The Village Green is a delight to be seen in Westbury Tasmania Australia

I have never been to an English country town, but when visiting Westbury in Tasmania, I can imagine that this is pretty close. This town is full of historical homes and it is a delight to wander the streets and just enjoy seeing the excellently preserved heritage buildings.

The Village Green would have to be my favourite place in this town of many delights. Way back in 1828 this large expanse of grassed land was planned as the centre of a garrison town by Lieutenant Governor, George Arthur. Local residents claim that it is the only traditional English style village green in Australia.

Today, the mature shade trees are welcoming visitors to come and stay a while. Surrounding the green are an abundance of historical homes and bed and breakfasts. The RSL is on the street opposite the memorials. I popped in for a quick refreshment and discovered the locals were very friendly. They had many suggestions on places to visit in their town.

Several of the locals had recently relocated from mainland Australia. They loved the village feel of the town, the relaxed atmosphere and of course, the welcoming residents. It is quite hard to leave a place where you feel you are at home as soon as you arrive.

The RSL building is heritage listed Victorian Italianate and was built in1832.

The cenotaph and memorial on the green commemorate locals who have fought in various wars.

I liked the unusual, whimsical, artillery statue, especially the smiling horse as it rears up.

A reminder of the origins of this green can be seen in the replica stocks that would have been used to punish wrongdoers. Today, the make for a great photo opportunity.

In tribute to the many Irish descendants, Westbury often hosts a St Patricks festival over 3 days in March.

Walk around the promenade and read the signs depicting past uses of buildings. Today, many of these buildings are private residences or accommodation venues.

The old convict station is now a beautiful private home.

No proper town in the 1800s would be without at least one church. St Andrew's Anglican Church is located on the promenade. Consecrated in 1851, this church still holds services at 9.30am every 2nd and 4th Sunday.