With Lake Barrington, West Kentish offers a clear focal point for a trip that combines nature and water sports. The international-standard rowing course and the wide range of recreational activities give the lake several facets. Accommodation ranges from self-contained holiday cottages on farmland to a retreat with several units and guest services.

Lake Barrington: conservation area, recreation destination and rowing course

Lake Barrington was created in 1969 as a water storage reservoir for power generation and developed into a hub for water- and nature-based recreation in north-west Tasmania. A brochure published by the Inland Fisheries Service in 2024 describes it as a protected Nature Conservation Area. Its technical origins, conservation status and role in recreation today are different facets of the same lake.

Kentish Park is one of three key access points for recreational activities at Lake Barrington. Public toilets are located directly on the shore at Kentish Park, on West Kentish Road in West Kentish. The park is therefore a specific landmark for recreation at the lake.

Lake Barrington is a popular destination for rowing, water skiing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, fishing, camping, picnicking and sightseeing. Its role in rowing is particularly notable: the lake is Tasmania’s international-standard rowing course and has hosted the World Rowing Championships.

The lake is open for fishing year-round, offering a planning option across seasons. Check the current regulations before fishing. Conditions for individual activities may vary.

Holiday cottages and a retreat in West Kentish

Manna Hill Farm Cottages is located in West Kentish and comprises two modern, self-contained holiday cottages. The cottages are set on 50 acres of farmland and offer views of Mount Roland and the surrounding countryside.

Eagles Nest Retreat comprises four accommodations. Each can host 2 to 8 guests, with a total capacity of up to 18 people. Guest offerings include spas and services such as a private chef or massages.

Different considerations come into play when choosing between the two: Manna Hill focuses on self-contained holiday cottages and views, while Eagles Nest Retreat offers the stated capacities and guest services.

Wine and regional picnic platters

Lake Barrington Vineyard specialises in sparkling wines and offers picnic platters featuring local produce. Its focus on sparkling wine and regional picnic platters provide two different culinary attractions: wine and food. Check the current availability of the platters before your visit.

In 2021, Lake Barrington Estate was listed on the North West Wine Trail at 1136 West Kentish Road, West Kentish. If you are planning a cellar-door visit, check the current arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Granton, Southport, Chudleigh, Pipers Brook, Weldborough, Huonville, Oatlands, Little Swanport

For the broader travel overview: Tasmania.