The suburb of Battery Point feels like a world apart from the bustle of Hobart’s waterfront. On the hill just beyond Salamanca Place, leafy streets lined by historic workers’ cottages and grand mansions create the impression of a village frozen in time, rewarding those who take the time to wander.
Why is it called Battery Point?
Battery Point’s history stretches back to the early decades of European settlement in Tasmania. Its name goes back to an artillery battery established in 1818 to protect the young colony. Over time, sailors, shipbuilders, labourers and merchants settled in the area, shaping a suburb whose colonial character remains remarkably intact — even though the cannons themselves are long gone.
Places of interest
Battery Point takes pride in its historic streetscape and strong connection to Hobart’s maritime past. As you stroll around the suburb, don’t miss these highlights.
Note: We’ve arranged the stops clockwise, but you can explore them in either direction. A full loop is 2.3 km.
Kelly’s Steps
Kelly’s Steps have linked Salamanca Place and Battery Point since 1840. The historic shortcut, built into the escarpment by mariner James Kelly, consists of three narrow flights of sandstone stairs. They may just take a minute to climb, but they save you a long detour.
Princes Park
The 1818 battery behind the suburb’s name used to stand here. You can still find traces of the military past, including a signal station with its adjoining mast and an underground magazine. However, most visitors come to relax among the sloping lawns beautifully overlooking the River Derwent.
Arthur Circus
In the heart of Battery Point, a ring of picturesque 19th-century cottages framed by picket fences surrounds an old village green complete with horse chestnut trees and swings. It’s a gorgeous spot for a pit stop, with Mount Wellington looming in the background on clear days.
Shipwright Arms
Browse the collection of maritime memorabilia while enjoying a meal or drink at Shipwright Arms, or just Shippies, which has welcomed visitors since 1846. If you want to spend the night, there are nine rooms up for grabs.
Jackman & McRoss
Set in a red-brick building on Hampden Road, the suburb’s main strip, Jackman & McRoss lures locals and visitors alike with its wide range of freshly baked goods. The selection of pies is the greatest source of pride, with the scallop pie the most famous item.
St George’s Anglican Church
Continue to the top of Battery Point to find the sandstone St George’s Anglican Church, strategically built on the suburb’s highest point in 1838. The tower, added in 1847, was designed by a convict architect and has ever since been a landmark for seafarers navigating the River Derwent.
Narryna
A double-storey Georgian-style mansion, Narryna was erected in the 1830s as the home of merchant Andrew Haig. After having served many different purposes over the years, it’s today a museum with a collection that lets you explore life in early Hobart, as a wealthy settler or as a convict servant.
Getting here
It’s a 10-minute walk from the CBD’s waterfront to Kelly’s Steps, which lead up into Battery Point from Salamanca Place. If you’d rather skip the steps, you can also reach Battery Point from Salamanca Place via Runnymede Street or Montpelier Retreat.
Tips for visiting Battery Point
- It’s easiest to explore on foot, especially as parking is limited.
- Check the current opening hours of Narryna and plan accordingly.
- The weekly (Saturday) Salamanca Market is a delightful addition.
- If you like the historic vibe, consider staying in Battery Point.
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