Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village

The Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village has been owned by the same family since 1824. It has more than 20 buildings to explore including a convict-built Gothic chapel, Dutch barns, a chicken house and blacksmith shop. The 10 acre (four hectare) garden has roses, ornamental fruits and 180 year old trees from all over the world.
The skills and work of convicted men and women, assigned to work at the farm allowed it to thrive and prosper. Women were assigned to domestics chores in the houses, while men were put to work in the fields. Some convicts were also skilled tradesmen like wheelwrights and blacksmiths. Workers were not paid; they were fed, clothed, housed, and could be punished. 
Today, Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village is still a working farm, with crops including vegetables and poppies. Brickendon is also home to a number of animals ranging from cows, sheep and horses to chickens, goats and a pig named Flora.
Brickendon also rents cottages for guests looking for a hotel alternative. Located in the Heritage Gardens, the historic colonial style cottages offer antique furnishings with modern conveniences. Farm cottages offer views of the farm and are often visited by friendly, wandering poultry.

Practical Info

Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village is located on the outskirts of Longford, about a 30 minute drive from Launceston and one hour from Devonport. Brickendon is open year round, Tuesday through Sunday. October to mid-May, hours are 9:30am to 5pm. Mid-May through September, Brickendon is open 9:30am to 4pm. Farm animal feeding begins daily at 10:15am.