Ross Tasmania

Wander * Explore * Discover
Jan 20, 2022
2 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Ross Tasmania

Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s Midlands, the charming town of Ross is a step back in time, famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic sandstone bridge. It’s conveniently located about 80 kilometres north of Hobart and 70 kilometres south of Launceston, making it an easy stop for travellers exploring the island.

Ross offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century life with its quaint cottages, heritage buildings, and the iconic Ross Female Factory, a fascinating site from Australia’s convict history. With peaceful streets, artisan shops, and lovely bakeries, Ross is perfect for history lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the timeless charm of rural Tasmania.

Ross Bridge

One of Ross’s standout landmarks is the Ross Bridge, a striking arched sandstone bridge completed in 1836 by convict labour. It is the third-oldest bridge in Australia and is renowned for its craftsmanship. The bridge is adorned with 186 intricate stone carvings, each carefully chiselled by convict stonemasons, depicting everything from native flora and fauna to symbolic and whimsical motifs.

Four Corners of Ross

At the heart of the town lies the famous Four Corners of Ross, an intersection steeped in history and character. Here, a war memorial and a Boer War field gun stand as reminders of Tasmania’s past.

Each corner of this iconic junction carries a curious name that tells a story of its own: Temptation is the Man O’ Ross Hotel, a welcoming spot for travellers; Recreation is the Town Hall, once the hub of community events; Salvation is the Catholic Church, offering spiritual solace; and Damnation was once a jail, now repurposed as a private residence. This quirky mix of history, architecture, and local lore makes the Four Corners a must-see for anyone visiting Ross.

Ross Female Factory

The Ross Female Factory is one of Tasmania’s most significant convict sites, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of female convicts during the early 19th century. Established in 1848, it served as a workhouse, prison, and hiring depot, where women were assigned to domestic work or punished for crimes.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the exercise yards, cells, and workshops, and learn about the harsh conditions and strict routines the women endured. Interpretive signage brings the history to life, sharing personal stories of resilience, hardship, and survival.

Today, the site stands as a poignant reminder of Tasmania’s convict past and is an essential stop for anyone interested in history, heritage, and the human stories behind Australia’s colonial era.

On the outskirts of town, you can explore the Ross Quarry, where the stone for the bridge and many buildings was quarried.