The Archer family has been tending these lands for almost 200 years.

Immerse yourself in the incredible story of the Archer family, assigned convicts, free workers and the beginnings of Australia’s pastoral and agricultural industry.

Brickendon is one of Tasmania’s oldest farming properties, settled in 1824 by William Archer. The farm has been continuously operated and lived on by his direct descendants, now in their seventh generation.

In , Brickendon Estate, along with its neighbouring property, Woolmers Estate, was listed jointly as a World Heritage Site being part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.

The two Estates are regarded as the most significant rural estates in Australia, having the second largest number of convict workers and still retaining a living history from early European settlement to the present day. The stunning rural landscape, magnificent Heritage Gardens, amazing collection of convict constructed buildings, family history and memorabilia are all to be enjoyed by our visitors and cottage guests.

If you have any connection with the early history of Australia, be it a convict ancestor, farm worker, tradesman or free settler, Brickendon, along with Woolmers, will offer you an extraordinary opportunity to discover and connect with your past.

Opening hours

Brickendon Historic Farm Village and Heritage Gardens are currently open to day visitors.

October–May
Tuesday to Sunday
9.30am–5pm (last entry 4.15pm)

June–September
Tuesday to Sunday
10am–4pm (last entry 3.15pm)

  • Accommodation guests are welcome any day and have unlimited access to the Farm Village and Heritage Gardens.
  • Groups are welcome but please book in advance.
  • Animal feeding starts at 10.15am daily.
  • Closed Christmas Day.
Blacksmith’s shop in the foreground with the convict quarters, carpenter’s hut, sawyer’s hut and chapel visible behind, c1880.
Blacksmith’s shop in the foreground with the convict quarters, carpenter’s hut, sawyer’s hut and chapel visible behind, c1880.