The Penitentiary: A Glimpse into Australia's Dark Past
Explore The Penitentiary in Port Arthur, Tasmania: a historical landmark reflecting Australia’s convict past amidst stunning natural beauty.
Discover The Penitentiary in Port Arthur, Tasmania, a historical landmark where visitors can explore Australia's convict history through immersive experiences and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This site offers a unique window into a time when the island was a notorious penal colony, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to The Penitentiary
- Port Arthur, Tasmania, 7182, AU
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Consider taking a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and stories of the site.
- Don’t forget your camera; the architecture and surrounding scenery are breathtaking.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Check the local weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in Tasmania.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, you can start from Hobart, which is approximately 1.5 hours away. Take the Southern Outlet (A6) from Hobart, then follow the signs to the Tasman Highway (A3). Continue on the A3, which will take you directly to the Tasman Peninsula. Once you reach Port Arthur, follow the Arthur Highway until you arrive at The Penitentiary, located at Port Arthur TAS 7182. There is free parking available nearby.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus from Hobart to Port Arthur. The bus service is operated by Tassielink Transit. Make sure to check the current schedule and fares on their website. The bus will drop you off at the Port Arthur Historic Site, which is within walking distance to The Penitentiary. The walk is approximately 15 minutes; just head towards the main visitor center and follow the signs to The Penitentiary.
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Walking
If you are already in Port Arthur and wish to walk, The Penitentiary is about 1.5 kilometers from the Port Arthur Historic Site entrance. You can follow the main road towards the site, and as you approach the historic area, look for signs directing you to The Penitentiary. The walk will take around 20 to 30 minutes, and it is a scenic route through the historic grounds.
Discover more about The Penitentiary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Eaglehawk Neck
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Tasman Bay National Park Lookout
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Iron Pot Lighthouse
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tasmanian wilderness experiences
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The Neck Game Reserve Lookout
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Yogis Lookout
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The Shot Tower Historic Site and The Tower Tearoom
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The Searchlight
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Mount Nelson Signal Station
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Bellerive Beach
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Kangaroo Bluff reserve
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Old Sandstone Mile Marker
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Rosny Point
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Rosny Hill Lookout
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Unmissable attractions to see
Memorial Garden
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The Original Gardens Fountain
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Port Arthur Ghost Tours
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Separate Prison
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Time Capsule
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Port Arthur Historic Site
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Government Gardens
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Scorpion Rock Lookout
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Limekiln
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Tasman Island Cruises
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Stewarts Bay Beach
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Isle of the Dead Cemetery
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Point Puer
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Safety Cove beach
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Port Arthur
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Essential places to dine
1830 Restaurant and Bar, Port Arthur
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Commandants Table Restaurant
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On the Bay Restaurant
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The Fox and Hounds Restaurant
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McHenry Distillery
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Lucky Ducks Cafe
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Nubeena Tavern
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Fish Lips Cafe & Accommodation
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Little Norfolk Bay Bistro & Chalets
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Doo-lishus
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Blue Seal Seafood Shack
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Lufra Bistro
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Lufra Hotel and Apartments
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Dunalley Seaside Fish & Chips
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The Cannery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Port Arthur Historic Site Gift Shop
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Port Arthur General Store & Takeaways
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IGA X-Press Nubeena (Seabreeze)
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IGA Everyday Nubeena
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Natural Horse World Store - Shop online anytime or by appointment.
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South East Tasmania Salvos Thrift Shop
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Fancy Fabric
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WILDspace Creations
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Bruny Island Honey
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Eco by design Gifts
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Seven Mile Beach Store
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Runway News
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Bruny Island Gifts
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The Faerie Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Dunalley Hotel
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The Birdcage Bar
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The Salamanca Whisky Bar
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The Brick Factory
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The Story Bar
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Jack Greene Bar
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Society Salamanca
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