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Top 5 Historic Towns in Tasmania
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Mar 12, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Tasmania is home to Australia’s richest collection of convict-built heritage, with bridges, roads, churches, and other structures crafted between 1818 and 1853 still standing strong today. These historic towns offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s colonial past, where every cobblestone and sandstone building tells a story.
Top 5 Historic Towns in Tasmania
Richmond is one of Tasmania’s most charming historic towns, located just 25 minutes north-east of Hobart in the Coal River Valley. Best known for the iconic Richmond Bridge — Australia’s oldest stone bridge still in use — the town feels like a living museum, with beautifully preserved Georgian buildings, boutique shops, cosy cafés and rich colonial history at every turn.
Surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside, Richmond is an easy day trip from Hobart and a must-visit stop for anyone exploring southern Tasmania.
Oatlands is a charming historic town in Tasmania’s Southern Midlands, best known for its beautifully preserved sandstone buildings and peaceful country atmosphere. Located about 85 kilometres north of Hobart, Oatlands makes a perfect stop on a road trip between Hobart and Launceston, offering visitors a glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past. With its heritage streetscapes, windmill, and relaxed rural setting, Oatlands invites you to slow down and explore one of the state’s most character-filled country towns.
Many of the sandstone buildings were built by convicts in the early 1800s. They now line the high street of Oatlands and are used as cafes, boutique accommodations, and antique and craft stores.
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.
Longford is one of Tasmania’s most charming historic towns, steeped in colonial heritage and brimming with character. The streets are lined with elegant period homes, quaint hotels, inviting Airbnbs, and impressive colonial buildings that tell the story of the town’s past. At the heart of Longford, you’ll find several peaceful parks, the beautiful Longford Christ Church, and its historic cemetery, offering a glimpse into the town’s early settlers. Longford is located 24 kilometres south of Launceston and 187 kilometres from Hobart, and is an easy and rewarding stop for anyone exploring northern Tasmania.
Start your visit at the village green and follow the Path of History Walking Tour, which guides you past 34 sites of historical interest. From grand heritage buildings to charming little corners of the town, the walk provides a fascinating journey through Longford’s past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Evandale is a lovely historic village located 20 kilometres south of Launceston in Tasmania’s Northern Midlands. A National Trust-listed Georgian village, Evandale is renowned for its beautifully preserved architecture, charming cafés, boutique Airbnbs, and a delightful mix of antique and craft shops.
The town is also famous for hosting the Australian National Penny Farthing Championships each year, a quirky and fun event that draws visitors from across the country. With its tree-lined streets, scenic setting along the South Esk River, and vibrant local community, Evandale is a perfect stop for history lovers, photographers, and travellers looking to experience the timeless charm of rural Tasmania.
On this tour you will see the historic Richmond Bridge, Richmond Gaol and learn about the history of the area.
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