Guided tours
Guided tours at Strömfors Ironworks
Take a guided tour of the historic ironworks area
The Strömfors Ironworks is one of Finland’s best-preserved historic ironworks sites. On a guided tour, you’ll get a deeper insight into the area’s stories, buildings, the history of the ironworks, and its vibrant cultural environment.
During the tour, you’ll learn how the ironworks district along the Kymijoki River has evolved over the centuries from an industrial setting into a unique destination for tourism, culture, and crafts. The guided tour is ideal for first-time visitors, history buffs, groups, and as part of a corporate visit program.
General tours during the summer season
During the summer, public guided tours are held at the Strömfors Ironworks. You can reserve a spot on the tour in advanceby calling the Pajamuseo guides at 040 630 2204, or you can come to the site and purchase a ticket at the Yläpaja Museum. Payment can be made in cash or by card.
The tour lasts about an hour. It offers a concise yet engaging overview of the history of the ironworks area, its buildings, and the people who have shaped the story of the Strömfors Ironworks.
From forging iron to the idyll of the Ironworks
June 24–August 2, 2026,Wednesdays at 2 p.m. andSundays at 12 p.m.
On this walking tour, you’ll learn about the history of one of Finland’s oldest ironworks and how it came to be. You’ll discover how the hammer mill, the manufacturing workshop, the sawmill, and the mill operate, and see all the activities that take place at the Strömfors Ironworks today.
Tickets:
- Adults €10, under 18 €5, under 7 free
Starting point:
Strömfors Ironworks, Yläpaja
Virginia af Forselles' dramatic interpretation
June 27–August 1, 2026 Saturdays at 12 p.m.
The "Iron Lady," Virginia af Forselles, ran the ironworks from 1790 to 1847. On this walking tour, she recounts her life, her work, and the operations of the ironworks, which she managed with energy and skill for 57 years. The tour also includes a visit to the church in Ruotsinpyhtää. Marjut Ståhls plays the role of Virginia.
Tickets:
- Adults €12, under 18 €7, under 7 €0
Starting point:
The small bridge in front of the church
Guided tours for groups
Guided tours can also be arranged for groups outside of regular tour times. A guided tour is a great addition to, for example, an association outing, a visit by a senior citizens’ group, a school field trip, a company team-building day, or corporate events for clients and staff.
Various guided tour options are available for groups, including walking tours focusing on architectural history, dramatized tours, and tours led by Loviisa guides. We recommend choosing a tour that best suits your group’s interests, schedule, and the rest of your itinerary.
The guided tour is easy to combine with Strömfors Ironworks’ other offerings. You can plan, for example, lunch or coffee, visits to museums and exhibitions, shopping at local shops, or other activities in the ironworks setting. This way, the guided tour becomes a full day of exploration in Ruotsinpyhtää, Loviisa—a historic setting where culture, crafts, food, nature, and local services come together.
