Discover Tasmania’s Hidden History at Willow Court

Discover nearly 200 years of history on the Willow Court Outdoor History Tour, an all-ages walking experience through the historic grounds of Australia’s oldest continuously operating mental health institution.  Located just 35 minutes from Hobart in New Norfolk, this captivating outdoor tour invites you to step back in time and see history come to life — all from outside the original heritage buildings.

Led by passionate tour guides, you’ll wander through atmospheric courtyards, original laneways, and iconic sandstone façades, uncovering the evolution of psychiatric care in Tasmania and the often-untold stories of those who lived and worked here.

Perfect for history buffs and cultural explorers alike, this guided outdoor walking tour brings to light the layered and complex past of one of Tasmania’s most significant heritage sites and is a must-do experience.

Book your tour today and step back in time.

Did you also know we host private history tours?  Contact us for more information.

WHERE DO WE MEET?

Our History Tour meeting point is at 11a The Avenue, New Norfolk.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Our History Tour is designed to be family-friendly and is suitable for children of all ages, however this tour may contain content and stories that some participants may find confronting, therefore parental guidance is advised.

This is a guided outdoor walking tour that includes a walk around some of the Willow Court site. Some access points may not be suitable for people with restricted mobility. It is not wheelchair accessible.

The buildings are temporarily closed due to unexpected maintenance; therefore, our tours do not include any internal access during this period.

Tours operate in most weather conditions, so please come prepared. You must wear flat enclosed shoes. No heels or thongs are permitted. Guests will be notified via SMS or email if the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather.  A raincoat or umbrella is always a good option.

Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled tour, to allow time to check in and move to your tour departure point.

All bookings are non-refundable or non-transferable and non–redeemable for cash. Please carefully review your tour, date and time before purchase.

Companion Card holders are welcomed on tour.

See our full Terms and Conditions prior to your ticket purchase.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

Join Billy Boots – a cheeky young convict boy as he helps the children explore Willow Court.

Each child will receive an activity sheet at the start of the tour.  As the family explores Willow Court on our guided history tour, Billy has created an activity sheet to encourage the children to spot clues, objects and details linked to the site’s history.

It is fun, family friendly learning woven into the tour experience and is FREE with every child ticket purchase.

History made interactive and exciting for children with a FREE keepsake for every child who participates.

This activity is available on all our Willow Court History Tours during the Tasmanian School Holidays and is suitable for children aged between 5 – 12 years.