Have you seen the film The Light Between Oceans? Some of it is filmed in the township of Stanley and in Highfield House, the historic homestead that overlooks the town. Originally built for the wealthy proprietors of Van Diemen’s Land (VDL) Company, the homestead was completed in 1834. VDL traded sheep so the property is surrounded by pastures. Unfortunately, VDL failed as the land isn’t suited to sheep grazing. Fortunately, this means that you can visit this beautifully preserved homestead.
Highfield House is extraordinarily picturesque. Don’t like reading information panels? Take your time admiring the wallpapers, carpets, stonework and furniture. Head outside and there’s even more to take in. The gardens are beautiful. We visited in winter and were surprised by just how colourful the gardens were. Look beyond the house and you’ll see gorgeous views of Stanley and The Nut. Make sure that you have a look at the outbuildings too – they are stunning.
There’s more to Highfield House than just external beauty. The property is of historical importance and is a reminder of a much harder time. You can read about the struggles of VDL and also the hardships caused by the company. The Tasmanian Tiger, which is now extinct, quite liked sheep so VDL participated in its eradication. The company also treated Aboriginal Tasmanians cruelly. Despite the ironic justice, you’ll find some of the company’s own losses confronting. Make sure that you have a look at the master bedroom upstairs and the small remembrance garden outside.
What to Bring
The house can be a bit cold in winter so rug up. Wear sensible shoes and remember your camera. It really is a photogenic house! There is a gift shop on site but no café. Bring a picnic to eat on the lawns (in summer) or take a short drive to the township of Stanley for a meal.
Getting There
Stanley is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Launceston or about a five-hour drive from Hobart. There are two ways of getting to Highfield House. Either drive up the hill from Godfreys Beach via Greenhills Road or take an earlier turn up Dovecote Road. I recommend doing the loop, in either direction. Make sure that you stop at all the lookouts on the way. There are three and you’ll love the different views of The Nut and Stanley. When you arrive, you’ll find plenty of parking at Highfield Historic House.
Cost
Highfield House is open from 10am – 4:45pm daily. Make sure that you check opening hours on public holidays. You’ll need to set aside about an hour to explore the house and grounds (more if you like to read every single interpretation panel!). You’ll pay $12 per adult with discounts for children and families. The property has EFTPOS facilities. The tours are self-guided, which is rather lovely as you can just pause and take in the views, both inside and outside the house. Enjoy!
Want to explore the region? Read about my travels in Tasmania’s north west. Travelling further afield? I’ve traversed the west coast, south, east coast, north, midlands and central highlands and can highly recommend several places to visit in each area.