Historic photo of the Cascade Gardens, Cascade Brewery and Kunanyi/Mt Wellington.
The origins of Cascade Gardens date back to 1894, when Theo Lipscombe opened the Cascade Tea Gardens.
In December 1908, local newspapers reported significant improvements made by a Mr Sayer, who installed electric lighting throughout the gardens, illuminating the fern grottos and zig-zag paths with glow lights and Chinese lanterns.
These enhancements transformed the gardens into a popular destination for leisurely strolls and social gatherings, with vibrant flower beds lining the pathways and creating a picturesque setting.
The gardens were strategically positioned along the Hobart Rivulet, a waterway that played a vital role in Hobart’s early development. The rivulet not only powered Cascade Brewery — Australia’s oldest operating brewery — but also supported the nearby Cascade Female Factory, now a World-Heritage listed site of historical significance where female convicts were housed and employed during the 19th century.
Over time, Cascade Gardens evolved from a formal tea garden into a public park, offering amenities such as picnic areas, a children's playground, and barbecue facilities.
Today, Cascade Gardens remain a cherished part of Hobart’s urban landscape. They reflect the city’s layered history — from its colonial past and convict heritage to its embrace of public green spaces.
Whether you're drawn by its historical roots, its natural charm, or its proximity to key Hobart landmarks, Cascade Gardens offers a unique blend of heritage and serenity that continues to captivate visitors more than a century after its transformation from tea garden to public park.