Bjerkedalen park

Bjerkedalen park is a district park in Oslo's Bjerke borough, in the north-east of the Norwegian capital. It is built around water: the reopened Hovin brook runs through the middle of it, and the paths, lawns and play areas all follow its course.

What makes Bjerkedalen park special?

For roughly fifty years the Hovin brook was buried in an underground culvert. When the park was created, it was brought back to the surface and guided from north to south across the recreation area. Today it is the star of the landscape: promenades run along its banks, and at one point the water widens into a small swimming pond with a sandy beach. In a densely built part of the city, that mix of greenery, water and gathering space is rare.

The park was designed by the studio Dronninga landskap, with input from local residents during planning. It officially opened on 11 October 2013. A pavilion with a cafe and public toilets followed in spring 2014.

What can you do here?

• stroll the promenades beside the brook and relax on its banks,
• swim or wade in the pond and lie on the little beach,
• play beach volleyball or use the ball court,
• barbecue at the designated grill spot,
• stop for a coffee at the pavilion cafe,
• use the public toilets.

There is also a naturist area, open in the colder part of the year when the weather allows. Worth knowing if you plan a visit outside summer.

Awards and significance

The park quickly earned recognition. It received Oslo's architecture prize in 2015, was named Norway's best urban space in 2016, and took the title of Green Park of the Year in 2019. The awards mostly reflect how uncovering the brook turned a once unremarkable area into a place residents genuinely enjoy.

Where does the brook run?

The Hovin brook begins in the Marka forests near Grefsen and Årvoll, then crosses the city to reach the Oslofjord, passing the Klosterenga area on the way. Bjerkedalen park is one of the most visible stretches of that route, where the water is once again part of everyday neighbourhood life.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bjerkedalen park? In the Bjerke borough of Oslo, in the north-east of the city. Coordinates: about 59.938 N, 10.822 E.

Can you swim in the park? Yes, there is a swimming pond with a small sandy beach. It is best enjoyed in summer.

Is there a cafe and a toilet? Yes, both are in the park pavilion.

Is entry free? Yes, it is a public city park managed by the municipality of Oslo.

Is it a good place for families? Yes. Water, a beach, ball courts and barbecue spots make it suitable for a family picnic or a longer walk. Children like the pond and the brook, while adults can relax at the cafe or on the grass.