Set on the Huon River, Franklin mixes charming historic buildings with thriving maritime traditions.
The oldest town in the Huon Valley, Franklin is home to the Wooden Boat Centre, a boat-building school dedicated to preserving the traditional craft of wooden boat building. Take a tour, or book ahead to construct your own craft – a kayak, a dinghy, or perhaps a set of oars.
The Huon Valley’s rich apple-growing heritage lives on in nearby cideries and roadside fruit stands selling fresh local apples and pears.
In town, the Palais Theatre is a lovely example of Federation-style architecture and hosts a range of events, including the Franklin Market, held on the fourth Sunday of each month, and screenings of classic movies on the first Sunday of the month.
Where
Franklin is a 40min drive (45km) south-west of Hobart.
Insider tips
- Set sail on the Huon River aboard the historic fishing ketch Kerrawyn or on a 1948 Tasmanian-built motor cruiser with Huon River Cruises.
- Explore the riverbank on the short Franklin Landcare boardwalk.