The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens lie on the Queens Domain above the River Derwent, a short walk or drive from central Hobart. Established in 1818, they are the second-oldest botanical gardens in Australia, with 14 hectares of lawns, tree-lined paths and plant collections. Highlights include the Japanese Garden, the Subantarctic Plant House and the lily pond with its ducks. Entry is free. Allow a couple of hours to walk the grounds at an unhurried pace.
Planted from 1818
The gardens were established in 1818 on the Queens Domain, a hilly bushland area bordering the city centre. They are the second-oldest botanical gardens in Australia.
The 14-hectare site holds more than 6,000 exotic and native plant species. Tasmania's own native flora is a particular strength of the collection.
The Subantarctic Plant House
This is Australia's only Subantarctic Plant House. It holds plants from high southern latitudes, particularly Macquarie Island.
The room is kept cold and misty. A soundtrack of crashing waves and penguin calls plays inside. Walking back out into the Tasmanian sun is a clear change from the room you have just left.
The Japanese Garden and the lily pond
The Japanese Garden has a red bridge and a display that changes through the year, from cherries and irises to maples.
The lily pond has ducks and ducklings, and a white bridge crosses it. Both bridges make good spots for photographs.
The heated convict wall
The Arthur Wall is a hollow brick wall on the lawns, built by convict labour in 1829. Heat was once pumped through it to keep exotic plants alive during Hobart's frosts.
Food, shop and getting there
A restaurant, a café kiosk and the Botanical Shop are on the grounds. The restaurant foyer has a view over the river. Ice creams and souvenirs are also sold.
There is ample parking, and buses stop at the entrance. Visitors can also walk or ride along the bike track, or through Soldiers Memorial in fine weather.
Access
The front gates have disabled parking bays, and the entrance and restroom are wheelchair accessible. Some paths are wheelchair accessible, but the Japanese Garden may not be accessible throughout, so check the website before planning around it.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
No. Admission to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is free.
How long do you need?
Allow a couple of hours at least to see the main areas at a relaxed pace.
How do I get there from the city centre?
It is around a 30 to 40 minute walk from Hobart CBD. You can also take a bus from the Elizabeth Street interchange for part of the journey, and buses stop at the entrance.
Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
The front gates have disabled parking bays, and the entrance and restroom are wheelchair accessible. Some paths are accessible, but the Japanese Garden may not be fully accessible.
Are the Japanese Garden and conservatory always open?
Not always. Parts of the grounds have been closed at times, including for events and renovation, so check the website before your visit.
