TasVacations Blog
New Norfolk
New Norfolk - a picturesque town set on the banks of the River Derwent, rich in history and now the commercial and residential heart of the Derwent Valley.
Located a 30-minute drive north-west from Hobart, New Norfolk is the perfect stopping point on your way to the west coast or a day trip whilst staying in southern Tasmania.
Being a Hobart local myself, we're often in the area for a number of reasons - including a visit to the local Tynwald Park which caters to all ages. From a children’s play area and bike track, soccer fields and baseball net to BBQ facilities, along with a riverside walk perfect for a morning stroll with your furry friend or significant other.
| River Derwent, New Norfolk - Photo by Stu Gibson |
On my last visit to the area, we decided to make the most of our day by browsing through the local market. On Saturdays, the Banjos New Norfolk Market takes place in the centre of town offering a range of antique, pre-loved and handmade goods along with delicious treats from the food stalls - including fresh sourdough bread straight from the oven!
We then headed into the local speciality and antique stores including Miss Arthur, a beautiful home goods store which concentrates on traditional and handcrafted products. Next door is their sister store, The Drill Hall Emporium, which has been described as more of an experience than your typical antique store - from country house furniture, textiles, and kitchenware, you are sure to find something that catches your eye! If you are a lover of stationary and typography, don’t forget to drop into Fly Wheel, a stunning store which has its own letterpress studio.
New Norfolk is also home to The Big Tasmanian Rock Shop, housing thousands of local and international gems, rocks, minerals, and crystals. We spent at least half an hour rummaging through the collection and picking out the perfect rocks to take home. Prices were very reasonable, and the owners were hospitable to all customers entering the store and taking the time to help everyone.
If you are looking for a bite to eat, The Agrarian Kitchen offers 2 dining options including a sit-down dining area called The Eatery or an outside casual take away option named The Kiosk.
We opted for takeaway which, depending on the day, includes a variety of pasties, sandwiches, soup and sweet treats. Whilst you are here check out Willow Court, a former asylum located next door to the Agrarian Kitchen, which was the oldest continually run asylum located on the same site.
There is loads more to check out in New Norfolk, and the area is continually growing, so be sure to stop by or make a day out of it whilst holidaying in Tasmania!
