Runnymede - National Trust Tasmania — Attraction in Hobart

Disappointing. Advertised as being open, arrived around 1pm and there was an "open" sign at the front door. Another sign on the door indicated to ring the door bell and please wait a few minutes. Waited 5 to 10 minutes and no response. Went for a walk in the garden, came back to front door to see a sign saying the place was now closed and would re-open at 2:30pm. Finally found details hidden on the website indicating a need to book for tours of the house (contradicting other information on the website implying guided tours were optional). Wasted the journey travelling here. Gardens were ok but could do with some work to bring it up to a quality standard befitting what looks to be a grand house. Though, the tours were $20 so i don't know if the entrance fee is worth it. However it is worthwhile keeping these houses open for the public and to see a tough of history. I prefer to walk these houses at my own pace...

As Chairman of the National Trust I want to encourage you to experience the rich history and architecture of Runnymede. Originally constructed in the mid 1830s by Robert Pitcairn who was a leading advocate in Hobart and who's bust graces the entry to the Supreme Court to this day. It then became the home of the Nixon family, in the 1850s, Nixon being the first Anglican Bishop in Tasmania. Subsequently it became the base for the Bayley family - late 19th Century whalers. Today it provides a wide range of maritime themes related to whaling and through the Trust's relationship with the Sea Shepherd organisation a small museum to today's protectors of these...

Runnymede is run by a lovely group of volunteers. An historic house with charm, original furnishings and plenty of history to learn about not only the time period the house was built and used, but the families living there. Interesting information on the whaling industry too. I loved the original wall paper and my favourite part was the children's height measurements marked in a cupboard, from the late 19th century. Never painted over! I was welcomed in by a bright smile and offered tea at the end. My only regret is that I didn't get to see the garden in full bloom, it looks as though it would be spectacular. I will be...