Explore
Surrounding Area
Explore Stanley
The Nut & Chairlift
Chairlift, Ph 6458 1482.
The towering “Nut,” the solidified core of an ancient volcano, defines the historic town nestled at its base. Take the steep hike to the top or opt for a more leisurely ride on the chairlift, operating daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. (hours may vary with weather and season). Once at the summit, a scenic 45-minute walk around the top offers stunning views in every direction. Stop by Nut Rock Café & Souvenirs to enjoy a Tasmanian ice cream or try their famous house-made Scallop Pie – a true Tasmanian delicacy on the all-day menu.
Highfield House
Green Hills Road, Stanley Ph 6458 1100
The original headquarters of the Van Diemans Land Company, you may have already spotted Highfield House perched atop the Green Hills to the North. Take a self-guided tour or, as a group, be guided by a staff member in period costume. You can even don the costumes yourself for a studio photo. Highfield opens daily 9:30am – 4:30pm, September to May, weekdays only June to August.
Penguins
Little penguins come ashore around Stanley at dark. Penguins can be seen from the viewing platform at Godfrey’s beach. The best time of the year is between September and March. Fewer numbers can be seen over the winter months. Red cellophane to cover your bright light on your torch/mobile phone can be picked up from Reception at the Stanley Hotel. Please respect our little penguins, they are very sensitive to bright lights, flash and noise.
Joe Lyons' Cottage
14 Alexander Terrace, Ph 6458 2091
Open 10.00am – 4.00pm 1st September – 31st May
The 1879 birthplace of Tasmania’s only Australian Prime minister, Joe Lyons Cottage is furnished in keeping with the Lyons’ era and houses a large collection of photographs from his life and times.). Entry by gold coin donation.
Stanley Discovery Museum
Church Street, Ph 6458 2091
UMAT
Next door to St Paul’s Anglican Church (c.1888), this volunteer run museum displays a diverse range of memorabilia, historical and general information about the area as wel as genealogical records available for those who have ancestors from Stanley to peruse
Golf
32 Marine Esplanade, Ph 6458 1395
Have a relaxing game of golf at Stanley’s 9-hole course. Clubs are available for hire for a minimal fee. The course is links-style with fairway undulations, set in hind-dunes about ten metres back from the water. The green and fairways are well watered and are in great condition. The course is short, par 66 (33-33) and ACR: 64 but with varying wind conditions the course is always challenging even for those who pay regularly.
40 South Charters
Take a Seal Cruise from the Stanley wharf and customised sea an fishing tours around the islands near to Stanley. All weather dependent. Phone Duncan on 0429 352 004 or find them on facebook 40 South Charters
Stanley's Historic Cemetery
A stroll through the picturesque, historic cemetery situated below the Nut near Godfrey’s Beach, provides a somewhat sad, but fascinating glimpse into the history of our township.
Beaches
Godfreys Beach (“top beach” to the locals) on the north side of the Nut has a fantastic playground and BBQ facilities. The beach itself is popular for swimming and (if you’re lucky) surfing, although heed the warnings about the strong currents and submerged rocks. Tatlows Beach (“bottom beach”) is more sheltered for the littlies to take a dip and a good choice if a long stroll is needed to blow the cobwebs away.
Playgrounds
There are playgrounds at both of Stanley’s beaches. If you head north, along Church Street, you’ll get to Godfreys beach which has swings, slide and climbing frame and a big grassy area. There are new toilet and shower facilities and a sheltered BBQ and picnic area. If you head south, along Wharf Road, past the cabin park, you’ll find Tatlows Beach with swings and slide and a toilet block.
Stanley Heritage Walk
Explore the historic village of Stanley and uncover its past in the footsteps of Stanley- born writer and artist Meg Eldridge. The walk is self-guided and explores the history, architecture and culture of this diverse village, enhanced with QR code technology. Information can also be found at www.stanleyheritagewalk.com.au and there is a visitors guide and map available from Reception or the Stanley Visitor Information Centre.
Shopping
Boutique and speciality shops and galleries can be found dotted along Church Street.
Cow & Calf Gallery
Church Street, Ph 0439 251 151
The Cow and Calf Gallery showcases fine Tasmanian art and craft. Wilderness photography is a particular feature. Open daily from 9:00-5:00
Gear Up Stanley
Hire an e-bike and discover Stanley’s historic streets, bike track and surrounds by bike. They can organise a picnic to take with you if you like. They also hire stand up paddle boards. Phone 0400 766 536 or find them on facebook Gear Up Stanley