New Norfolk Tasmania
Historic Tasmanian town offering a tranquil escape with unique culinary experiences and picturesque landscapes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Misty landscapes and crisp air
New Norfolk Tasmania
Best Time
Misty landscapes and crisp air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Tasmanian town offering a tranquil escape with unique culinary experiences and picturesque landscapes.
"A charming blend of history, nature, and exceptional farm-to-table dining."
🚗 Drive from Hobart
New Norfolk is about a 40-minute drive from Hobart, making it an easy day trip or a peaceful base.
☕ Cozy Cafe Culture
Enjoy the local cafe scene, especially spots like Black Swan for a delightful blend of coffee and books.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Agrarian Kitchen
Old mental asylum site
Experience farm-to-table dining in a unique setting, with ingredients sourced from their own garden. A true taste of Tasmania.

Black Swan Cafe & Library
Town square
A cozy spot blending a cafe with a library, offering delicious treats and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed break.

Valleyfield Views
Surrounding countryside
Enjoy picturesque landscapes, especially during autumn, offering stunning vistas and a sense of tranquility.

Abandoned New Norfolk Asylum
Outskirts of town
For the adventurous, explore the eerie remnants of this historic asylum, a site with a dark and intriguing past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pace
Historic Charm & Natural Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive from Hobart
New Norfolk is about a 40-minute drive from Hobart, making it an easy day trip or a peaceful base.
☕ Cozy Cafe Culture
Enjoy the local cafe scene, especially spots like Black Swan for a delightful blend of coffee and books.
🚶♂️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the historic streets to soak in the town's unique character and colonial architecture.
🌿 Garden Delights
Discover the beauty of Tasmanian gardens, whether public or private, for a breath of fresh air.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive from Hobart
New Norfolk is about a 40-minute drive from Hobart, making it an easy day trip or a peaceful base.
☕ Cozy Cafe Culture
Enjoy the local cafe scene, especially spots like Black Swan for a delightful blend of coffee and books.
🚶♂️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the historic streets to soak in the town's unique character and colonial architecture.
🌿 Garden Delights
Discover the beauty of Tasmanian gardens, whether public or private, for a breath of fresh air.
🚴♀️ Cycling Adventures
Embrace the outdoors with cycling routes through scenic countryside and forests.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise New Norfolk for its charming historic atmosphere, tranquil natural surroundings, and unique culinary experiences like the Agrarian Kitchen. The town's relaxed pace and friendly community are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some find the limited nightlife and fewer modern amenities compared to larger cities to be a drawback.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New Norfolk is conveniently located about a 40-minute drive east of Hobart. You can rent a car for the most flexibility or check for local bus services connecting the two towns.
While public transport options exist, they may be less frequent than in larger cities. Renting a car is often recommended for exploring the surrounding areas and enjoying the flexibility of your itinerary.
The roads leading to and around New Norfolk are generally well-maintained. Be prepared for scenic, winding country roads, especially if you venture into the surrounding hills and forests.
The closest major airport is Hobart Airport (HBA), which is approximately a 50-minute drive from New Norfolk. From there, you can pick up a rental car or arrange for transport.
New Norfolk is a relatively small town, and most attractions within the town center are easily walkable. For exploring further afield, a car is beneficial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your dining experience at Agrarian Kitchen well in advance, as it's a popular farm-to-table restaurant with a unique setting.
Access to the abandoned New Norfolk Asylum is typically for urban exploration and may involve trespassing risks. It's advisable to research local regulations and safety precautions thoroughly if considering visiting.
Many public gardens and natural areas in and around New Norfolk are free to access. However, some private gardens or specific attractions might have a small entry fee.
Black Swan Cafe typically operates during standard cafe hours, but it's always a good idea to check their latest opening times directly, especially on public holidays.
While not always formally advertised, you might find local guides or historical societies offering walking tours of the town's heritage sites. Inquire locally for current offerings.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Families can enjoy exploring the town's historic sites, visiting local parks, and experiencing the unique charm of cafes like Black Swan. The surrounding natural beauty also offers opportunities for outdoor activities.
Popular activities include exploring historic buildings, enjoying farm-to-table dining at Agrarian Kitchen, cycling through the countryside, and visiting local cafes and markets.
Absolutely! New Norfolk offers picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and charming rural scenes, especially beautiful during autumn and spring.
New Norfolk has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community. It's known for its historic charm and tranquil surroundings.
New Norfolk often hosts local markets, particularly on weekends, offering fresh produce, crafts, and local goods. Check local listings for current market days and times.
🍽️ 🔪 Food & Dining
For a unique experience, try Agrarian Kitchen for farm-to-table dining. Black Swan Cafe offers delightful treats and coffee. You'll also find other local pubs and eateries serving regional fare.
The food scene emphasizes fresh, local produce, with farm-to-table concepts like Agrarian Kitchen being a highlight. Expect hearty, regional Tasmanian cuisine.
Many cafes and restaurants, especially those focusing on fresh ingredients, will offer vegetarian options. It's always best to inquire about vegan choices when ordering.
Yes, local produce is a staple. Look out for local markets or farm stands to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and other artisanal products.
Tasmanian specialties often include fresh seafood (like salmon and oysters), lamb, berries, and artisanal cheeses. Many local eateries will feature these ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the misty mornings, historic architecture, and scenic countryside. Valleyfield offers stunning vistas, and the town itself has charming streets.
Early mornings often provide beautiful misty light, perfect for atmospheric shots. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers warm, flattering light for landscapes and townscapes.
The abandoned asylum offers a unique, albeit eerie, subject for photographers. The historic buildings and the surrounding natural beauty also provide plenty of character.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is great for landscapes and town shots. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive scenery, and a telephoto can isolate details.
Drone photography regulations vary. Always check the latest CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) guidelines and local restrictions before flying a drone in Tasmania.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a taste of local life, look out for weekend markets where children can discover local crafts and produce. The surrounding countryside also offers space for kids to run around and explore. While the abandoned asylum might be too intense for younger children, families can still appreciate the historical aspects of the town through its architecture and stories.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The Agrarian Kitchen offers a memorable solo dining experience, allowing you to savor exceptional food and appreciate the farm-to-table ethos. For those interested in history with a touch of intrigue, the abandoned asylum provides a unique, albeit solitary, exploration. The peaceful surroundings and the opportunity for reflection make New Norfolk a perfect retreat.
🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Beyond Agrarian Kitchen, explore the local cafe scene, such as Black Swan, for delightful baked goods and coffee. Keep an eye out for local markets that showcase Tasmania's fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other regional specialties. The emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients means you'll find authentic Tasmanian flavors throughout the town.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into New Norfolk's History
Beyond its institutional past, New Norfolk has also been a hub for agriculture and industry. The Derwent River has played a crucial role in its development, supporting farming and providing transport links. Today, the town strives to balance its historical heritage with modern development, offering visitors a unique window into Tasmania's past. The historic architecture throughout the town provides a constant reminder of its layered history.
Culinary Delights at Agrarian Kitchen
Beyond the dining experience, Agrarian Kitchen offers workshops and garden tours, allowing guests to deepen their understanding of sustainable food practices and the provenance of their meals. This hands-on approach, combined with the unique historical setting, makes it a standout destination for food lovers and those interested in the connection between land and plate. It's a place where you can truly taste Tasmania in its purest form.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of New Norfolk
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the area provides ample opportunities. Cycling is a popular pastime, with routes ranging from gentle riverside paths to more challenging gravel tracks through forests. The region is also ideal for leisurely walks, photography, and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the natural surroundings of New Norfolk offer a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit