Through various exhibitions, you can learn more about life along the coast, the development of the town and the traditions that have characterised the Haugesund region for generations. The museum tells the story of how the sea, herring and shipping have been crucial to the development of Haugesund. At the same time, you will also gain an insight into everyday life on land – from agriculture and crafts to traditions and cultural heritage.
What can I see and experience at Karmsund Folkemuseum?
At Karmsund Folk Museum, visitors can learn, explore and perhaps even reminisce. The museum has two permanent exhibitions: ‘From Farm to Table’, about agriculture in the Haugesund region from 1650 to 1900, and ‘The Town that Went Ashore’. This exhibition is a journey through time, showing the history of Haugesund over 150 years. It includes the office of the Jewish businessman Moritz Rabinowitz.
The sea and herring have been of great importance to the development of Haugesund, which is reflected in the exhibitions. At the same time, you can learn more about what life was like for those who did not work at sea, and the role that agriculture played in the region. The rich folk art, with ceremonial objects such as riding halls and sending baskets, provides an insight into a society with rich traditions of craftsmanship.
How much time do I need at the museum?
You can easily spend several hours exploring the museum, but if you have around 45 minutes to spare, you will still be able to experience large parts of the exhibitions.
Guided tour of Karmsund Folk Museum
Guided tours of the museum can be booked all year round. You can easily do so here.
Are there activities for children at the museum?
Yes. Children can take part in an exciting treasure hunt where they search for objects in the various departments. This makes the museum visit extra engaging for the youngest visitors. In addition, you can join the Children's Museum Relay in the summer, which takes you through the departments of the Haugalandmuseet.
Where can I buy tickets for Karmsund Folk Museum?
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the museum. When you buy a ticket to one of the departments of the Haugalandmuseet, you can visit another museum free of charge within 48 hours.
When is Karmsund Folk Museum open?
The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 12:00 to 15:00 and Saturday to Sunday from 11:00 to 15:00. From mid-July to August, the museum is open every day.
Is the museum open all year round?
Karmsund Folk Museum is open all year round.
Is food and drink available at the museum?
Light refreshments are available in the café area: coffee/tea/soft drinks and cake, chocolate and ice cream. Located in the centre of Haugesund, it is also a short distance to several of the city's cafés and restaurants.
Parking
There is no parking directly adjacent to the museum, but there is plenty of parking nearby. See an overview of parking spaces in Haugesund city centre here.
Universal design
Karmsund Folk Museum is not accessible to wheelchair users as there are steps down to the exhibition.
Events at Karmsund Folk Museum
Throughout the year, various activities and events are organised at the museum, including lectures, knitting cafés and other cultural events. See here for an overview.
Museum shop
In the museum shop, you will find traditional toys, local products and souvenirs. Among other things, Christmas baubles with motifs from Haugesund and herring-themed products are sold here.
KulturPunkt
With the KulturPunkt app and website, you can explore the Haugalandmuseet's collections and local history digitally. Here you will find photographs, art and audio from the region's history. Read more at kulturpunkt.org.
