A vintage steamship is docked on a calm river, surrounded by sailboats. Trees, hills, and mountains are visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky, all reflected in the still water.

The small towns of Franklin and Port Huon are less than an easy hour south of Hobart.

Franklin

Franklin is a short 10-minute drive south of Huonville. Nestled on the banks of the Huon River this picturesque town, the first in the Huon, is rich in both scenery and history.

In 1838 Jane, Lady Franklin (wife of the Tasmanian Governor), purchased land on the Huon River and created “The Settlement”. Her plan was to assist settlers, who she deemed to be of good character, by leasing them land. Until the 1930s, Franklin was the main municipal centre and a bustling river port, known for its quality traders, shipbuilding, farming, fruit growing and dried apple production. 

Today you can tour the town and riverfront using ‘The Franklin Walk’ booklet as your guide; visit the Tasmanian Wooden Boat Centre, St John’s open air and Franks indoor museums, visit the Palais Theatre and its ‘Collective’ shop Friday to Sunday (not open in winter), enjoy a meal or beverage at one of Franklin’s cafes and hotels, take a cruise on the river and experience the beautiful Franklin Forest Walk.

Three men stand indoors in front of British flags. The man in the middle holds a certificate and small box, smiling, while the other two men stand on either side, also smiling. A black curtain and steps are in the background.

Port Huon

Just another 5 minutes drive alongside the Huon River you will find Port Huon, a small community with big, sweeping views of the Huon River, Bruny Island, D’Entrecasteaux Channel and, the Hartz Mountains.

Port Huon was once a busy trading port and the destination for international apple boats that transported and exported the region’s famous apples to the world. The original port remains and now is a hive of activity used by salmon grower Huon Aquaculture’s boats which are not open to the public but make for a grand picture when docked.

Three men stand side by side indoors in front of flags. The man in the center holds a certificate and a small wooden box, smiling, while the two others stand on either side, also smiling.

Franklin & Port Huon Foreshore

Franklin has a large river foreshore area with plenty of space and offers stunning photo opportunities of the Huon River and the surrounding vistas and landscapes. Franklin always puts on a show – especially at sunrise and sunset, so make sure you have your cameras ready!

  • BBQ (electric) with BBQ shelter, seating, picnic tables.
  • Playground
  • Boat Ramp
  • Public Toilets with disabled access
  • RV Dump Point
  • Walking Track along the riverbank
  • Franklin Oval

At Port Huon just beside the docks, you will find Shipwrights Point Regatta Point and playground which includes an RV Dump point.

A person in a red jacket stands in front of a University of Tasmania backdrop, smiling and holding a smartphone displaying an app with landscape images.
A group of seven people, five holding awards, pose indoors in a wooden-floored venue. They are dressed in business and casual attire. A table is partially visible in the background.
Franklin, Huon River Foreshore
Photo: Naomie Clark-Port

Things to see and do near Franklin and Port Huon

  • Visit the Wooden Boat Centre
  • Take a kayaking tour along the Huon River from Franklin with Esperance Adventures.
  • Visit the quirky Shop @ Franklin – loaded with retro and vintage pieces.
  • Grab a great pub meal at The Moorings at Lady Jane Franklin
  • Drop-in for a meal at the Kermandie Hotel at Port Huon.