Buckland: Church, History and Old Convict Road

Buckland: local history and architecture

Buckland combines a long local history with clearly distinguishable historic traces: a church modelled on one in Sussex, a sandstone building and a road leading to ruins. The area was first settled in 1820 and was originally known as Prosser Plains. This gives visitors two clear points of reference for its local history: the start of settlement and an earlier name for Buckland. Those who enjoy exploring a place’s history through its names and buildings can consider both side by side here, before the Old Convict Road offers another perspective.

Buckland Church and its model

Buckland Church was completed in 1846 and is a replica of the parish church in Cookham Dean, Sussex. It is regarded as the most authentic example of early medieval English church architecture in Tasmania. Two specific local connections come together in this building: it stands in Buckland, and its architectural model is in Sussex. For travellers interested in church architecture, this connection is noteworthy: the church tells a story not only of the year it was completed, but also of how an English model was taken up in Tasmanian architecture.

Buckland Inn, built from sandstone

Another architectural feature is Buckland Inn. It was built in 1841 from locally hand-hewn sandstone, five years before Buckland Church was completed. While the church’s special connection lies in its model in Sussex, the inn’s building material is clearly identified: local sandstone, hewn by hand. The two dates make a simple comparison in time possible; the named features also raise two different questions about Buckland’s architectural history. You can explore the area through the origins of an architectural model or through the stone used to build a historic building.

Old Convict Road and the Probation Station

Old Convict Road brings convict labour into focus through a walking track. It starts in Orford and reaches the ruins of the Probation Station in Buckland at the end of the route. The track is flat and easily accessible, and showcases examples of convicts’ handiwork and their architectural ingenuity. Its focus is therefore different from that of the church and inn: rather than a church model or building material, it is about the labour and architectural solutions associated with the route.

A different focus: Buckland Playground

Buckland Playground is right next to Buckland Inn and provides space for dogs and children to run around. This adds another possible focus for a visit alongside the historic buildings and the track: outdoor activity. If you are planning a trip with children or a dog, this information can help you choose possible activities in the area, without replacing the architecture-related attractions. As facilities can change, check the current status of the playground before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Coles Bay, Orford, Bronte Park, Austins Ferry, Port Arthur, Nubeena, Port Latta, Huonville

For the broader travel overview: Tasmania.