Free Tours At Port Arthur
Historic site and penal settlement near Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Visit Australia's convict past at Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula near Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. Free tours are offered with a two-day entry pass.
There are several free tours offered at the Port Arthur Historic Site one of the premier tourist destinations in Australia, on the rugged Tasman Peninsula, near Hobart, Tasmania. Visitors are offered an opportunity to fully appreciate Australia’s convict history by stepping back in time at this magnificently restored penal settlement.
Included in the price of your ticket, which remains valid for two days are several free tours:-
Guided Historic Walk
The guided walking tours leave the visitor’s centre throughout the day and are lead by expert tour guides. Check with staff to get the day’s schedule.
The tour will include a brief history of the site and visits to the “model” prison, asylum, commandant residence, penitentiary, officer’s headquarters, medical officer’s home, Smith O’Brien’s Cottage and a pleasant “walk and talk” through the grounds. There is no better way to get an appreciation for this expansive living museum than with a walking tour of the grounds.
The free harbour cruise lasts about twenty minutes and takes in the stunning scenery and gives the visitor a new perspective to the Port Arthur penal settlement. The cruises run subject to weather and only during the warmer months.
Free Garden Tours
During summer from November through to February special guided tours are available of the extensive grounds and the beautifully restored gardens at Port Arthur. Guided garden tours take the visitor on a fascinating exploration of the historic gardens with expert guides to discuss the plants, the food and the gardeners who tended these havens in such a harsh environment.
Included in the tour are the within the grounds of Port Arthur and include the delightful flower and vegetable gardens at Trentham Cottage and the recreation of the 1858 Government Gardens.
At the end of the tour visitors can purchase heritage seeds at the Port Arthur Heritage Seed Nursery.
Free Archaeology Tours
Port Arthur Historic Site have a Public Archaeology Program which are held in the summer months of January and February. These tours are “hands-on” and include explanations of the process of revealing the past at Port Arthur through archaeological excavations and guided tours through the diggings.
Children can experience life as an archaeologist by taking part in a 'Kids Dig'.
These activities are popular and so it would be best to phone ahead for specific details and times to avoid disappointment.
For a modest rate several additional tours are available including:
Contact
Phone: +61 (0)3 6251 2300
Address: Arthur Highway
Port Arthur TAS 7182
Australia
