanha Mylly Official)
Website: www.vanhamylly.fi

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Combine a museum tour with lunch or dinner at Wanha Mylly.
Explore the gardens and Engel-designed pavilions for photography.
Check for seasonal events or themed dinners.
Arrive by public transport for convenience during busy periods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Herttoniemen Kartano and Wanha Mylly?
A: The manor museum is open Sundays, May–September, 12:00–14:00; Wanha Mylly is open daily, hours vary (Wanha Mylly Official).

Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets for regular museum or restaurant visits; events may require tickets.

Q: Is the estate wheelchair accessible?
A: The site is partially accessible; contact in advance for specific needs.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, by request when booking.

Q: Can I make dining reservations?
A: Yes, reservations are strongly recommended.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are welcome in the outdoor areas if leashed; not permitted indoors.

Visuals and Interactive Media

Preview the manor’s architecture, gardens, and interiors through images and virtual tours on the official Herttoniemen Kartano website and the Wanha Mylly site. Interactive maps and virtual resources are available to enhance your planning.

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

Herttoniemen Kartano and Wanha Mylly together represent one of Helsinki’s most valuable historical and cultural destinations. From the manor’s aristocratic origins and preserved gardens to the charming Wanha Mylly restaurant, the estate offers an authentic window into Finnish heritage. Visitors enjoy free museum admission during opening hours, can participate in guided tours, and experience locally sourced Finnish cuisine in a unique historical setting.

For the best experience:

Check current opening hours and event schedules.
Make reservations for dining at Wanha Mylly.
Utilize digital resources like virtual tours and the Audiala app for enriched visits.
Explore the estate’s gardens and nearby Helsinki attractions.

By visiting Herttoniemen Kartano and Wanha Mylly, you engage with a living heritage that continues to celebrate Helsinki’s past and present in meaningful, memorable ways (itahelsinki.fi; vanhamylly.fi; hertonasgard.fi).