Historic Homestead Tour on Norfolk Island: A Living Journey through Time and Nature
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the walk is gentle with minimal elevation change
Overview
Explore Norfolk Island’s rich colonial heritage and stunning gardens on the Historic Homestead Tour. A two-hour journey into the island's unique settler history, perfect for all ages and nature lovers.
Historic Homestead Tour
For All Ages • 2 hours • Come Explore Our Beautiful Gardens, Homestead & Village
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Wataweih – welcome - to Norfolk Island's Pitcairn Settlers Village
Duration
2.5 hours
About
When 194 people came ashore on Norfolk Island on the June 8 in 1856 they were relocating from remote Pitcairn Island, approximately 6,000kms away. Their forefathers were the mutineers of ‘HMAV Bounty’ fame and foremothers the Polynesian women who travelled with them. Now they were to begin a new life on Norfolk Island, a story that is uniquely told on the Pitcairn Settlers Village tour.
More info
This tour takes you to one of the last intact 13 acre Pitcairn Settler land grants that has been continuously owned by the same family. It was the home of Fletcher Christian’s great-grand daughter Emily, and her husband George Bailey and contains many original features including the 1879 homestead, oldest working blacksmiths forge in the Pacific, dairy, outbuildings and extensive gardens. The story of the settlement of the Pitcairn Islanders on Norfolk is one of resourcefulness, hard work, productivity and dedication to improving their lives and those of their children – the first generation of today’s Norfolk Islanders
The Pitcairn Settlers Village tour offers a unique insight into their lives from 1856 with a focus on the remarkable Bailey family. Tours run every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 9.30am and 1.30pm. Group enquiries for bookings over 16 on additional days are welcomed via email
We are located off Queen Elizabeth Drive behind the Queen Victoria Gardens, Hilli Restaurant and Cyclorama.
What to bring
Hat & sunglasses Camera
Adventure Tips
Bring water and sun protection
Norfolk Island's subtropical climate can be sunny and warm, so stay hydrated and wear a hat and sunscreen.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The terrain includes garden paths and grassy areas that require stable footwear for comfort.
Plan for a mid-morning or afternoon visit
Tours are usually best enjoyed outside the midday heat to maximize comfort and photography opportunities.
Respect protected areas
Stay on the designated paths to help preserve the historical structures and delicate gardens.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Norfolk Island Green Parrot (Endemic and endangered)
- Fantail birds commonly spotted fluttering around the gardens
History
Norfolk Island was settled in the late 18th century, initially as a penal colony and later populated by descendants of the Pitcairn Islanders, influencing the local culture and heritage.
Conservation
Efforts on Norfolk Island focus on preserving native species and protecting historic sites, with sustainable tourism practices encouraged to maintain this delicate island ecosystem.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Kingston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating garden paths and homestead grounds comfortably.
Hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun during outdoor exploration in the subtropical climate.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour, important for health and comfort.
Light rain jacket
Spring showers can occur, so a waterproof layer may be useful.
spring specific