Port Arthur

Port Arthur is a small town and former convict settlement on the Tasman Peninsula, in Tasmania, Australia. Port Arthur is one of Australia's most significant heritage areas and the open air museum is officially Tasmania's top tourist attraction. Known for its harsh conditions, dark history and stark beauty, it is located approximately 60 km south east of the state capital, Hobart. In 1996 it was the scene of the worst mass murder event in Australian history.

Tourism started up almost as soon as the last convicts had left, supplying the new residents with a source of income, part of its undoubtedly due to its unsavoury past, and the ghost stories that accompany it. In 1927 tourism had grown to the point where the area's name was reverted back to Port Arthur. 1916 saw the establishment of the Scenery Preservation Board (SPB) which took the management of Port Arthur out of the hands of the locals. By the 1970s the National Parks and Wildlife Service began managing the site.

In 1979 funding was received to preserve the site as a tourist destination, due to its historical significance. The "working" elements of the Port Arthur community such as the post office and municipal offices were moved to nearby Nubeena. Several magnificent sandstone structures, built by convicts working under hard labour conditions, were cleaned of ivy overgrowth and restored to a condition similar to their appearance in the 19th century. Buildings include the "Model Prison", the Round Tower, the church, and the remnants of the main penitentiary. The buildings are surrounded by lush green parkland.

The mass graves on The Island of the Dead also attract visitors. The air about the small bush-covered island being described as possessing "melancholic" and "tranquil" qualities by visitors.

Tourists can either survey the site for themselves, or participate in guided tours, including late night "ghost tours". There is also a museum, containing written records, tools, clothing and other curiosities from convict times.

11 °C

Clouds, broken clouds

Wind	2.83 m/s
Cloudiness	53 %
Temperature (min/max)	10/13 °C
Pressure	1027 hpa
Humidity	75 %

Last update: 20 Apr 2024 @ 01:23

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Sea Change Safety Cove
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
Visit Sea Change Safety Cove in Port ArthurREAD MORE
The Commandant's Table Restaurant2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
In Summer at The Commandant's Table Restaurant in Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia, take a drink out to the rose-bordered terrace to look over the site. In winter, settle by the open fire and most importantly, relax. READ MORE

Featured Businesses

Norfolk Bay Convict Station2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
The Norfolk Bay Convict Station in Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia is not only an historic icon of the area but is also a warm, friendly and comfortable place to stay. Many home comforts are offered as possible and guests can access the dial up internet to check their email, use the house phone when their mobile doesn't have coverage and access the photocopier and fax when it's needed.READ MORE
The Comfort Inn2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
The Comfort Inn Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia is the only hotel in the historic site. This accommodation has panoramic views of the famous ruins.READ MORE
Stewarts Bay Lodge2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
Stewarts Bay Lodge in Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia, sits on the coastline of the Tasman Peninsula ? a Tasmanian icon of immense physical beauty, incredible history, and rich natural diversity.READ MORE
Sea Change Safety Cove2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
Wake up to a stunning view of Tasman Island from your accommodation at Sea Change Safety Cove, Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia. Enjoy romantic walks on Safety Cove beach and enjoy the tranquil garden setting of this secluded location. Sea Change Safety Cove offers both solitude and natural beauty.READ MORE
Tasman Island Cruises2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
Tasman Island Cruises are Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australian residents who are very proud of the beauty of their wonderful home and its unique Tasmanian wildlife and love to share the Tasman Peninsula experience with others. Tasman Island Cruises boats are especially designed for eco-cruising. Their open design and excellent manoeuvrable structure allows passengers to get up as close as possible to sea and coastal wildlife, cliff faces, sea-caves. READ MORE
Port Arthur Caravan and Cabin Park2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
There are a variety of bushwalks available around the Port Arthur Caravan and Cabin Park, Tasmania, Australia, ranging from short half-hour family walks to overnight treks to Cape Pillar. A scenic foreshore walking trail connects the park to the Port Arthur Historic Site.READ MORE
Taylor's Restaurant2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
Enjoy your dining experience at Taylor's Restaurant, Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia with Ian and Jannet. Dine in a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy all of what the Tasman Peninsula offers, with great views and service to add to your experience.READ MORE
Lemo's Seafood and Roast Restaurant2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
Lemo's Seafood and Roast Restaurant in Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia suits every taste and budget. Lemo's is located 5 min before the Port Arthur Historic Site.READ MORE
Port Arthur Historic Site2009-03-04
Located in Port Arthur, Tasman Council, Tasmania, Australia
The Port Arthur Historic Site situated in Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia was created with convict labour, the impressive architecture, delightful gardens and chilling prison facilities survive today for you to explore. There is a variety of guided tours and also self-guided activities to enhance the educational experience of any schools visit.READ MORE