Norby Walking Tour

Nordby Walking Tour

- Old Fanø, New Fanø, and the Stories in Between

Join our new guide, David Clough, for a unique walking tour through Nordby, where the history of old Fanø meets the stories of the island today. As we wander through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll hear about Fanø’s maritime past, its proud traditions, and the everyday lives of the sailors and the women who kept the island running while the men were at sea.

We visit some of Nordby’s most characteristic historic houses with thatched roofs, crooked chimneys and colourful doors, and we stop by hidden corners that most visitors never notice. David will also take you to the old brewery near Krovej, where he shares a few local stories connected to the place.

A highlight of the tour is Kikkebjerg, the lookout hill once used by the island’s pilots to spot ships approaching Fanø. In 1895, the pilot even built a house for his family at the foot of the hill — a house that David now lives in himself on Lodsvej 25. From here, he tells the story of how Fanø’s pilots worked, how the island’s docks were eventually replaced by Esbjerg Harbour as ships grew larger, and how Fanø adapted after the construction of Esbjerg in the late 1800s.

Alongside the historical stories, David also offers a glimpse into modern Fanø — how the municipality has reinvented the island, how traditions have evolved, and how Fanø continues to balance heritage with contemporary life. Just a little bit of present‑day insight to complete the picture.

This walk is perfect for anyone who wants to experience Nordby in a deeper way — not just by seeing the town, but by understanding the history, the culture, and the people who shaped it.

David Clough teaches at FOF Aftenskolen and lives on Fanø with his Danish wife and their son. Originally from the UK, he has spent years learning about Fanø’s past and present, and he shares his knowledge with warmth, humour and enthusiasm.

Expect to walk approx. 2 km. After the tour, you are welcome to explore Nordby on your own. Fanø is one of the most charming destinations in the Wadden Sea — only 12 minutes by ferry from Esbjerg.

Meeting point: The dog sculpture next to the ferry. Note: Your ferry ticket from Esbjerg is a return ticket. For the ferry schedule, search Molslinjen Fanø. The ferry runs every twenty minutes.