Five Top Places to Visit in New Norfolk

by May (subscribe)

New Norfolk is the commercial centre of the Derwent Valley, located 40 kms northwest of Hobart on the Lyell Highway. The township is one steeped in history with its heritage buildings and colonial architecture whilst also embracing many modern influences. All this, surrounded by rolling hills, the Derwent River, and picturesque farming land make it the perfect country escape.

New Norfolk is the third oldest settlement in Tasmania established by evacuees relocated from Norfolk Island after the island prison was abandoned in 1807. Most were farming families that were offered land grants as compensation for their relocation.

So what are the Top Five Things to Visit in New Norfolk?

1.Tynwald Park

With or without Little People, this parkland is a delightful spot to stop to simply enjoy the vista. Playground equipment for the kiddies, picnic huts and barbecue facilities, and an expansive reserve in which to stretch your legs. There are also information boards giving insight into the local history dating back to the occupation by the First Nations people. The Road Safety Bike Track would keep the kiddies occupied for hours.

2.The Quilted Teapot Cafe

Located at 6 Bathurst Street in "The Close" on the grounds of St. Mathews Church, this is Tasmania's oldest Anglican Church, built in 1823. As well as being a quaint cafe for coffee and cake it is a patchwork quilters paradise, with a huge assortment of materials and accessories available for purchase. The display of quilts hanging on the walls is both colourful and enticing, even to those of us unable to thread a needle.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm & Saturday 9am -3pm

3.Arthur Square

Located in central New Norfolk this parkland at the entrance to the commercial centre is a popular meeting place for locals. Garden beds were in full flower during our visit and it was pleasant to sit and people-watch for half an hour. For those with an interest in AFL there is a bronze statue to homegrown hero, Peter Hudson.

4.The artHouse

This was my find for the day. The artHouse is a Cafe, an Exhibition/Event Space, and a Creative Retail outlet all in one. Located at 47a High Street, New Norfolk, there is both indoor and outdoor seating at which you can enjoy a light meal or coffee and cake. I know, I seem to have eaten my way around the Apple Isle.

Not only does the artHouse display artwork on its walls, but it encourages those of us who have no clue with all manner of kits to get us started on craft projects. Macrame, felting, appliqué, crochet, Origami, quilling kits and more for those who are young and not so young.

For information about exhibitions go here.

Opening hours are :

Sunday Closed

Monday Closed

Tuesday 7:30am–4pm

Wednesday 7:30am–4pm

Thursday 7:30am–4pm

Friday 7:30am–4pm

Saturday 8:30am–4pm

5.Antique Shopping

Not my thing but many people seem to love looking through these outlets looking for the perfect something at a bargain price. Personally, I've never come across any Errol Flynn memorabilia in Tasmania which is disappointing.

New Norfolk is home to several antique stores including the Drill Hall Emporium opposite Arthur Square. This building has been used since the Boer War when young men were recruited into the armed services.

There are numerous cafes, bakeries and pubs in New Norfolk in which to dine so you're not going to starve. There is also a selection of accommodation. We stayed at the Junction Motel on the corner of Lyell Highway and 50 Pioneer Drive, an easy walk into the township and which is almost a tourist attraction in itself.

For more information, go here. I really enjoyed my stay in New Norfolk. If I was ever to relocate to Tassie, this would be my spot.

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Why? Because a break in the country soothes the soul

Where: New Norfolk, Tasmania