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Coal Mines Historic Site, Tasmania - A Quiet Walk Through Convict History
- Oct 16, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Coal Mines Historic Site, Tasmania - A Quiet Walk Through Convict History
Set on the rugged Tasman Peninsula, the Coal Mines Historic Site is one of Tasmania’s most haunting and thought-provoking historic places. Surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery, bushland and the deep blue waters of Ironstone Bay, this peaceful walking site hides a dark past shaped by hard labour, isolation and punishment.
Today, more than 25 substantial ruins lie scattered across 214 hectares, inviting visitors to slow down, wander, and uncover the stories of the convicts who once lived and worked here.
From Harsh Punishment to Peaceful Ruins
What is now a tranquil landscape was once a place of relentless toil. Established in 1833, the Coal Mines became Tasmania’s first operational coal mine and one of the most severe punishment sites in the convict system.
The “worst class” of convicts from Port Arthur were sent here to endure brutal working conditions under ruthless overseers. The mine operated for around 40 years, later becoming part of the government’s probation system in the early 1840s. Coal extracted here supplied the Port Arthur settlement, and at its peak, the site housed up to 600 convicts.
Exploring the Ruins Today
Walking through the site now is a deeply reflective experience. Subtle interpretation signs are placed thoughtfully among the ruins, encouraging slow discovery rather than rushed sightseeing.
You’ll encounter the remains of:
Underground punishment cells
Barracks and warders’ quarters
Workshops and apartments
The mine shaft and air shafts
A chapel overlooking the bay
The ruins are set against a beautiful coastal backdrop, creating a striking contrast between natural beauty and the site’s harsh history.
The Coal Mines Historic Site Walk – What to Expect
Distance: 2 kilometres (circuit) - Time: Around 2 hours - Grade: 2
The Coal Mines Historic Site Walk is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks.
The walk begins and ends at the Main Settlement Area, following a gentle circuit that takes you past the most significant ruins and down to the shoreline at Plunkett Point.
The paths are easy to follow, making this walk accessible while still rich in detail. Along the way, you’ll see the remains of the main mine shaft, underground cells, and scattered stone buildings that once formed a tightly controlled convict compound.
One of the most confronting stops is the Prisoner Barracks ruin. Originally two large stone buildings, the barracks housed up to 170 convicts. Beneath them lie 16 solitary punishment cells, built from sandstone blocks — dark, soundproof and poorly ventilated — designed to break both body and spirit.
Facilities and Practical Information
Plenty of parking available
Toilets located near the car park
Allow time to read the interpretation signs — they add depth to the experience
Getting to the Coal Mines Historic Site
From Port Arthur, follow the Arthur Highway, which becomes Nubeena Road. Continue to Nubeena, then follow the B37. At Premaydena, turn onto C341 and continue for approximately 13 kilometres. The final 400 metres is unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles.
Why Visit the Coal Mines Historic Site?
The Coal Mines Historic Site is more than a walk — it’s a journey into Tasmania’s convict past, set within a landscape of remarkable natural beauty. The contrast between the peaceful surroundings and the brutal history makes this one of the most memorable and moving historic walks in Tasmania.
If you’re exploring the Tasman Peninsula and want to visit somewhere that combines history, scenery and reflection, the Coal Mines Historic Site should not be missed.
More to Explore on the Tasman Peninsula
Tasman Arch, Pirates Bay, Fortescue Bay, Devil's Kitchen, Tessellated Pavement, Remarkable Cave, The Blowhole, Crescent Bay, Fossil Bay Lookout, Bivouac Bay, Cape Pillar, Cape Hauy and Cape Raoul
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