5 Reasons to Visit Port Arthur

Port Arthur is nestled on the picturesque harbour at the southern tip of the Tasman Peninsula, an hour and a half drive from Hobart. This significant site offers a rich history and an abundance of stories to be told about the harsh conditions the supposedly hardened convicts and officers endured here. Most Tasmania tours include a visit to Port Arthur – here are some reasons why.

A Rich and Vivid History

Once a penal colony where convicts worked to harvest wood from the surrounding forest, the Port Arthur Historic Site has been writing its way into history since 1830. Primarily servicing the timber trade, the felling work was considered a physical punishment for the crimes committed. The Separate Prison saw punishments shift from physical to psychological, and across the Port Arthur harbour the Point Puer Boys’ Prison became home to over 3000 prisoners across its 15 years in operation, some as young as nine.

Iconic and Stirring Stories

Convict stories of hardship and intrigue are embedded in the stone that still stands today. These will be brought to life as you explore the intact buildings and the historic remnants scattered across the site. Cruise across Port Arthur’s harbour to catch a glimpse of the Isle of the Dead, where over 1000 of Port Arthurs’ people were laid to rest. Do you believe in ghosts? Take a Ghost Tour to listen to ghost stories being whispered through the walls.

Extensive On-Site Facilities

Modern additions to the historical buildings make a visit to Port Arthur Historical Site a comfortable day out – no need to do it tough like those poor convicts did! Explore the Visitor Centre, enjoy interactive displays and exhibits in the Port Arthur Gallery, undertake some retail therapy at the Gift Shop, or relax in the well-maintained open spaces. Indulge your palate at the 1830 Restaurant and Bar, grab a coffee at the Port Arthur Café or Museum Coffee Shop, or sip a wine in the restored nineteenth century home of one of the most important dignitaries of the settlement – the Visiting Magistrates House.

Expansive World Heritage Listed Grounds

Spanning more than 100 acres of open land, the Port Arthur Historic Site is home to 30 enduring buildings. Some stand intact and some lie in ruins, but all comprise the award-winning tourist attraction that draws immense crowds wanting to immerse themselves in the rich history of Tasmania’s convict past. Featured as one of the 11 Australian Convict Sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Port Arthur is a place of global significance and a memorable experience during your tour of Tasmania.

The Scenic Journey from Hobart

The scenery around Port Arthur is as stunning as the site’s history is rich – there is something to see for more than just the history buffs out there! The drive from Hobart is an experience itself, snaking its way through lush forests and verdant farmland, past untouched beaches and spectacular coastlines. Drink in the view as you cross Eaglehawk Neck, joining the Tasman Peninsula to the mainland. Glimpse the rugged cliff faces of Pirate’s Bay Lookout and the intriguing geological creations of Tasman Arch, Devil’s Kitchen and the Blow Hole.