· NF

Kingston

Kingston, Norfolk Island

Kingston, located on the picturesque Norfolk Island, is a charming and historic destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, intriguing history, and a relaxed island vibe. As the main settlement on the islan…

#Kingston#Norfolk Island#Historic#Capital city#Tourist destination

1/5

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kingston.

Top Hotels in Kingston

Top Flights to Kingston

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kingston.

Tours

Explore Kingston's Historic Sites

Dive into the rich history of Kingston with a tour of its most iconic historical landmarks and museums.

Shopping

Shopping in Kingston Artisans Market

Discover unique artisan shops offering local crafts, art, and souvenirs.

Outdoor

Kingston Beachfront Adventure

Enjoy a day of outdoor fun with various activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and beach sports.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kingston.

Currency

$ | AUD | Australian Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English, Jamaican Patois

Average weather

Kingston

Jan

30°22°

Feb

30°22°

Mar

30°23°

Apr

31°24°

May

31°25°

Jun

32°25°

Jul

32°25°

Aug

32°25°

Sep

32°25°

Oct

31°24°

Nov

31°23°

Dec

30°22°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kingston.

What people love

Kingston is a charming and historic town located on Norfolk Island. Here are some pros of traveling to Kingston:

Rich history: Kingston is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, known for its well-preserved historic buildings and convict heritage. Visitors can explore sites such as the Georgian architecture of Quality Row, the Kingston Pier, and the ruins of the old penal settlement.
Scenic beauty: Kingston offers stunning views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy walks along the rugged cliffs, relax on the sandy beaches, or take a boat tour to explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.
Outdoor activities: Kingston is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities available such as hiking, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and bird watching. The island's subtropical climate makes it perfect for enjoying the outdoors all year round.
Local culture: Visitors to Kingston can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending traditional events, visiting art galleries and museums, and sampling the delicious local cuisine. The island's friendly locals are always happy to share their stories and traditions with visitors.

Overall, traveling to Kingston on Norfolk Island offers a unique opportunity to experience history, natural beauty, and local culture in a picturesque and peaceful setting.

What to know

Information not available.

Kingston is a significant historical area located on Norfolk Island, a small island in the Pacific Ocean between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia. Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia, and Kingston serves as its administrative center. Here is a detailed history of Kingston, Norfolk Island:

Early History

Polynesian Settlement: Before European discovery, there is evidence that Polynesian seafarers visited Norfolk Island. However, no permanent Polynesian settlements have been discovered.

European Discovery and Settlement

1774 - Discovery by Captain James Cook: Norfolk Island was discovered by the British explorer Captain James Cook on his second voyage to the South Pacific. He named it after the Duchess of Norfolk.
1788 - First Penal Settlement: The island was settled by the British as part of the first convict settlement in New South Wales. Lieutenant Philip Gidley King established a small penal colony at Kingston, which was chosen due to its sheltered bay and fresh water supply.
1814 - Abandonment: The first penal settlement was abandoned in 1814 due to its isolation and the difficulty of maintaining the settlement.

Second Penal Settlement

1825 - Re-establishment as a Penal Colony: Kingston was re-established as a penal colony. This period is often referred to as the "Second Penal Settlement" and was known for its harsh conditions and severe punishments.
1855 - Closure of the Penal Colony: The penal colony was closed, and the remaining convicts were transferred to Tasmania. The settlement was left abandoned once again.

Pitcairn Islanders

1856 - Arrival of the Pitcairn Islanders: Descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers were relocated from Pitcairn Island to Norfolk Island. They settled in Kingston, which became known as the administrative and population center of the island.

Modern Era

1901 - Integration into Australia: Norfolk Island became a part of the Commonwealth of Australia as a territory.

Significant Landmarks

Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA): This area is a World Heritage-listed site that includes remnants of the convict settlement, such as the Kingston Pier, Government House, and the convict-built Georgian buildings.
Norfolk Island Cemetery: Located in Kingston, it contains graves dating back to the first European settlement, including those of early settlers and convicts.
Old Military Barracks: Part of the historic area, these were used during the penal colony period.

Historical Figures

Philip Gidley King: Established the first convict settlement on Norfolk Island in 1788.
Fletcher Christian: Though not directly associated with Norfolk Island, the mutineers from the Bounty, led by Christian, indirectly influenced the island's history through their descendants.

Cultural Heritage

Kingston is not only a historical site but also a living community that reflects the unique cultural heritage of Norfolk Island, a blend of Polynesian, European, and Pitcairn Islander influences.

Kingston continues to be a place of historical interest, attracting visitors who are keen to explore its rich past and well-preserved colonial architecture.