Top things to do in New Norfolk, Tasmania

Let a local show you around their town for an insider’s guide to all the best bits.

New Norfolk is a charming town situated on the River Derwent, just 38 kilometres northwest of Hobart with a modest population of approximately 5432. New Norfolk, the third oldest settlement in Tasmania, was established by prisoners from Norfolk Island after the gaol was abandoned in 1807. It is a town rich in character, dotted with heritage architecture and antique stores, a hub for growing hops, and surrounded by picturesque rural scenery. But when it comes to top things to do in New Norfolk, it’s best to ask an expert. We’ve turned to Tammy Baird. As part-owner of three of New Norfolk’s much-loved businesses: The Drill Hall Emporium, which sells authentic antiques in an old army drill hall; Miss Arthur, an exquisite store of handcrafted homewares; and Flywheel, which specialises in boutique stationery and letterpress printing. Here, this curator of good taste shares with us the perfect day in New Norfolk, Tasmania.

9am: Swan down to the river

Head into New Norfolk, which is just a short stroll along the Esplanade on the River Derwent. Admire beautiful Woodbridge on the Derwent, a heritage-listed boutique hotel constructed circa 1825.

The misty River Derwent is a sight to behold.

10am: Know the drill

Pack your eco bags for a saunter down Stephen Street. Drop into The Drill Hall Emporium for antiques, Miss Arthur for handcrafted homewares and The Black Swan for books. Grab a pastry to enjoy in Arthur Square.

11.30am: Explore the town

Flywheel is a boutique stationery store with a working letterpress studio halfway along High Street. We stock stationery from around the world along with our own handcrafted stationery. You may get to see the 1920s printing press in action.

The flywheel boutique stationery store

12.30pm: Track down the barracks

Wander the Willow Court Barracks, Australia’s first purpose-built mental asylum, which operated continuously for more than 170 years and pre-dates Port Arthur Historic Site.

1pm: Enjoy quality local produce

Enjoy a paddock-to-plate lunch at The Agrarian Kitchen eatery, owned by Rodney Dunn and Séverine Demanet, founders of the Agrarian kitchen cooking school.

The Agrarian Kitchen eatery heroes paddock to plate

2.45pm: Wander to waterfalls

Drive along the River Derwent to Russell Falls in Mt Field National Park, admiring hop kilns at bushy park estates along the way. It is a short walk to this spectacular waterfall.

Russell Falls glory

4pm: Have a beer or three

Head back through Rosegarland and stop at Two Metre Tall Brewery for a pint of hand-pumped ale and cider.