Historic Houses of Tasmania

Explore some of Australia’s great mansions and learn how the early colonialists lived. Tasmania is the cradle of Australia’s historic buildings; our isolation, small population and a strong community connection has meant our heritage has been preserved. So wherever you travel you will discover stunning examples of Georgian architecture. Some are open to the public others are in private hands, and they tell the story of those early settlers and their vision to create their own piece of home at the end of the world.

The National Trust Tasmania properties include rare examples of early colonial buildings and objects of National significance. ‘Clarendon’ is Australia’s iconic colonial mansion, Runnymede a rare 19th century whaling family’s home and the Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site is one of Australia’s most important convict sites pre-dating Port Arthur.

The Tasmanian Heritage Guide Membership has been specifically designed to assist visitors to Tasmania in navigating and experiencing the states rich heritage. Guide Membership includes free entry to all National Trust properties as well as discount entry to Woolmers Estate, Brickendon Estate, Shene, Don River Railway, Pioneer Museum, West Coat Pioneer Museum, Richmond Gaol, Highfield House, Beaconsfield Mine Museum, Markree, National Automobile Museum, Entally Estate, Port Arthur, Narryna and the Callington Mill.

Throughout May each year, the National Trust coordinates the Tasmanian Heritage Festival. The festival is Australia’s largest heritage festival attracting interstate and international visitors and includes the opportunity to experience many sites not usually available to the public.