Kelly's Steps Hobart
Historic limestone steps carved in the 1800s, connecting Salamanca Place to the charming Battery Point suburb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Kelly's Steps Hobart
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic limestone steps carved in the 1800s, connecting Salamanca Place to the charming Battery Point suburb.
"These lovely steps are named after James Kelly an early Australian explorer and whaler, built out of the lime stone cliff in the early 1800's."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Multiple sets of steps! Essential for exploring Battery Point afterward.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days or if you're heading up to explore Battery Point.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Stone Steps
Connecting Salamanca Place and Battery Point
Walk in the footsteps of history on these 1800s-carved limestone steps, a vital link between Hobart's vibrant Salamanca Market and charming Battery Point.
Gateway to Battery Point
Top of Kelly's Steps
Ascend to Battery Point, a picturesque historic suburb with quaint shops, cafes, and beautiful residences. A perfect starting point for a self-guided tour.
Architectural Landmark
Salamanca Place
Appreciate the ingenuity of these steps, cut into the cliffside in 1839, serving as a functional and historical architectural feature of Hobart.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Connect to History
Comfortable Footwear is Key
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Insider Tips
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Hobart recommendations
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Multiple sets of steps! Essential for exploring Battery Point afterward.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days or if you're heading up to explore Battery Point.
📸 Photo Opportunity
Great spot for pictures, capturing history and the connection between two key Hobart areas.
🚶♀️ Connect to Battery Point
These steps are the perfect way to access the historic and charming suburb of Battery Point.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Multiple sets of steps! Essential for exploring Battery Point afterward.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days or if you're heading up to explore Battery Point.
📸 Photo Opportunity
Great spot for pictures, capturing history and the connection between two key Hobart areas.
🚶♀️ Connect to Battery Point
These steps are the perfect way to access the historic and charming suburb of Battery Point.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kelly's Steps are appreciated as a historic and functional link between Salamanca Place and Battery Point, offering a glimpse into Hobart's past. While some find them a bit underwhelming on their own, their value as a connector to the charming Battery Point suburb is widely recognized. Visitors enjoy the historical significance and the ease of access they provide.
"These historic steps lead you up to the lovely residences above Salamanca place. There are 3 set of 15 steps so not difficult to climb. They are well maintained and a popular way to reach to Battersea Park area."
G Mac
"These lovely steps are named after James Kelly an early Australian explorer and whaler, built out of the lime stone cliff in the early 1800's, was the starting point of our self guided tour of battery point which is so worth doing."
V H
"How great surprise was it! It was our first day at Hobart and we ended up our and about until the check-in time. After the farm gate market we stopped at Kelly steps. Amazing experience, we loved it! Definitly reccomend going and taking a lot of pictures, don't forget to bring water e dress confortable as there is quite a few stairs to face."
Zilma Ribeiro
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kelly's Steps are conveniently located between Salamanca Place and Battery Point in Hobart. If you're visiting Salamanca Market, they are easily accessible from there. Many visitors find them after exploring the market.
Parking is available in the Salamanca Place area, though it can be busy, especially on market days. Consider public transport or walking if you're staying nearby.
Yes, Kelly's Steps are within walking distance from the Hobart CBD, offering a pleasant stroll along the waterfront before you ascend. It's a good way to see more of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kelly's Steps are a public thoroughfare and do not require an entrance ticket. Access is free for everyone.
Kelly's Steps are accessible 24/7 as they are an outdoor public pathway. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better views.
Kelly's Steps consist of multiple sets of 15 steps, totaling around 45 steps. They are generally considered easy to climb for most people, but comfortable footwear is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kelly's Steps themselves are an architectural and historical landmark, carved from limestone in the 1800s. Their primary appeal is their historical significance and their function as a connector to Battery Point.
Named after James Kelly, an early Australian explorer and whaler, these steps were cut into the limestone cliff in the early 1800s to connect Battery Point with Salamanca Place.
After climbing Kelly's Steps, you can explore the charming historic suburb of Battery Point, known for its quaint shops, cafes, and beautiful residences. It's a great area for a leisurely walk.
Yes, children can climb Kelly's Steps, but adult supervision is recommended. The steps are not overly steep, but it's good to ensure they have appropriate footwear.
There are no specific facilities directly at Kelly's Steps, as it's a pathway. However, you'll find amenities like restrooms, cafes, and shops in the nearby Salamanca Place and Battery Point areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic limestone texture of the steps themselves, or frame shots looking up towards Battery Point or down towards Salamanca Place. The surrounding architecture also offers great photographic opportunities.
Daylight hours offer the best natural light for photography. Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the top, the charming streets of Battery Point provide a lovely area for a family walk, with plenty of interesting sights and perhaps a treat from a local cafe. Remember to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as exploring Battery Point can involve a fair bit of walking.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
Combine your visit with a self-guided tour of Battery Point to delve deeper into the architectural heritage. The steps themselves are a testament to the practical engineering of the 1800s, and understanding their purpose provides a richer appreciation of Hobart's urban layout.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Purpose of Kelly's Steps
Today, Kelly's Steps continue to fulfill their original function, acting as a popular pedestrian pathway. They are not just a functional connector but also a tangible piece of Hobart's heritage. Visitors often remark on the impressive nature of seeing how these steps were cut into the stone nearly 200 years ago, a feat of engineering for its era. The steps offer a unique opportunity to walk through history and appreciate the foundational development of Hobart.
Exploring Battery Point: A Step Above
Visitors can discover a variety of independent boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes tucked away in Battery Point. The suburb is perfect for a self-guided walking tour, allowing you to admire the beautiful residences and soak in the atmosphere. Many travelers recommend taking your time here, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a light meal, to truly appreciate the unique character of this historic Hobart neighborhood. The connection provided by Kelly's Steps makes Battery Point easily accessible and a must-visit after experiencing Salamanca Market.
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