Kelly's Steps

Kelly’s Steps are a historic sandstone staircase at 5 Kelly St, linking Salamanca Place with Battery Point in Hobart. Built by James Kelly in 1839, the steps climb through the cliff between the waterfront and the older streets above. There are three short flights of 15 steps, so they make an easy route uphill as well as a brief stop to look at the stonework. From the top, continue through Battery Point’s narrow streets and old houses; the steps are best seen as part of a walk, not as a standalone attraction.

A staircase between two parts of Hobart

Kelly’s Steps connect Salamanca Place with Battery Point, where streets sit above the waterfront. James Kelly built the stone staircase in 1839, cutting it into the cliff. Its practical purpose is still clear: the steps give walkers a direct route between the two areas.

The climb is made up of three flights of 15 steps. From Salamanca Place, the route brings you up to Battery Point’s residential streets. The staircase is an easy addition to a walk around the area, though it has little to see beyond the steps themselves.

Continue into Battery Point

At the top, carry on through Battery Point to see its narrow streets and old houses. Kelly’s Steps can be the starting point for a self-guided walk through the neighbourhood, or a useful link after exploring Salamanca Place.

A signboard provides historical context, but on-site explanation may be limited. Read it before setting off if you want to know more about the staircase. The steps are most rewarding when treated as part of the route between the waterfront and Battery Point, rather than a destination requiring a separate visit.