Waratah Tasmania

Wander * Explore * Discover
Nov 1, 2021
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Waratah Tasmania

Waratah is a picturesque historic town tucked away in north-west Tasmania, renowned for its rich mining heritage and striking natural surroundings. It was founded in the 1870s to support the legendary Mount Bischoff tin mine, which was once one of the richest tin deposits in the Southern Hemisphere.

Waratah proudly preserves its past through heritage buildings, heritage trail and mining relics that tell the story of Tasmania’s pioneering days. Waratah also holds a special place in Australian history as the first town in the country to be lit by electric streetlights in 1886.

Visitors can explore the town’s fascinating heritage along The Town of Tin Walk, view Waratah Falls, and see the impressive machinery at the Kenworthy Stamper Mill, gaining a deeper understanding of the people and industry that shaped this corner of Tasmania.

Waratah is located 106 kilometres from Devonport and 206 kilometres from Launceston, making it an ideal stop for those exploring Tasmania’s north-west and the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Waratah Falls

Right in the heart of Waratah, Waratah Falls is a unique and surprisingly accessible waterfall, just minutes from the town’s main street. The water cascades over a rocky cliff into a lush gully, creating a peaceful and picturesque spot that’s perfect for photography or simply enjoying a quiet moment in nature.

In the late 19th century, water from this stream was cleverly diverted to power the town’s mining operations and even provide electricity for Waratah’s streets, making it a fascinating blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage.

A short walking track from Annie Street winds down to the base of Waratah Falls.

Waratah Falls is a must-see highlight in this charming mining town.

Waratah's Town of Tin Walk

A highlight of our visit to Waratah was wandering around the Town of Tin Walk. The Town of Tin Walk is a fascinating self-guided stroll that takes you around the town while exploring its rich mining history. Along the route, you’ll encounter eight historic points of interest, each with informative signs that tell the story of the people, buildings, and events that shaped Waratah.

From heritage cottages and the original mining infrastructure to notable landmarks like the Kenworthy Stamper Mill, the walk offers a perfect mix of history, architecture, and local stories. It’s an easy and engaging way to immerse yourself in the town’s pioneering past, while enjoying the scenic streetscape and learning about tin mining.

More things to do in Waratah

The town centre of Waratah is filled with fascinating relics from its rich tin mining past, including the impressive Dudley Kennedy Waterwheel, which once powered mining operations, and the Kenworthy Stamper Mill, a remarkable piece of 19th-century machinery that showcases the ingenuity of Tasmania’s early miners. These historical landmarks provide a tangible connection to the town’s pioneering days and make exploring Waratah a journey back in time.

If you walk around Waratah Lake at dawn or dusk, you may be lucky enough to spot a platypus quietly gliding through the water.

The combination of history, engineering marvels, and natural beauty makes Waratah a unique destination where you can enjoy both heritage and the peaceful Tasmanian outdoors.