
Coal Mines Historic Site
Situated on the Tasman Peninsula near Saltwater River, the Coal Mines Historic Site was Tasmania’s first operational mine. It also served as a place of punishment for the ‘worst class’ of convicts, as part of the system of convict discipline and punishment. During its busiest years almost 600 prisoners with their jailers and their families lived and worked at the Mines. Today, the Coal Mines Historic Site offers visitors the chance to discover among the uncrowded ruins and scenic vistas a deeper understanding of Tasmania’s convict heritage. Nestled amid quiet bushland around 25 minutes drive from Port Arthur, the ruins of the Main Settlement offer a small glimpse into the lives of the men once incarcerated at this notorious punishment station. While the underground workings are no longer accessible, you can visit the picturesque ruins of houses, barracks, offices and punishment cells, or take a walk through the surrounding bushland on one of the many well-maintained walking tracks. Along with the Port Arthur Historic Site, the Coal Mines Historic Site is included in the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage property. Complimentary Coal Mines Visitor Guides are available from the Port Arthur Historic Site Visitor Centre, or can be downloaded from the Coal Mines website.






