Anglesea Barracks and Army Museum
Explore Tasmania's military past through artifacts and stories at historic Anglesea Barracks, a hidden gem offering deep historical insights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Anglesea Barracks and Army Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Tasmania's military past through artifacts and stories at historic Anglesea Barracks, a hidden gem offering deep historical insights.
"A hidden treasure filled with artefacts & memorabilia that tell so many stories. Well worth the visit!"
Ask the Experts! 🗣️
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share stories. Their insights make the visit truly special.
Hidden Gem Alert! ✨
Often overlooked, this museum is packed with fascinating artifacts and history. Don't miss it!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Era Artifacts
Discover original pieces and memorabilia detailing British colonial and historic military engagements.
WWI Memorabilia
See compelling photos and artifacts that bring to life the experiences of soldiers from World War I.
Barracks History
Learn about the former Hobart Girls Reformatory/Prison cells and the barracks' military significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Military History
Engage with Expert Guides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ask the Experts! 🗣️
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share stories. Their insights make the visit truly special.
Hidden Gem Alert! ✨
Often overlooked, this museum is packed with fascinating artifacts and history. Don't miss it!
Support the Museum 💖
A small shop offers items for purchase, with all proceeds directly supporting the museum's preservation.
Plan for Depth 📚
Even in a small space, the collection is extensive. Allow ample time to absorb the stories.
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask the Experts! 🗣️
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share stories. Their insights make the visit truly special.
Hidden Gem Alert! ✨
Often overlooked, this museum is packed with fascinating artifacts and history. Don't miss it!
Support the Museum 💖
A small shop offers items for purchase, with all proceeds directly supporting the museum's preservation.
Plan for Depth 📚
Even in a small space, the collection is extensive. Allow ample time to absorb the stories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Anglesea Barracks and Army Museum as a hidden treasure, filled with fascinating artifacts and compelling stories from Tasmania's military past. The knowledgeable guides are a major highlight, offering deep insights and personal anecdotes that enrich the experience. While the museum is housed in a compact space, the collection is extensive and well-presented, making it a highly recommended and often free activity.
"This was a hidden treasure. Filled with artefacts & memorabilia that tell so many stories. There are many original pieces as well as photos dating back to WWI. Steve has a wealth of knowledge and answered all of our questions. Such a great activity, especially for free. Small shop to purchase some items & all proceeds go to the museum. Well worth the visit. Thank you Steve &"
Caitlyn
"I'm from Queensland and I was determined to visit. My dad was captured with the Tasmanian 2/40th Battalion. Google maps got me to the general area. So glad I was determined. They have put a lot in a small place, without it being crowded. I learnt so much about that part of my dad's history, plus so much more."
Andy Coller
"Visited an hour prior to closing and what we read and saw was very interesting & informative. An extensive collection of articles & items (esp medals) housed in a small building of what used to be Hobart Girls Reformatory/Prison cells. It was just the 2 of us and we were escorted into the Barracks by Major Reeves who gave us a good insight into the history of the Barracks and its buildings. Thank you Sir, for your time and we hope you enjoy your holiday in Waiheke Island."
Jules Whiteman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anglesea Barracks is located in Hobart, Tasmania. While specific public transport details might vary, it's often accessible by car or taxi. Some visitors mention using Google Maps to find the general area.
Information on dedicated visitor parking can be limited. It's advisable to check with the museum directly or look for nearby public parking options in Hobart.
The museum is housed in historic buildings, which may present accessibility challenges. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to inquire about specific accessibility features.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official museum website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. Some reviews mention visiting an hour before closing.
Many visitors describe the museum as a 'great activity, especially for free,' suggesting that admission may be by donation or free. However, it's always wise to confirm current pricing.
Given that it's often described as a 'hidden treasure' and can be quiet, advance booking might not be necessary. However, for group visits or specific tours, it's a good idea to inquire.
Yes, visitors can explore the museum independently. However, engaging with the volunteer guides significantly enhances the experience with historical context and stories.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a rich collection of artifacts and memorabilia detailing British colonial-era military engagements, WWI history, and the daily lives of soldiers and women serving the country. +1
Yes, knowledgeable guides, often retired military personnel, are frequently available to provide insights and answer questions, making the visit highly informative. +1
While the museum is in a small building, the collection is extensive. Visitors recommend allowing at least an hour, and potentially more, to fully appreciate the exhibits and stories.
The barracks themselves are historic, with parts of the site having previously served as Hobart Girls Reformatory/Prison cells, adding another layer of historical interest to your visit.
The museum offers a historical perspective that can be educational for older children interested in military history. However, the content is primarily focused on adult historical narratives.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography restrictions to ensure you comply.
The historic architecture of the barracks and the detailed artifacts within the museum offer many photographic opportunities. Focus on capturing the essence of the exhibits and the colonial feel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit around specific stories or artifacts that might capture a child's imagination, such as tales of bravery or the evolution of military equipment. The knowledgeable guides can also tailor their explanations to be more accessible for younger visitors, making the history come alive.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the detailed exhibits and engage with the guides. The unique history of the barracks themselves, including their past as a reformatory, adds another fascinating layer for those interested in broader historical contexts.
💰 Budget Travelers
While admission might be by donation, the value derived from the rich historical content and the engaging insights from guides is significant. It's a chance to experience a piece of Tasmanian history without a hefty price tag.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Stories Within the Barracks
The museum showcases a diverse range of items, from original pieces and photos dating back to WWI to memorabilia detailing British colonial-era engagements. The intimate setting, described as a 'hidden treasure,' allows for a focused exploration of these significant historical moments. It’s a place where you can truly learn about the lives of those who served.
Beyond the military focus, the barracks themselves hold a layered history, including their past as Hobart Girls Reformatory/Prison cells. This adds a unique dimension to the site, offering a broader understanding of its historical significance in Tasmania.
Experiencing the Museum: A Visitor's Perspective
Many reviewers emphasize the personal touch provided by the museum's staff and volunteers. The opportunity to be escorted into the Barracks by individuals like Major Reeves, who share insights into the history, is frequently highlighted as a standout element. This personalized approach makes the historical narratives feel more immediate and impactful.
For those with a personal connection to military history, such as a family member who served, the museum offers a profound opportunity for discovery. One visitor found it deeply moving to learn about their father's history through the exhibits, underscoring the museum's ability to connect visitors to their heritage.
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