Things to do
in Stanley
THINGS TO DO IN STANLEY
The Nut & Chairlift
Chairlift, Ph 6458 1482.
The solidified core of a volcano, the “Nut” dominates the historic town nestled at its base. Make the steep hike to the top anytime or take the more leisurely option of the chairlift, operating daily from 9:30am till 4.15pm (opening and closing times may vary depending on weather and season).
You can drive to the base via Church and Marshall Streets or walk from town via a track opposite the Post Office. Visit the Nut Café & Store for refreshments and souvenirs while you’re there.
Highfield House
Green Hills Road, Stanley Ph 6458 1100
The original headquarters of the Van Diemans Land Company, you may have already spotted Highfield House perched atop the Green Hills to the North. Take a self-guided tour or, as a group, be guided by a staff member in period costume. You can even don the costumes yourself for a studio photo. Highfield opens daily 9:30am – 4:30pm, September to May, weekdays only June to August.
Penguins
Little penguins come ashore around Stanley at dark. Penguins can be seen from the viewing platform at Godfrey’s beach. The best time of the year is between September and March. Fewer numbers can be seen over the winter months.
Joe Lyons' Cottage
14 Alexander Terrace, Ph 6458 2091
Open 10.00am – 4.00pm 1st September – 31st May
The 1879 birthplace of Tasmania’s only Australian Prime minister, Joe Lyons Cottage is furnished in keeping with the Lyons’ era and houses a large collection of photographs from his life and times.). Entry by gold coin donation.
Stanley Discovery Museum
Church Street, Ph 6458 2091
UMAT
Next door to St Paul’s Anglican Church (c.1888), this volunteer run museum displays a diverse range of memorabilia, historical and general information about the area as wel as genealogical records available for those who have ancestors from Stanley to peruse
Golf
32 Marine Esplanade, Ph 6458 1395
Have a relaxing game of golf at Stanley’s 9-hole course. Clubs are available for hire for a minimal fee. Join the locals for Wednesday’s twilight comp where competition to win a local box of vegies is fierce! The course is links-style with fairway undulations, set in hind-dunes about ten metres back from the water. The green and fairways are well watered and are in great condition. The course is short, par 66 (33-33) and ACR: 64 but with varying wind conditions the course is always challenging even for those who play regularly.
Stanley's Historic Cemetery
A stroll through the picturesque, historic cemetery situated below the Nut near Godfrey’s Beach, provides a somewhat sad, but fascinating glimpse into the history of our township.
Beaches
Godfreys Beach (“top beach” to the locals) on the north side of the Nut has a fantastic playground and BBQ facilities. The beach itself is popular for swimming and (if you’re lucky) surfing, although heed the warnings about the strong currents and submerged rocks. Tatlows Beach (“bottom beach”) is more sheltered for the littlies to take a dip and a good choice if a long stroll is needed to blow the cobwebs away.
Playgrounds
There are playgrounds at both of Stanley’s beaches. If you head north, along Church Street, you’ll get to Godfreys beach which has swings, slide and climbing frame and a big grassy area. There are new toilet and shower facilities and a sheltered BBQ and picnic area. If you head south, along Wharf Road, past the cabin park, you’ll find Tatlows Beach with swings and slide and a toilet block.
Stanley Heritage Walk
Explore the historic village of Stanley and uncover its past in the footsteps of Stanley- born writer and artist Meg Eldridge. The walk is self-guided and explores the history, architecture and culture of this diverse village, enhanced with QR code technology. Information can also be found at www.stanleyheritagewalk.com.au and there is a visitors guide and map available from Reception or the Stanley Visitor Information Centre.
Shopping
Boutique and speciality shops can be found dotted along Church Street. Treat yourself to coffee, cake or lunch at one of the many cafes. The Nut Cafe & Store located next to the Chairlift also has a large range of gifts and souvenirs. If your needs are more of the everyday kind, you’ll find all the major services in Smithton.
Cow & Calf Gallery
Church Street, Ph 0439 251 151
The Cow and Calf Gallery showcases fine Tasmanian art and craft. Wilderness photography is a particular feature. Open daily from 9:00-5:00