If you are visiting Hobart, the capital and largest city of Tasmania, Australia, you might want to check out Kelly’s Steps, a historic and charming landmark that connects the suburb of Battery Point to Salamanca Place.
Kelly’s Steps are a set of sandstone steps that were built by James Kelly, an early Australian explorer and whaler, in 1839.
The steps offer a glimpse into the city’s colonial and maritime past, as well as a scenic and convenient way to explore two of the most popular and picturesque areas in Hobart.
In this blog post, I will share with you some of the history, features, and attractions of Kelly’s Steps, as well as some tips and information on how to visit them.
The history of Kelly’s Steps
Kelly’s Steps were named after James Kelly, who was born in Parramatta, New South Wales, in 1791. He became a sailor and a whaler, and moved to Hobart in 1812.
He was one of the first Europeans to circumnavigate Tasmania, and he also explored parts of the mainland and New Zealand.
He was known as a daring and adventurous seaman, and he earned the nickname “Kelly the Circumnavigator”.
In 1839, Kelly decided to build a set of steps that would link his home and warehouse in Battery Point to the wharfs and warehouses in Salamanca Place.
At that time, Battery Point was on a cliff that overlooked the Sullivans Cove, where the ships docked and traded.
The steps were cut into the stone of the cliffs, using the same sandstone that was used to build the buildings in Salamanca Place.
The steps were a convenient and practical way for Kelly and his fellow merchants and sailors to access the port and the market.
Kelly’s Steps are one of the oldest and most historic structures in Hobart, and they reflect the city’s heritage and culture. They are also a testament to Kelly’s vision and contribution to the development of Hobart and Tasmania.
The features and attractions of Kelly’s Steps
Kelly’s Steps are located at the end of Kelly Street in Battery Point, and they lead to Kelly’s Lane in Salamanca Place. The steps are made of sandstone blocks, and they have a total of 48 steps.
The steps are narrow and steep, and they have a metal handrail on one side. The steps are surrounded by historic buildings, such as the Henry Jones Art Hotel, the IXL Jam Factory, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.
Kelly’s Steps are a popular and charming attraction for tourists and locals alike, as they offer a unique and authentic way to experience Hobart.
You can walk up or down the steps, and enjoy the views of the harbour and the mountains.
You can also explore the nearby areas, such as Battery Point and Salamanca Place, which are full of cafes, restaurants, shops, galleries, and markets. You can also learn more about the history, stories, and achievements of Kelly and his contemporaries, as well as the challenges and dangers they faced.
How to visit Kelly’s Steps
Kelly’s Steps are open to the public every day, and they are free to access.You can easily reach the steps by public transport, car, bike, or foot, as they are close to the city centre and the Salamanca Market.
You can also join a guided tour, such as the Grand Hobart Walking Tour, which runs daily at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm, and lasts for about two hours.
The tour will take you to Kelly’s Steps, as well as other attractions and landmarks in Hobart.
You can spend as much time as you like at Kelly’s Steps, but I recommend at least 15 minutes to walk up or down the steps, and to admire the scenery and the architecture.
You can also take some photos and videos of the steps, as they are very photogenic and Instagram-worthy.
However, please be careful and respectful when using the steps, as they are old and fragile, and they are also used by the residents and the workers in the area.
Why you should visit Kelly’s Steps
Kelly’s Steps are a historic and charming landmark in Hobart, and they are a great way to discover the city and its attractions.
You will not only see the sights, but also learn about the history, culture, and nature of Hobart and Tasmania. You will also have the opportunity to interact with the locals and the visitors, and experience the city’s vibe and charm.
Kelly’s Steps are more than just steps, they are a destination.
I hope this blog post has given you an overview of what Kelly’s Steps are, and how to visit them. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at Kelly’s Steps.