Harland Rise Chapel, 1830
History
In the early 1830s, Harland Rise was acquired by John Ward Gleadow - a businessman, politician, committed philanthropist, and successful farmer. The oldest building on the property is the original chapel building, now converted into heritage-listed accommodation. As it was a private chapel, little is known about its use during the 19th century. However during the 1860s, it was used as a school and for church services.
Meticulously restored by hosts Peter and Claire Blackwood, Harland Rise Chapel seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary comforts. Baltic pine windows were locally crafted with reused glass to suit the period, and Tasmanian Oak floorboards, sourced from a nearby sawmill, were nailed by hand to suit the building’s era. Solid Baltic pine posts and overhead beam, sourced from the Hobart wharf, were used as the foundation for the new mezzanine level.
The solid cedarwood front door was found on a nearby farm and repurposed, with the window above restored using old glass. And the chapel’s front facade and interior walls, with their beautifully rustic handmade bricks, are all original, evoking a deep sense of history and charm.
Accommodation
Set amidst the peace and tranquility of a small working farm, Harland Rise Chapel commands spectacular valley views - the quintessential country escape for couples or solo travellers.
There are two king bedrooms, and one can be split into two king singles if required. Both bedrooms feature heirloom & antique furniture to compliment the chapel’s history, and beds were locally handcrafted from Tasmanian Oak and Blackwood. The main bedroom has its own ensuite bathroom and French doors that lead to private deck, a lovely spot for wine & cheese overlooking the countryside. In the spacious mezzanine-level bedroom, wake each morning to views of rolling green hills.
Two luxurious bathrooms, with Italian sandstone flooring and brushed nickel hardware have plush towels, heating for the cooler months, and all-natural bath and body products.
Throughout the accommodation, admire artwork by Claire’s mother, Telfer Dennis, a renowned Tasmanian artist whose works are displayed in the National Gallery.
The open-plan living and dining area features a cosy wood fire, perfect for curling up with a book from the selection on Tasmanian history, food, and art…or simply take in the stunning views of the country landscape.
A fully equipped kitchen with pantry staples allows you to cook your favourite meals, and generous breakfast provisions of locally-baked bread, homemade jam, fresh eggs, and fruit juice are included as part of your stay.
Outside, the crisp clean air and blissful serenity of Tasmania’s countryside beckons. After a day exploring the region, gather around the fire pit sipping local wine and enjoying a Tassie cheese platter, all while taking in uninterrupted views of the stars.
During the cooler seasons, guests are also welcome to harvest sloe berries from the farm with your hosts, to make their own sloe gin. Blackthorn hedgerows, famous for sloe berries in the Evandale area, are laden with fruit through April to July.
“One of the best-appointed places we have stayed in, and the breakfast provisions were delicious. Stunning views, and very quiet, but only a short drive from Evandale. Peter went out of his way to show us the property and tell us about the history of the chapel. Would highly recommend!”
Special Features
Valley Views
Cosy Fireplace
Breakfast Included
Full Kitchen
Things To Do
Harland Rise Chapel is just a five minute drive from the historic Evandale village, with antique and homewares stores, including The Evandale Village Store. Savour a long lunch in front of the open fire, or in the garden courtyard at The Clarendon Arms, dating to 1847. Evandale also has a popular weekend market held on Sundays, well worth a visit. Nearby historic attractions include Clarendon Estate, Glover Country, Franklin House, and Woolmers Estate.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, discover the hiking trails and ski fields at spectacular Ben Lomond, and Cataract Gorge Reserve in West Launceston is a scenic spot for picnics and swimming in summer.
Launceston, the UNESCO city of gastronomy, is 15 minutes away, with many excellent cafes, bars and restaurants. Or visit Harvest Launceston, held every Saturday morning, to purchase fresh Northern Tasmanian produce and gourmet delights, then bring your ingredients back to cook and enjoy in your accommodation.
All images by Ness Vanderburgh
