The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) is a 630-acre (255-hectare) UNESCO World Heritage Site on Norfolk Island’s southern coastal plains. Explore a series of buildings built during the British Empire’s colonial expansion between 1788 and 1855 and learn about the history and hardship of large-scale convict transportation. Go on a guided tour, follow the walking trails or check out the heritage buildings that are open to the public and get a closer look at Norfolk Island’s colonial beginnings.
A good place to begin your visit to KAVHA is the Research and Information Centre, which is housed in one of the restored Georgian buildings on Quality Row. Learn about the site, which is one of the most significant penal sites established by the British Empire in Australia in the 18th and 19th centuries. Check out maps, journals and convict records and pick up brochures.
There are four museums located within heritage buildings in the KAVHA. Next door to the Research and Information Centre you’ll find the 10 Quality Row House Museum. This open house has been carefully restored to its 1844 grandeur. Learn the fascinating story of the Pitcairn Mutineers at the Pier Store Museum or learn about the British Empire’s maritime heritage at the Sirius Museum. Enter the All Saints Church to find archaeological treasures at the Commissariat Store Museum.
Wander around the grassy hillsides that front the island’s southern seashore and imagine life as a convict. Look up at the fortress-like walls of the Quality Row Military Precinct and the imposing Government House. You’ll see the ruins of two convict jails, a blacksmith’s shop and a human-powered crankmill. Guided tours give a closer insight into the hellish conditions that were endured in this convict settlement. Walk up Flagstaff Hill for a panoramic overlook of the area. This spot is also fantastic for viewing sunsets.
The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area stretches along Norfolk Island’s southern coastal plains. The cost of admission gives you access to the four museums on the site. Car tours and walking tours are available. There is free parking on site. Check KAVHA’s official website for opening times.