Södermalm's industries - a historic walk

🏭 Discover Södermalm's hidden industrial history

Follow the neighborhoods where stove bread factories, textile factories and other industries once characterized life on Östra Södermalm.

📸 See historical photos from past

During the walk, older photographs are displayed that help participants imagine what factories, ports and workers' quarters looked like when the industry flourished.

⚓ Get to know Hammarby sea history

Discover how Hammarby lake and the harbour area changed when Hammarbyleden opened and how shipping influenced Södermalm's development.

🧭 Guided by an expert on Stockholm's history

The walk is led by an authorized guide who brings to life the stories of the people, businesses and innovations that have shaped the neighborhood.

🚶 See Södermalm with new eyes

A perfect experience for both Stockholmers and visitors who want to discover a lesser known side of Södermalm beyond the well-known cafes and viewpoints.

What do you get to experience during the hike?

The walk starts at the Axel Landquist park and takes the participants through Östra Södermalm where industry for several centuries left its mark on the district. Here were factories that produced everything from textiles and foodstuffs to candles and other industrial goods. Many of the buildings are still there and tell of a time when Södermalm was one of Stockholm's most important production areas.

Along the way, participants will hear about the people who worked here, about the importance of factories in the development of the city, and about how the areas changed as the industrial era came to an end. The walk also passes the Hammarby Lake, where the stories of port operations, shipping and the major changes after the opening of Hammarbyleden provide further perspectives on Stockholm's development. Historical images help bring the environments to life and make it easier to compare today's Södermalm with what it once was.

About the Guide

Stanley Rutgersson is a certified Stockholm guide in Swedish and English and a member of FSAG. With a keen interest in Stockholm's history and special knowledge of the city's industrial development from the mid-17th century to the mid-20th century, he offers guided tours with both depth, clarity and commitment.

His work has been recognized for several years in a row through the awards City Tour Guide of the Year 2023, Walking Tour Operator of the Year 2024 and Best Stockholm Tourist Guide 2025.

Alongside his work as a guide, Stanley holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and is active at telecommunications company Ericsson. The combination of historical knowledge, pedagogical experience and a structured approach makes his hikes a safe and meaningful choice for those who want to get to know Stockholm in depth.