Franklin House

Place TAS

1838 convict-built home and gardens that became one of the Colony's leading private schools.

Just minutes’ drive from Launceston CBD, Franklin House is the city’s only house museum. Built for successful businessman, Britton Jones, himself an ex-convict, this rare colonial building went on to accommodate one of the Colony’s leading private schools which operated from 1842 until 1866.

In 1960, it became the birthplace of the National Trust in Tasmania, which was formed to save it.

Relax under a 180-year-old oak tree, wander through the Victorian Kitchen Garden, send the children in search of Patrick’s Pails and explore this beautiful home on a self-guided tour.

Franklin House is also available for hire for private events such as weddings or corporate events; and there are a variety of special events throughout the year including our Christmas Carols and Cake event. School tours are also offered (see links below).

 

Address:

413 Hobart Road Youngtown 7249 TAS

Open:

National Trust properties throughout Tasmania are open Saturdays and Sundays from 10am – 4pm. However we encourage all visitors to either contact the property or call 6344 6233 prior to visiting, as hours may change due to the changing nature of requirements as a result of the impact of COVID-19. Stay safe. 

Closed:

Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day & Good Friday

Phone:
General enquiries: (03) 6344 7824
Email:
franklin@nationaltrusttas.org.au
Website:
https://nationaltrusttas.rezdy.com/
Entry Fees:

Franklin House is available for self-guided tours: $10 adults | $8 concession, senior, student | $5 child aged 7-16 yrs | National Trust members & children 6 yrs and under FREE

What we offer:

“An amazing historical house - take a trip back in time as you walk through this beautiful character filled house…"

One of many 5 star TripAdvisor reviews

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Tours & Experiences

Explore the house and gardens with a self guided tour, or come along to a special event.

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School Tours

School Tours

This guided tour helps students learn about the cultural traditions of the time.

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Private Functions

Private Functions

Franklin House is also available for private events.
From celebrations to group afternoon teas in our elegant gardens, we will ensure that your event is one to remember.
Enquiries to: franklin@nationaltrusttas.org.au

Weddings

Weddings

Franklin House makes an elegant and memorable venue for your wedding.
Enquiries to: franklin@nationaltrusttas.org.au

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Three Favourite Things

Charles II travelling trunk
This decorated horse hide trunk is a memento of the time Prince Charles was given safe refuge from Oliver Cromwell’s men by the de Carteret family of Jersey. It was donated to Franklin House by Mr Geoff Lempriere of Hobart, a descendant of the Jersey family.

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Three Favourite Things

Concave Welsh bacon cupboard (c 1700)
Sides of bacon were hung from metal hooks to cure. The cupboard has an iron lock within an oak casing at the rear and has two small doors beneath the seat. The cupboard is a gift from Mr John Dunn, Melbourne.

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Three Favourite Things

Schoolroom – Mr Hawkes’ Academy
In 1842, Mr and Mrs Hawkes from Kent arrived in Van Diemans Land and within months had opened a Classical and Commercial (boarding) School, popularly known as Mr Hawkes’ Academy. The schoolroom retains its original flooring, and has been furnished by the National Trust with 19th century pine school desks and benches.

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