Highfield Historic Site

Perched on a grassy headland overlooking the Bass Strait, Highfield Historic Site offers a compelling glimpse into Tasmania's early colonial past. This impeccably preserved 1830s homestead and farm complex was once the home of the Van Diemen's Land Company's chief agent, and today it stands as a beautifully restored testament to the region's pioneering history. The site’s windswept location, with sweeping ocean views and the rugged northwest coastline, adds a dramatic backdrop to your visit, making it a perfect stop for history buffs and those seeking a scenic, contemplative experience.

Highlights & What to See

• The Main Homestead: Wander through the elegantly furnished rooms, from the formal dining room to the cozy kitchen, each telling stories of 19th-century colonial life.
• Stables and Outbuildings: Explore the original stables, blacksmith's forge, and workers' cottages, which provide insight into the daily operations of a large estate.
• Interpretive Centre: Housed in the former granary, this centre offers engaging displays on the history of the Van Diemen's Land Company and the region's Indigenous heritage.
• Coastal Walking Trails: Follow short trails around the property to stunning lookout points over the Bass Strait, perfect for photography and spotting seabirds.
• The Formal Garden: A lovingly restored garden featuring period-appropriate plants and a serene atmosphere ideal for a quiet stroll.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate around 1.5 to 2 hours to thoroughly explore the homestead, outbuildings, and grounds. If you plan to walk the coastal trails or enjoy a picnic with a view, allow up to half a day. The site is best visited in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds are thin, especially during peak season.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Stanley: Just a 5-minute drive away, this charming fishing village is famous for the Nut, a volcanic plug offering panoramic views, and its historic pubs and seafood restaurants.
• Rocky Cape National Park: A 20-minute drive south, this park features dramatic coastal scenery, Aboriginal middens, and excellent short walks.
• Wynyard: About 30 minutes east, this town boasts a beautiful beach, the Table Cape tulip farm (in season), and a lively farmers' market.
• Burnie: A 40-minute drive east, Burnie offers the Makers' Workshop, a regional art gallery, and a penguin viewing platform at dusk.
• The Tarkine: For wilderness enthusiasts, the Tarkine region (a 45-minute drive south-west) offers ancient rainforests, wild rivers, and the famous Tarkine Drive.

Please check official sources for current details.