Guides / The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition

Windhelm

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition guide · Investigating the Thalmor or seeking the Elder Scroll

Windhelm is the ancient seat of the Stormcloak rebellion and the capital of Eastmarch, ruled by Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak from the Palace of the Kings. During main quest investigations, you can speak to the Altmer fence Niranye to arrange entry into the Thalmor Embassy, or consult with court wizard Wuunferth the Unliving regarding magical lore and the College of Winterhold when seeking an Elder Scroll. You can also explore the Gray Quarter and the docks to hire sea transport or investigate local unrest.

Region: Eastmarch
Getting there: North-east of High Hrothgar, or north of Riften following the road through Eastmarch across the stone bridge over the White River
Connects to: Palace of the Kings, Winterhold, Dawnstar, The Rift
Related quests: Diplomatic Immunity · Elder Knowledge
Services and people: Niranye · Wuunferth the Unliving · Ulfric Stormcloak · Palace of the Kings

Achievements here

Proud ParentAdopt an orphan, such as Sofie in Windhelm or a child from the Honorhall Orphanage, after owning a home with a child's bedroom.

Achievement guide and roadmap →

Items

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Unusual Gem: Wuunferth the Unliving's quarters in the Palace of the KingsHorkerbane: On the wreck of the Pride of Tel Vos northeast across the river from Windhelm docks

Secrets

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The Hidden Closet in Hjerim | Enter the home during or after the quest "Blood on the Ice" and investigate the false back of the wardrobe to reveal a hidden necromantic altar.

Enemies

Calixto Corrium

Steal / drop Necromancer Amulet

Encountered in the Stone Quarter during the climax of the quest "Blood on the Ice".

Shops and people

The White Phial (Nurelion / Quintus Navale): Alchemy ingredients, potions, and recipes
Sadri's Used Wares (Revyn Sadri): General goods, weapons, armor, and Speech training
Niranye: General goods, weapons, armor, and thieves' fence services once unlocked
Wuunferth the Unliving: Destruction magic skill training, spell tomes, and soul gems

Tips

If you plan to smuggle equipment into the Thalmor Embassy via Malborn, pass through Windhelm to visit Niranye if you require additional lockpicks or general supplies beforehand.
Entering Windhelm multiple times at night will trigger the investigation quest "Blood on the Ice" in the graveyard, which is necessary to complete if you ever wish to purchase the local home, Hjerim.

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Riften

Winterhold

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