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Launceston and surrounds, Tasmania © Tourism Tasmania

Guide to Launceston and surrounds

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• Getting to Launceston
• When to visit

Discover epic nature, intriguing history and beautiful regional dining as you travel through Tasmania's north.

Northern Tasmania is a feast for the senses. Step off the beaten track to discover secluded beaches, historic heritage estates and forests teeming with wildlife. The towns are just as spectacular; rich in history and enveloped by world-class wineries and meandering waterways – it’s a beautiful blend of nature, culture, history and cuisine.

Launceston Airport is only accessible on a domestic flights. So if you are visiting from overseas, you'll need to transfer through another Australian city or drive north from Hobart Airport. 

• Launceston Airport (LST) is 14km (9mi) from Launceston city
• Hobart Airport (HBA) is 190km (118mi) from Launceston city
• Car hire and taxi services are available from both airports

Once you reach Launceston, your best option for exploring Tasmania's northern region is by hiring a car.

Staying true to the famous Tasmanian climate, Launceston is cooler than other Australian destinations all year round. Summer is a great time to visit, when the sky is clear, the weather is warm and the festivals and events are in abundance.

• High season: Summer (December to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don't miss: Mona Foma festival of art and music (usually held in summer)

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*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

The ultimate travel guide to Launceston

• Eat & Drink
• More of Tasmania

Quite literally, the heart of Tasmania, Launceston is a boutique riverside city located just at the top of the Tamar Valley within reach of the wineries. The to-do list in this charming city is long and varied. There’s cultural heritage to devour, beautiful parks and gardens to explore, and a thriving food and wine atmosphere: from fine dining restaurants to relaxed cafes . Launceston is actually one of Australia’s oldest cities and features elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture, which adds another dimension to the city’s charm.

Top Things to See and Do in Launceston

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11 of the best things to do in Launceston

Perched on the banks of Kanamaluka/The Tamar River, the historic city of Launceston is an oft-overlooked hub for great f...

If you’re guilty of overlooking Launceston in favour of the state’s capital it is time you rethink your position because Launceston is fast becoming a city that demands attention. From its art galleries, museums and design studios to its mix of natural attractions that include Cataract Gorge , lush hiking trails to waterfalls, and a nearby lavender farm, there is just no shortage of ways to entertain yourself here. Uncover the top things to do and see in Launceston below.

A Queen Mary Scandi-inspired tour of Tasmania

Tasmania offers everything you need to have a Scandi-inspired holiday, fit for a royal. Tasmanian-born Mary Donaldson has officia...

The 9 best things to do in Tamar Valley

From skydiving to frolicking with the local penguin population, there's a lot to explore in Wild Tamar with adventures for every k...

A guide to visiting Tasmania’s Cataract Gorge

Discover world class natural beauty in the heart of Launceston. There aren’t many cities where you can find a 65-million-year-o...

Sip, dine, sleep: the essential Tamar Valley wineries guide

Visit Tasmania’s oldest wine-growing area and discover why the region has made a name for itself as one of the world’s best co...

Perched on the banks of Kanamaluka/The Tamar River, the historic city of Launceston is an oft-overlooked hub for great food, wine,...

A guide to Launceston’s markets

There’s much to peruse, graze on and discover at Launceston’s iconic markets. Launceston’s markets bring together the best ...

The best day trips to take from Launceston

Having long – and somewhat unfairly – struggled in the shadow of Tasmania's much-loved capital, Launceston has remained a rela...

Top Launceston accommodation

From luxury accommodation to camping along the river, Launceston has an option for everyone. Discover heritage architecture, elegant design, stays that give back and friendly hospitality at some of Launceston’s top hotels, or find a dreamy Airbnb to call your own for a stay in Launceston. Find the right accommodation for you in our guides below.

Checking in: The best accommodation in Launceston

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8 of the best hotels in Launceston 

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The 7 dreamiest Airbnbs in Launceston

Experience the history, creativity and unique spirit of Launceston with one of these dreamy Airbnb stays. Launceston’s rich his...

Inside Australia’s first social enterprise hotel

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Launceston restaurants and cafes

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Your ultimate guide to the jewel in Tasmania’s epicurean crown

Boasting lakeside views and  Modern Australian cuisine, Josef Chromy Wines has earned its place at the top of your Tasm...

From cheap eats to fine dining from breakfast to dessert, Launceston has it all. The way to the heart of this city is truly through your stomach. Launceston has been crowned a UNESCO City of Gastronomy after all. It should therefore comes as no surprise that foodies will be well taken care of here. Discover the best restaurants , vibrant cafe culture , weekly markets and nearby wineries below .

Boasting lakeside views and  Modern Australian cuisine, Josef Chromy Wines has earned its place at the top of your Tasmanian must...

Top Towns for 2022: Launceston is Tasmania’s foodie capital

Nola James shares her top picks for eating around lutruwita/Tasmania’s newly minted world heritage-listed culinary capital that ...

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Explore more of Tasmania

• East Coast Tasmania
• Bay of Fires
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© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

Tasmania Explorer

Launceston Travel Guide: Things To Do And Accommodation

Heading to Launceston? Launceston isn’t just a popular starting point for travel in Tasmania but also a fun destination to explore and enjoy.

There are many things to do in Launceston and the surrounding Tamar Valley from taking the chair lift at Cataract Gorge (pictured above) to ziplining over the Penny Royal to visiting the infamous monkeys at City Park.

Keep reading more below in this Launceston Travel Guide!

Click here to download your free Tasmania Road Trip Planner checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!

Top Things To Do In Launceston

There are some great places to visit in Launceston. Here are full guides to some great choices.

Top 20 Fun Things To Do In Launceston With Kids!

Penny Royal Launceston: Adventures And Fun!

Launceston accommodation.

Launceston has a great range of accommodation, and there are some fabulous choices. Find all our top Launceston accommodation guides below.

Top 10 Best Hotels In Launceston, Tasmania, Australia

Village Family Motor Inn Launceston: Fun And Great Value

Getting to launceston.

Looking for information for getting to Launceston? Read below.

How To Get From Hobart To Launceston✅

We hope you love exploring Launceston’s highlights as much as we do. Find more places to discover and explore in Tasmania  here.

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Tasmania’s second city has forever been locked in rivalry with big-smoke Hobart to the south. Launcestonians argue that their architecture is more elegant, their parks more beautiful, their surrounding hills more verdant and their food scene zestier. It is indeed a city where art and design are highly valued, the locals embrace the outdoors, and food and coffee culture thrives. A striking new hotel inside the city's tallest building – repurposing grain silos, of all things – has opened, while Cataract Gorge remains the sort of natural adornment you rarely find inside cities, and it's an easy and endearing base for those exploring the Tamar Valley or other parts of the north. There's a lot to like about 'Lonnie'.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cataract Gorge

At magnificent Cataract Gorge, right at the city centre's edge, the bushland, cliffs and ice-cold South Esk River feel a million miles from town. At First…

Queen Victoria Museum

Inside the restored and reinvented Inveresk railway yards, QVMAG has the usual assembly of dinosaurs and stuffed animals, but they sit alongside historic…

Queen Victoria Art Gallery

Colonial paintings, including works by John Glover, are the pride of the collection at this art gallery in a meticulously restored 19th-century building…

Franklin House

A relatively short drive south of the city, Franklin House is one of Launceston’s most fetching Georgian-era homes. Built in 1838 by former convict and…

Boag’s Brewery

James Boag’s beer has been brewed on William St since 1881. See the amber alchemy in action on 90-minute guided tours, which include a beer and cheese…

There's loads going on at this shady park. It's home to enormous oak and plane trees, an over-the-top Victorian fountain, a conservatory, a Victorian…

Prince's Square

Prince's Sq once hosted military drills, public hangings and rowdy political meetings. These days, it's a lovely place to relax. There's a bronze fountain…

Launceston Tramway Museum

Launceston had trams until 1952, when the rails were ripped up and the carriages sold off. Now you can visit this volunteer-staffed museum to take a ride…

Latest stories from Launceston

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Launceston & Easy Day Trips

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Graced by elegant 19th-century buildings and oak-studded parks, Launceston lies in a picturesque spot on the island's northeast at the head of the Tamar River. History and architecture buffs will find plenty of things to do in Tasmania's second largest town . Beautifully restored colonial buildings, manicured public squares, and well-tended parks infuse an air of English charm in the center of Launceston, and you can explore the town's fascinating history on a heritage trail .

Nature is another big draw. A mere 15-minute stroll along the river from the town center lies beautiful Cataract Gorge , with its cascades, hiking trails, and gardens, and you'll find plenty of Launceston adventures in the surrounding wilderness, from ziplining and ropes courses to mountain biking. Launceston is also a hot spot for foodies, thanks to the bounty of high-quality produce from the nearby Tamar Valley .

In the surrounding countryside, grand old mansions and estates, some of which are World Heritage sites, attest to Launceston's early prosperity and are lovely locations for day trips. The city is also only a 2.5-hour drive from the state capital, and you'll find plenty of tourist attractions between Launceston and Hobart , along the way.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions in and around Launceston.

1. Cataract Gorge

2. city park, 3. queen victoria museum & art gallery, 4. heritage walks, 5. tamar island wetlands, 6. hollybank wilderness adventures, 7. harvest launceston, 8. national automobile museum of tasmania, 9. prince's square, 10. royal park, 11. old umbrella shop, 12. franklin house, where to stay in launceston, day trips from launceston, wineglass bay, freycinet national park, liffey falls, brickendon house and woolmers estate, entally estate, ben lomond national park, beaconsfield mine & heritage centre, map of tourist attractions in launceston & easy day trips.

Sculpted by the South Esk River, Cataract Gorge lies only 15 minutes on foot from the center of Launceston. On both sides of the steep gorge, walking trails from the 1890s skirt the cliff face, providing panoramic views of the river far below. To reach the top, hop aboard the world's longest single-span chairlift. Kings Bridge also offers excellent views.

South of the river is a café and a sparkling swimming pool, which is a lovely spot for a dip on a warm day. On the northern side, at Cliff Grounds, you can see colorful peacocks and friendly wallabies in the fern-fringed Victorian garden. For a glimpse of the sheer cliffs and cascades from water level, hop aboard a river cruise.

At the mouth of the gorge, Penny Royal Adventures is a favorite family-friendly attraction, with ziplining, rock-climbing, and cliff walks, among other attractions.

Official site: http://www.launcestoncataractgorge.com.au/

Dotted with old elms and oaks, on Launceston's eastern edge, City Park is home to a clutch of popular tourist attractions and pleasant picnic nooks. You can visit the Japanese macaques in a small enclosure; admire the plants in the conservatory; and browse the exhibits in the City Park Radio Museum, housed in a beautiful old heritage house.

Walking paths wind around the park past the main sites, including a duck pond and the elegant Jubilee Fountain . Children will love the play area and the little train, which often chugs around the park.

Also here, Albert Hall was built for the Tasmanian International Exhibition of 1891. It's now a cultural center, used for concerts and exhibitions. At the edge of the park, Design Tasmania spotlights a collection of Tasmanian woodwork crafted predominantly from sassafras, huon pine, and myrtle. Locals and visitors come here to admire the exhibits and buy unique gifts.

Address: Cimitiere and Tamar Streets, Launceston, Tasmania

The Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery, in two different locations, is a great place to brush up on some local history and admire Australian and international art. This is the largest regional museum in Australia.

Housed in an impressive 19th-century heritage-listed building, the art gallery, on Wellington Street, features 10 different galleries displaying Tasmanian art from colonial days to the present, including historical photos, international paintings, and decorative arts. The gallery also hosts a family art space. Its principal attraction is a splendid Chinese temple decorated with gold leaf, containing ceremonial items from mining towns in northeastern Tasmania.

The museum, on Inverness Street, occupies a railway workshop from the 1870s. Its collections trace the early convict and colonial days, as well as the natural history of Tasmania. Children will love the planetarium and interactive science displays. Visiting the museum and art gallery is one of the best free things to do in Launceston, though donations are much appreciated.

Official site: http://www.qvmag.tas.gov.au/qvmag/

Launceston is renowned for the lovingly restored colonial and Victorian buildings, and you can explore the city's architectural gems on self-guided heritage walks.

The Merchants Machinery Trail explores Launceston's milling and mining history and visits buildings such as the magnificent Neoclassical Customs House of 1885, a reflection of the town's 19th-century wealth, the Batman-Fawkner Inn (c. 1820), and the red brick post office with its rather mismatched tower.

The Rags to Riches Trail explores the town's beautiful commercial buildings and churches. The second oldest synagogue in Australia, dating from 1844, and St. John's Anglican Church of 1824 are on this itinerary.

The Government to Gorge Trail leads through the city's administrative hub, past the imposing Neoclassical Town Hall of 1864 with its chiming clock to beautiful Cataract Gorge .

A 10-minute drive from the center of Launceston, Tamar Island Wetlands is a haven for nature lovers-especially birders. First stop should be the interpretation center, where you can learn about the history of the Tamar River, the wetlands ecosystems, and the resident wildlife.

After browsing the displays, stroll along the boardwalks and admire the lovely views of the Tamar River with its tranquil lagoons. Black swans, great egrets, ducks, swallows, and pelicans are frequently spotted, as well as frogs and snakes (in summer). Pademelons (small marsupials) often peek out from the fringing grasslands.

Photographers have a chance to snap some great photos here, and serious birders should bring their binoculars for close-up views. Best of all, admission is free, although donations are welcomed.

Address: West Tamar Highway, Riverside, Launceston

Official site: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/indeX.aspX?base=4118

At Hollybank Wilderness Adventures, about a 15-minute drive northeast from the center of Launceston, thrill seekers can choose from multiple adrenaline-charged outdoor activities.

Glide up to 50 meters above ground through a blue gum forest canopy between "Cloud Stations" on a 2.5-hour zipline adventure. Expert guides train you and share fascinating details about the area's ecology, and special kids' ziplining adventures are available, as are dusk zipline tours.

Another popular adventure here is the self-guided ropes course , which is color-coded according to age and skill level and incorporates plenty of fun activities, from crawling through nets and teetering on tightropes to crossing shaky bridges.

If you're scared of heights, opt for the 90-minute off-road Segway tour , which winds along bush trails through old- and new-growth eucalyptus forests. You can also race through the forest on a mountain bike adventure, and choose from three different courses, from beginner to advanced.

Address: 66 Hollybank Road, Underwood, Tasmania

Official site: https://hollybankadventures.com.au/

Held every Saturday from 8:30am to 12:30pm, the Harvest Launceston community farmers market is one of the must-do Launceston experiences for foodies. Here, you can sample and purchase some of Tasmania's famous fresh produce and artisan foods. Chocolate, honey, fresh-plucked blueberries, ethically raised meats, organic dairy, fresh-baked breads, plump veggies, and sweet cherries will tantalize your tastebuds, and you can chat directly with the farmers who grow this bounty of treats. If you're visiting in the fall, be sure to crunch into a crisp local apple while you're here-Tasmania isn't called the Apple Isle for nothing!

Foodies who want to explore more of the state's delectable treats can also sign up for a gourmet walking tour, like Taste.Walk.Talk . The pre-dinner tour to local hot spots is one of the most popular things to do in Launceston at night.

Address: 71 Cimitiere Street, Launceston, Tasmania

Official site: https://harvestmarket.org.au/

Car and motorbike enthusiasts can take a trip down memory lane at the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. Opposite City Park , the museum displays an impressive collection of well-restored cars and motorcycles, with four themed exhibits every year such as Jaguar, British Sporting Heritage, Rolls Royce, and Aussie icons. Rotating exhibits ensure there is always something new to see at this popular museum, from vintage matchbox vehicles to muscle car legends.

The gift shop here is worth a visit on its own, especially if you're looking for something special for the car-lover in your life.

Address: Corner of Willis and Cimitiere streets, Launceston, Tasmania

Official site: http://www.namt.com.au/

Surrounded by elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings, 19th-century Prince's Square is one of Launceston's finest public spaces. It was once a clay pit for building bricks and later became a parade ground and place of assembly. From the mid-19th century onwards, the park was gradually developed and is now dotted with magnificent old trees, some reputedly planted by members of the Royal family.

The eclectic St. John's Anglican Church, built in 1824, is a distinctive landmark along the square, and the elaborate fountain came from the 1855 Paris Exhibition. Sightseers can stroll around the park on the network of paths and picnic under the shade of the old oaks.

Address: St. John, Elizabeth, Charles, and Frederick Streets, Launceston, Tasmania

To the west of Launceston town center, at the point where the North and South Esk merge to form the Tamar River, Royal Park is another popular green space in the city. The park is home to the Queen Victoria Museum, as well as Launceston's Cenotaph. You can stroll along the boardwalk edging the river to the Cataract Gorge Reserve or hop aboard a river cruise from the nearby dock. Amenities include exercise equipment, a children's play area, skate park, and barbecue areas.

Address: 78 Paterson Street, Launceston, Tasmania

If you want to step back in time and pick up some handy local travel trips, visit the quaint Old Umbrella Shop. This fine 1860s building has remained almost unchanged since the end of the 19th century. Three generations of the Shott family sold umbrellas and products handcrafted from Tasmanian woods here, and the shop still features the original plate glass windows, sign-writing, and fittings from the mid-Victorian era.

In 1979, the National Trust acquired the property, and it now contains an umbrella museum, souvenir shop, and tourist information center . Friendly local volunteers provide a wealth of information on the history of the shop, as well as Launceston's tourist attractions. This is also a wonderful place to buy gifts, from woodcarvings and local body products to stationery and home decor. And yes, you can even buy an umbrella!

Address: 60 George Street, Launceston, Tasmania

Official site: https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/old-umbrella-shop/

A short drive from the center of Launceston, Franklin House is a grand Georgian home built by convicts in 1838 for wealthy businessman Britton Jones. After changing hands a few times, the house spent decades as a private school for boys before the National Trust acquired the property.

Today, tourists can admire the beautifully restored home with its lavish use of Australian red cedar, antique musical instruments, and period furniture. After a tour, take a leisurely stroll around the well-tended gardens, and pop into the tearoom for a snack.

Address: 413-419 Hobart Road, Launceston, Tasmania

Official site: http://www.nationaltrust.org.au/tas/FranklinHouse

• Luxury Hotels: Occupying heritage-listed former silos, a short drive from the city center, the aptly named Peppers Silo Hotel sits right on the river. Dine on "paddock-to-plate" cuisine in the excellent restaurant, book a treatment at the spa, or work out in the gym. On the waterfront in the city center, its sister property, Peppers Seaport Hotel, offers bright, contemporary rooms. Suites come with fully equipped kitchens. Dripping with charm, the four-star Red Feather Inn bed-and-breakfast evokes French provincial elegance. Guests choose this property for the multi-course gourmet dining at the on-site restaurant, stunning decor and gardens, and quiet location out of town.
• Mid-Range Hotels: In an elegant building from the mid-1800s near City Park, the Clarion Hotel City Park Grand, features bright rooms with traditional styling. You can walk to downtown museums and attractions. If you're traveling with a family or like the option of preparing your own meals, The Sebel Launceston is a great choice. Decorated with Tasmanian stone and hardwood accents, the one-bedroom and multi-bedroom suites come with separate bedrooms and balconies. Some also have kitchens, laundry facilities, and spa baths. For an elegant bed-and-breakfast experience, stay at The Florance, opposite City Park. Highlights of this Victorian-style property include the stylish botanical theme, friendly hosts, and delicious continental breakfast served in a sun-splashed conservatory.
• Budget Hotels: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the fresh, clean rooms at the Mowbray Hotel. Most rooms share bathrooms, a kitchen, and lounge, and a few larger rooms come with en suites. A short drive from the city, the great-value Riverside Hotel Motel offers comfy rooms and family suites, as well as a popular bistro, and for something completely different, try the Pod Inn, where you sleep in high-tech capsules.

About a 2.5-hour drive from Launceston, you can hike in the World Heritage-listed wilderness of beautiful Freycinet National Park, one of Australia's oldest nature reserves. Among the most popular places to visit here is Wineglass Bay, a ravishing sweep of white-sand beach and sapphire sea, which graces the list of Australia's top beaches . Popular things to do include the 20-minute walk to the lookout, where you can admire the soaring, pink granite rocks, called the Hazards, rising from one end of the curving bay.

Other top tourist attractions in the park include Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay, and the Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Lookout.

Liffey Falls are among Tasmania's most beautiful cascades, about a 50-minute drive southwest of Launceston. Water from the Liffey River tumbles over eroded sandstone steps in a series of picturesque waterfalls, which provide a beautiful backdrop for a hike through a rain forest of myrtle, leatherwood, and towering eucalyptus trees. Giant tree ferns line the trail, making the whole experience feel like you are on the set of Jurassic Park, and the falls make a lovely photo op.

You can choose between two trails: Starting from the upper parking lot, reached via a steep, windy road, a two-kilometer round-trip trail takes about 45 minutes. From the lower parking lot, the hike takes longer on a rougher track, but is equally beautiful.

Another lovely waterfall and picnic spot a little closer to Launceston is Lilydale Falls , about 30 minutes' drive north of town.

Official site: https://www.parks.tas.gov.au/?base=1380

About 18 kilometers southwest of Launceston, Brickendon House and the adjacent Woolmer's Estate are two of Tasmania's oldest convict-built farms and are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

William Archer, the state's first Tasmanian-born architect, settled at Brickendon in 1824 with his family, and his descendents still operate the farm today. You can stroll around the lovely gardens, dotted with old mulberry trees and fragrant flowers; explore some of the convict-built farm structures; and learn about the history of this prominent Tasmanian clan.

The nearby Woolmer's Estate was settled by Thomas Archer in 1817. When in bloom, the National Rose Garden here is beautiful. Both properties have a clutch of cozy farm cottages available for overnight stays.

Brickendon House

• Address: 236 Wellington Street, Longford, Tasmania
• http://brickendon.com.au/

Woolmers Estate

• Address: Woolmer's Lane, Longford, Tasmania
• http://www.woolmers.com.au/

A 15-minute drive from Launceston, Entally House at Entally Estate is one of the oldest mansions owned by the National Trust. It was built around 1820 by Thomas Reibey, whose mother was transported to New South Wales as a convict at the age of 13 and eventually became a successful businesswoman in Sydney. Thomas Reibey's son became prime minister of Tasmania in 1866.

You can tour the beautiful grounds and gardens here, as well as the elegant home with its Regency interior and valuable collection of silver. Also on-site is a coach house, stables, chapel, farmyard, and Australia's oldest conservatory. After a tour, linger a while to enjoy the popular Devonshire tea.

Address: 782 Meander Valley Road, Hadspen, Tasmania

Official site: http://www.entallyestate.com.au/

Less than a two-hour drive east of Launceston, Ben Lomond National Park lures large numbers of hikers and nature lovers and is the most popular winter sports area in Tasmania. A steep road with many bends leads up to the summit plateau with its mountain huts.

During the winter sports season, an alpine village operates on the slopes of 1,572-meter Legges Tor , Tasmania's second highest mountain. Seven lifts glide up the slopes for downhill skiing. Striking features of Ben Lomond National Park are the dolerite columns, carved out by ice age glaciers and dissected by frost. In spring and summer, wildflowers dot the moorland.

Formerly the Grubb Shaft Museum, the Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre traces the history of the Tamar Valley and its mining heritage. One of the most popular exhibits is the poignant Mine Rescue Exhibition, which recalls the heroic rescue of the miners who were trapped for two weeks in the Beaconsfield Mine, 950 meters below ground level, during a rockfall in 2006.

The Holographic Mine Experience transports you into the subterranean world of tunnels and caves. The museum is also packed with child-friendly exhibits. Kids can push buttons and pull levers, pan for gold, play an old pedal organ, and clamber through tunnels.

Address: West Street, Beaconsfield, Tasmania

Official site: http://www.beaconsfieldheritage.com.au/

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Tasmania : Once you've seen all the sights in and around Launceston, find more things to see and do in Australia's smallest state with our page on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tasmania. World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, historic sites, and heritage trails are all on the list, and you'll find plenty more cultural attractions in Hobart , the state's capital.

Tassie Outdoor Adventures : For winter sports, Ben Lomond National Park is one of the best places in Australia to ski, but you'll find plenty of things to do year-round in this action-packed state. Tasmania's Central Highlands is one of Australia's top fishing destinations , with fantastic trout fishing in crystal-clear lakes and streams. Hiking is also a top activity, and the Wineglass Bay Circuit in Freycinet National Park is one of the top hikes in Australia .

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Three days in Launceston, Tasmania – travel guide

Drink fine wine, swing through the air and indulge in a little devil worship in and around the historic city in north-east Tasmania

The main attractions

Once the domain of the Tasmanian tiger – the sadly extinct dog-like marsupial with stripes on its back and the unoffical emblem of the city – Launceston was settled by the British in 1806, and is the second biggest city in Tasmania after Hobart. Situated on the Tamar estuary, where the North Esk and South Esk rivers meet, it’s a compact and elegant full of Victorian architecture and handsome parks, surrounded by some spectacular scenery.

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Cataract Gorge is a 15-minute walk from the centre, a stunning spot where parkland with roaming peacocks gives way to an awe-inspiring valley spanned by a suspension bridge, Launceston’s bushland sloping up from the South Esk. With lookouts providing breathtaking views down the river, it’s perfect for a morning’s walk, with tracks catering to all fitness levels. Those without vertigo – and not unnerved by the fact that an unlocked iron bar lies between you and a hundred-foot drop into the wilderness – can be ascend above it all on the world’s longest chairlift, which whisks you above the trees, black swans and turbulent waters for $15 return.

In the city itself there’s a design centre , showcasing the area’s architects and furniture makers; the Queen Victoria museum and art gallery , with an interesting selection of work including everything from the colonial art including Robert Dowling’s picture Aborigines of Tasmania , to Jenny Gill’s collection of matchboxes ; and the Seaport area, great for a bracing stroll or a quayside lunch. It’s very quiet at night though, to the point where if you wander down beside the old Boags brewery you might feel like the last people left on earth.

To get the most out of the area you’ll need a car. With its sumptuous hills and ancient, fern-wreathed oak trees, the scenery of northern Tasmania is very different to the rest of Australia, and deserves wide-ranging exploration. You might even see a Tassie tiger (you won’t).

Segway through the trees

About 20 minutes’ drive from Launceston lies the Hollybank Treetops Adventure and Reserve , where brave souls can get strapped to harnesses and go swinging on zipwires from tree to tree. Devoted cowards and those with more delicate constitutions can take a guided Segway tour through forest trails. It takes about 10 minutes to master a Segway, and soon you’re speeding through eucalyptus groves, fern-filled Dogwood forests and into clearings where you can bomb around to your heart’s content.

Our two guides were friendly and knowledgeable, via an earpiece pointing out areas of interest (the spindly ash trees planted by British settlers wanting a taste of home) and warning of dangers (rocks painted a fluorescent green to alert the unwary and, apparently, snakes). It’s not cheap – $100 apiece – but it’s exhilarating.

Indulge in devil worship

The undisputed highlight of our trip, Trowunna Wildlife Park is situated about 70km west of Launceston, in the middle of wonderfully green and gold landscapes reminiscent of the UK’s Peak District. A giant statue of a Tasmanian devil guards the entrance. Inside, you can see plenty of the real things, marsupials which are only ankle-height but have a lot of attitude – it’s hilarious to see them come defiantly barreling towards you when they spot you coming over to their pen. “They scream and yell but so do a lot of people,” says one of the conservation team, a dedicated bunch headed up by Androo Kelly. The devils eat carrion and it’s a sight to behold when they start tearing up the corpse of what may have once been a rabbit, about five of them taking a limb each and loudly crunching through skin and bone. Here, thanks to the staff’s care, the devils are thankfully free of devil facial tumour disease, a communicable cancer which has devastated the species in the wild.

Besides the devils, Trowunna is like being in the garden of Eden. A gang of kangaroos hang out on the lawn, seemingly unbothered by human presence. You can cuddle a wombat – one woman had flown from Western Australia to do just that. Wallabies stand alert in the undergrowth, and spotted quolls, like mice crossed with leopards, run around in large compounds. The point of the place is conservation; most of the animals end up here after being injured or orphaned, and many are returned to the wild when they have been fully rehabilitated. As the afternoon wanes and the fields are bathed in golden light, it’s a truly magical place.

A doorway to the past

Built in 1838 by former convict, and later brewer and innkeeper Britton Jones, Franklin House is still recognisably a colonial family home, with the accumulated furniture, china, clocks and even a wedding dress once owned by its many former residents. You can’t touch, but with little roped off, you’re welcome to peer at it all as closely as you like, and the place still seems like a home rather than a showpiece will the history bleached out. Downstairs, you can see the old schoolroom built when the house was extended four years after it was built, the stables, the kitchen, and there’s a cosy tea room too.

Behind the house are large gardens to ramble around in, where in the afternoon I visited a woman who was hanging pieces of coloured glass from one of the trees, one of several artistic interventions. Now the headquarters of the National Trust of Australia , at only $10 for an adult visit, it’s a vivid piece of history, and a bargain. Like many of Tasmania’s buildings, it also seems to be a magnet for those interested in (of perhaps morbidly obsessed with) the paranormal . Those people are also well catered to by the ghost tour Launceston hosts.

Local produce

The Tamar valley around Launceston is wine country, and you can get a tour that lasts most of the day with Prestige Leisure . At upwards of $150 it isn’t cheap (though lunch is included), but unless one of your party is willing to stick to mineral water, driving is clearly not an option. There are over 30 wineries in the valley, most of which offer cellar door tastings. We took in half a dozen, all with plenty to recommend them.

Josef Chromy wines offers an oaked Chardonnay so delicious each sip deserves to be accompanied by a trumpet fanfare ( their 2011 vintage was declared the best in the world ), especially when accompanied by a delicious charcuterie. Vélo , owned by the former Olympic cyclist Michael Wilson and his wife Mary, has a delightful dining room (complete with bespoke light fittings made out of large twigs) and splendid wines, particularly their 2009 Pinot Noir. Mary says that the backbreaking business of building up a vineyard came naturally to her husband – athletes, she points out, “love pain”.

There are the sweeping vistas of Tamar Ridge and Devil’s Corner, named after a treacherous bend in the river, whose 2013 Sauvignon Blanc has hints of passionfruit and is dangerously quaffable. The cellar door of Marion’s Vineyard is a cosy shed full of the owner’s Ralph Steadman-influenced artworks as well as amazing wines, while Goaty Hill is a magnificent spot for lunch. By the afternoon, and the time you get to Holm Oak , another winery, even if your palate is getting a bit jaded, as mine was, you can meet a large pig called Pinot who will play "sit" for apples – and there’s cider as well as yet more fine wine if you’re still in the mood for a tipple.

Local produce is best sampled via the lunch platters offered in many of the local wineries and cafes in the region, such as Lilydale Larder , set up by Sarah Hirst, a former political journalist based in Canberra, and her husband Mark. Their lunch platter groans with local delights from wallaby sausage to smoked salmon and wonderfully delicate cheeses, in a setting that’s idiosyncratic (all exposed wood and raw edges) without seeming too much like a stage set.

Eating and drinking

Launceston is working hard to gain a reputation as a foodie destination, and the three restaurants we had dinner at all impressed. Situated in the old rail yard and not exactly easy to find (follow the old train tracks), once you’re in the Blue Café-Bar the excellent service and polished-concrete industrial chic will sooth any navigation-induced stress. The food is delicious, particular the starters; both my sister’s beef carpaccio with little pieces of fried polenta and my pastel-coloured tuna tartare were beautiful both to see and taste. Starters are around the $24 mark; mains about $30.

The following night we tried the Black Cow , a new steakhouse by the people behind Stillwater , said to be the best restaurant in the region. They certainly know how to cook a macho hunk of protein, but for my money the star of the meal were the dozen local oysters we had presented five ways as a starter, each a mouthful to tell your grandchildren about. The service is fantastic – not overbearing, but so tuned into your requirements that you don’t even have to ask for your coat when you’re finally ready to go. It’s not cheap though – two of us burned cheerfully north of $300 without really trying. Having wine served from conical flask in the name of Breaking Bad chic was also an idea that took some getting used to.

Mud has a prime location on the harbour, and the chef clearly has big ambitions, but not everything comes off – my fried Chinese chicken was saltier than a Queensland croc. It was, however, preceeded by a wonderfully delicate rabbit tortellini, washed down by some of that Vélo Sauvignon Blanc. Starters are around $20-25, mains $35-40 and there’s a good selection of local wines on offer.

Where to stay

We stayed at the Teahouse Apartment, part of the Hatherley Birrell Collection , right in the middle of the city. It's a large open plan flat with an astroturfed back yard you could sit out on, a lemon tree out front, and two double bedrooms, one kingsized and with an en suite bathroom. The lounge room was decorated with Japanese touches including a kimono hung from the wall. Cheese, figs and fruit compote waited in the fridge to be scoffed. The only thing it lacked was, er, drinkable tea for those with simple tastes (me), and the heating was also a bit difficult to control as the Tassie temperature plunged after dark. It costs $385 a night to hire.

Getting there and back

Fly into Launceston airport and the town is a 20-minute drive away, or buses leave every 20 minutes. The city is compact and walkable, with Cataract Gorge in striking distance, but you may need to research the local buses to get into the countryside.

• Guardian Australia travelled with Tourism Tasmania
• Australian short breaks
• Short breaks
• Restaurants
• Wine holidays

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Tamar Island
• 4.2 Cataract Gorge
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge

Launceston is the second-largest city in Tasmania and provides a base to explore the northern part of the state. The city was settled in 1805 and has a population of 87,645 (2021), making it Australia's fifth-largest inland city.

Understand [ edit ]

• Tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Launceston is approximately 50 minutes from Melbourne on the mainland. Daily flights fly from Melbourne with Virgin Australia , Qantas Link , and Jetstar . Direct flights from Sydney are available daily and direct flights from Brisbane are available on selected days.

-41.545 147.215 1 Launceston Airport ( LST  IATA ) has four gates and not a lot of flights, so security moves quite quickly. The waiting area has free but slow wifi, a few cafes, and a standard airport shop with books and souvenirs. Rental cars are available at the airport.

By car [ edit ]

Launceston is a hub of the highway system in Northern Tasmania. From Hobart , Devonport , or Burnie , use Highway 1.

Get around [ edit ]

The best way to get around Launceston is by car. Taxis are available, but may add up to be expensive; try to get a transfer when you are moving from the airport to your hotel. Car rentals are available for reasonable rates. There is also a Metro bus service which goes all through the town.

Bicycle is a reasonable way to get around Launceston and out the Gorge. Traffic is fairly quiet in town, and there is a good network of bike paths.

See [ edit ]

• Launceston City Park - includes an enclosure housing a large number of Macaque monkeys
• Historic houses and buildings including Macquarie House, Franklin House, Entally House, Clarendon House and the 'Old Umbrella Shop'.
• Tamar Valley - wine-growing area
• National Motor Museum
• -41.42426 146.98816 1 Tasmania Zoo , 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside , ☏ +61 3 6396 6100 . 100 species of animals. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Tamar Island [ edit ]

The Tamar Island Wetlands is a unique urban wetlands reserve 10 minutes' drive from the heart of Launceston in Tasmania's north.

Tamar Island has been Crown Land since settlement and up to the 1980s was leased to private and public operators. In the 1980s the Tasmanian Government purchased the wetlands area around Tamar Island, which was incorporated into the greater Tamar River Conservation Area.

An interpretation centre offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the value of the wetlands, along with a hike that takes you through the wetlands, in bird hides and over to the historic Tamar Island.

Cataract Gorge [ edit ]

Cataract Gorge is 1 km from the centre of Launceston. There is paid parking at the entrance to the park, either all day or by the hour.

• There are many walking tracks which skirt the side of the gorge, and cross it at a suspension bridge and a low level bridge.
• You can swim in the gorge. The water can be quite cold, and there is a current, but with care you should be fine. There are constructed entrances to the water, and access is free. There is also an unheated swimming pool, and access to that is also free.
• You can see the gardens and pergolas , and the peacocks walking around.
• You can play on the playgrounds .
• You can take a chairlift across the gorge, and walk back, or vice-versa, although going both ways on the chairlift is about the same price as a one way ticket.
• There is a cafe on each side of the gorge, serving ice-creams, coffee, snacks, etc.

Do [ edit ]

• Cruise the Tamar River
• Tour the surrounding wineries of the Tamar Valley
• Yoga in the park open classes by local yoga teacher in Launceston parks on weekend mornings. Saturday morning in City Park before the harvest markets and on Sunday mornings in Riverbend Park www.werethee.com.au donation based/bookings not required.
• Launceston Ghost Tour , 14 Brisbane St , ☏ +61 421 819 373 . Starts 8:30PM nightly at the Royal Oak . Fun night walking around one of Australia's oldest cities. Unearth the eerie side of Launceston in the 19th century. Fascinating for history buffs. Bookings required. $24/person or $20 with a voucher from the local hotels .  
• Launceston self-guided walking tour along historic Cameron Street . See Launceston Historical Society's Page for more details.

Buy [ edit ]

• Tasmanian Wool Products: Waverley Woolen Mills, The Sheep's Back (George St)
• The Tasmanian Devil as soft toys, hand-puppets etc
• -41.432399 147.14294 1 Design Centre Tasmania , Cnr Brisbane St and Tamar St, City Park , ☏ +61 3 6331 5506 . Australia's only museum collection of contemporary wood design, they run exhibitions and tours of crafts, design and art, nationally and internationally. A not-for-profit organisation with a mission to support and sustain design.  

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

• -41.4393 147.1367 1 Morty's Food Court , 25 Wellington St , ☏ +61 3 6331 5788 . A small food court with a good variety of dishes (various Asian cuisines and a coffee/wine bar that sells cakes). ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -41.4455 147.1423 2 Aromas Fine Food Cafe , 272 Charles St , ☏ +61 3 6331 4150 . Good coffee and pastries in a quiet and relaxing area. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Fish and Chips at the end of the Wharf, past the end of the flood barrier when walking from town. Possibly the best fish and chips you'll ever have. Prices depending on fish and season.

Mid-range [ edit ]

• -41.4372 147.1369 3 Star of Siam , Paterson St , ☏ +61 3 6331 2786 . Informal, casual Thai with a wooden interior. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -33.8954 151.107 4 La Calabrisella , 56 Wellington St , ☏ +61 3 6331 1958 , [email protected] . W-M 5PM-late . Italian and Mediterranean. Pizza, pastas, salads and pies. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -41.4356 147.1397 5 The Prickly Cactus , 72-74 George St , ☏ +61 3 6334 0584 . Classic Mexican. Famous for their fishbowls and margaritas. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -41.4346 147.1389 6 Frankie's Coffee House ( Franco's ), 42 George St , ☏ +61 3 6331 8648 . Home-style Italian. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -41.4386 147.1399 7 The Metz , 119 St John St , ☏ +61 3 6331 7277 . Casual dining. Pizza and à la carte. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -41.4374 147.1369 8 The Star Bar Cafe , 113 Charles St . Tapas and wood-fired pizzas. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• -41.44 147.1396 9 Bread + Butter Cafe , 70 Elizabeth St , ☏ +61 3 6124 2299 . House made sourdough bread, cultured butter and viennoiserie and cakes, as well as excellent coffee and other café style items made with local produce. This is a breakfast/lunch venues only. ( updated Apr 2024 )
• -41.4288 147.1379 10 Me Wah , 39-41 Invermay Rd , ☏ +61 3 6331 1308 . A Tasmanian spin on Chinese with good seafood. ( updated Apr 2024 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• -41.44035 147.1288 11 Stillwater , 2 Bridge Rd , ☏ +61 3 6331 4153 , [email protected] . Elegant and contemporary Tasmanian. Try the rye waffles. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Brisbane Street Bistro , 24 Brisbane St, Fine dining (including degustation) using local ingredients, modern Australian/French style. They can cater for most dietary requirements with advance notice. Bookings essential regardless.
• The Gorge Restaurant , 74 Gorge Rd , ☏ +61 3 6331 3330 . Indoor and outdoor dining in a beautiful setting. Peacocks roam about. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Quigley's .
• Black Cow .

Drink [ edit ]

Launceston has several "olde worlde" UK style pubs, including The Cock and Bull and Irish Murphy's . In the city centre there are pubs on many of the street intersections.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are many motels, hotels and bed-and-breakfast establishments offering accommodation in the area.

• -41.4419 147.1331 1 Art Hotel on York ( The Old Bakery Inn ), 270-280 York St ( corner of York & Margaret Streets ), ☏ +61 3 6331 7900 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 10AM . 100-year-old converted bakery combined with the neighbouring townhouses from the same era. Rooms are simple but clean and well looked after. Plenty of parking on site. $125/night .  
• The Sebel Launceston , Corner St John & William Streets , ☏ +61 3 6333 7555 , [email protected] . This Launceston hotel is within walking distance to the city centre, Launceston’s seaport and Cataract Gorge.  
• -41.43347 147.14592 2 Waratah on York , 12 York St , ☏ +61 3 6331 3300 , [email protected] . Hotel ( updated Jan 2020 )

Go next [ edit ]

The historic town of George Town and Low Head lighthouse are a one-hour drive to the north along the Tamar River.

• Perth and Longford are historic towns 20 km south via the freeway
• Devonport and Deloraine can make a scenic round trip, following the west Tamar, along the northern coast, and before looping south.
• St Helens is a coastal town on the Eastern Coast.
• Scottsdale lavender farm
• George Town is an historic settlement north on the eastern Tamar.
• Ben Lomond National Park is a skiing/hiking area in northeast Tasmania.

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The complete travel guide to visiting launceston in tasmania.

Tasmania is full of unique places to visit, and Launceston is one of those gems that will surprise you in various ways. It is located in the middle of the island state and is only a two-and-a-half-hour drive from its capital city, Hobart. Launceston is the second major city in Tasmania, with just under 70,000 people. Still, it feels more like a large country town, which gives the city its unique and pleasant character. Launceston was built around the Tamar River in the Tamar Valley and is one of Australia’s oldest cities. The Valley is well known for its divine produce, including wine and dairy products, making it the perfect holiday destination for food lovers! However, that is not all Launceston has to offer. Its prime location makes it incredibly easy to explore some beautiful surroundings, including Cradle Mountain and many more. In this complete travel guide to visiting Launceston, you will find all the information you need so you don’t miss out on anything inside or outside this beautiful city!

How to get to Launceston?

There are multiple ways to get to Launceston, depending on where you are travelling from. As Launceston is located in the heart of Tasmania, an island off the mainland of Australia, you may need to fly or travel here by boat. It is nothing to be concerned about as there are many commercial planes and ships to ensure you get here quickly and safely.

How to get to Launceston from the mainland:

You can take flights to Launceston from most major cities in Australia. Melbourne , Sydney , Adelaide and Brisbane are the easiest to fly from. Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas Link fly to Launceston regularly, giving you an array of options. The flights from Melbourne and Sydney leave every day, with alternating operational days for the Adelaide and Brisbane flights. To book, we recommend using  Skyscanner . Use the search bar below to find the cheapest flights to Launceston.

The Spirit of Tasmania is the passenger boat that operates daily, connecting the mainland with Tasmania and visa versa. While it does not take you straight into Launceston, it is only a one-hour drive from Devonport to Launceston, where the boat will dock. If you were looking at spending an extended period in Tasmania, I would suggest taking the boat and booking your car to take with you. You can choose from the night or daytime sailing, refining your experience even more. To find your fare, follow the link  here .

How to get to Launceston from within Tasmania:

Within Tasmania, there are daily flights from King Island and Flinders Island into Launceston. Moreover, there are flights from Launceston to all these places, so if you have not already visited them, extending your Tasmania stay on these islands is highly recommended! Furthermore, you can also drive to Launceston from anywhere on the mainland of Tasmania. Buses also run across the state, connecting Launceston to the East Coast and Hobart, for example, giving you even more options for transport. Hobart is just over two and a half hours, and Burnie is around an hour and a half.

How to get around in Launceston?

Launceston isn’t the biggest city, and it is easy to get around. Public transport and walking should get you to most places within the town. The public transport in Launceston consists of Metro buses, and you can buy and top up the green cards in pretty much every store. We recommend hiring a car for the side trips as public transport in the north of Tasmania is somewhat limited.

Where to stay in Launceston:

There are plenty of different options available for accommodation in Launceston and its surroundings. If you are looking for budget accommodation, Launceston has two hostels and a Podinn. The two hostels are a bit on the older side but are still suitable for a couple of nights. Furthermore, there are many affordable options for staying in Motels, Hotels and Airbnb. If you are curious about staying in Tasmania’s first and only Pod hotel, check out our experience and a review here.

Where to eat in Launceston?

It is finding the best places to eat while travelling is a must. It is the best way to experience and taste local produce, and there is no doubt that it is on display in Launceston. Having spent around five years living here, I had eaten around the city enough that it needed its own post! To find my favourite restaurants and eateries in Launceston, follow the link.

Amazing places to eat and drink in Launceston

Things to do in Launceston:

Launceston has plenty of things to offer its visitors. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple or a family with children, we will ensure you don’t miss out on the best attractions. Moreover, at the bottom of this list, we will give you some of the best day trips in the area to extend your stay.

Walk to the Cataract Gorge Reserve: 

Start at King’s Park and walk with the river to your right to do a self-guided walk from the CBD into the Cataract Gorge Reserve. You will find a path that leads into the first basin, and that’s how you get into the gorge. Allow about 2 hours for the complete circuit! It is truly unique how close the Cataract Gorge is to the city centre and how it suddenly feels like an entirely different world, totally worth the stunning walk. 

Riverbend Park, Invermay:

You will find the wonderful Riverbend Park in front of Peppers Silos, across the Tamar River. While this park aims to entertain kids, there is something for everyone here! Facilities include basketball courts, a BBQ area, toilets, and multiple play equipment! The park’s most prominent attractions are undoubtedly the Sky Walk and the ‘confluence net’, two of Australia’s most significant play equipment. Even better, the park is entirely free. 

Cataract Gorge swim and chair lift:

Nothing is better than cooling off in the First Basin at the Cataract Gorge during the hot summer days. The First Basin is the best place to swim in the gorge, with restaurants also available for a much-needed snack afterwards. If you prefer a swimming pool, the First Basin pool is open during the warmer months, so it has a swimming option for everyone. When you tire of swimming, catch the chair lift across the basin for the best views of the gorge! It is one of the longest chairlifts in the world and provides the perfect picture-taking spot.

The North Esk River trail:

If you are looking for a relaxing walk next to the river that feels far away from the city, look no further than the North Esk River Trail. I frequented this trail most days while studying in Launceston, which is the perfect environment to wind down. Starting at either Hobblers Bridge or under the bridge on Henry Street. You can complete the trail as an out-and-backtrack or continue onto the path leading away from the Henry Street entrance behind Kmart. This will take you on a long walk along the Tamar towards Seaport.

Alexandra Suspension Bridge:

Located in the Cataract Gorge reserve First Basin, the Alexandra Suspension Bridge is the perfect backdrop for some photos or even a quick walk. As a suspension bridge, you can make it bounce, giving your friends or family an even more enjoyable experience. 

Enjoy some of the surrounding wineries:

The Tamar Valley is home to renowned wineries, including Josef Chromy Wines. Spend an afternoon tasting some of the gorgeous wines with some local cheese.

Watch a game at the UTAS Stadium:

Catch an AFL or AFLW game at UTAS stadium over the other side of the Tamar River. Easy walking distance from the town centre, so you do not have to worry about transport. Be sure to book ahead, as games in Tassie are rare, and you do not want to miss out!

Penny Royal Adventures: 

At only a short distance from the Cataract Gorge Reserve entree, Penny Royal Adventures provides accommodation, dining and a variety of weekend adventures for the entertainment of all ages. The experiences include cliff passing, rock climbing, and cliff walking within the background of a stunning waterfall. Suppose you travel in groups or want to experience all the park offers. In that case, passes are also available, making it easier to share everything! For more information, follow the  link .

Farmer’s market:

Looking to buy some incredible local products and produce? Best to get there early, as parking can be a nightmare sometimes! Visit the Harvest Market, held every Saturday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm at 71 Cimitiere Street. 

Princess Theatre:

See what local production companies have on at the Princess Theatre, the home of the arts in Launceston. There is always something on here, from comedians to plays or musicals. Located in the heart of Launceston, why not grab dinner beforehand and make a night of it?

If you are looking for somewhere to relax for a minute or take the kids for a run-around, then the city park is for you. It is located next to the peanut-round about; it’s only a 5-minute walk from the city’s centre. Play equipment, toilets, picnic tables, Wi-Fi, a cafe and even monkeys! Yes, Launceston has a monkey playground. There is everything you need and more in the Launceston City Park.

Ghost tour:

Australia’s third oldest city has many stories to be heard! You should not miss the Launceston Ghost Tour if you enjoy ghost tours. The tour takes about 90 minutes and takes all over the city.

Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG):

Emerge yourself in some of Tasmania’s rich history, or explore the stars and planets in the Planetarium! If history, natural sciences and art are your things, or you need a relaxing couple of hours, check out the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. It is the largest museum of its kind in Australia, not located in a capital city. Situated on the UTAS Invermay campus, it is a short walk from the town over the bridge. 

James Boag brewery:

Over 160 years ago, James Boag moved from Scotland to Tasmania and started brewing the beer now synonymous with Tasmania. Located in the city’s heart, overlooking the Tamar River, you cannot miss this if you are a true beer lover. Enjoy yourself at the bar or book a tour for $32. 

Tamar Island wetlands:

The Tamer Island Wetlands and interpretation centre is a must-do. It is the perfect spot for a picnic with stunning views across the Tamar River, Valley, and beyond the Ben Lomond Ranges! Walk across the boardwalk to Tamar Island and enjoy all the natural wildlife. 

Day trips out of Launceston.

Lilydale falls.

If hiking and waterfalls sound appealing, take a day trip to Lilydale Falls. Less than 400 meters each way, it is an easy grade 2 hike, so there are no excuses for not doing it! Only a 25-minute drive from Launceston, you will love spending the day here exploring not one but the two waterfalls in reserve.

Ben Lomond National Park

Ben Lomond is a mountain situated in the North East of Tasmania and is the perfect day trip all year round. It is an hour and forty-minute drive out of Launceston, so easily accessible for a day trip. However, a small camping area is also available. The Alpine Plateau is over 1500 meters above sea level, so be prepared in all seasons. Many day walks are available in the park, and this is a snow sports hotspot during winter! You need a National Parks pass, and if you plan to drive up in the winter, you will need chains. 

Cradle Mountain -Lake St Clair National Park

A 2.5-hour drive from Launceston is all it takes to get to one of the most visited Tasmanian attractions! With a diverse range of wildlife, including the infamous Tasmanian Devil, you will hopefully get to see some of Tasmania’s finest out in the wild. Furthermore, plenty of short walks and hikes take you around the park, which is perfect for incredible photos. If you are looking for more of a challenge, the Overland Track is also a great attraction, but only to be undertaken with the proper preparation as it is a multi-day hike.  

Pick your berries are the Hillwood Berry Farm.

A short 20-minute drive from Launceston is the Hillwood Berry Farm, where you can pick your berries! Berries include strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. A berry-themed cafe is also here, so you can enjoy a lovely lunch. Follow the link for more information or to see what’s in season. 

Bridestowe Estate Lavander Farm

Escape to the countryside and immerse yourself in the colour and scent sensation of the Bridestowe Lavander Farm. With pick up and drop off from your hotel, this is the easiest way to escape the city, hassle-free. Furthermore, you do not need your car for this day trip! The farm now includes a shuttle bus from Launceston. Follow the  link  for more information. 

Make the trip to Table Cape Tulip Farm.

If you are looking for a stunning backdrop for some photos or just for a trip to unwind, then you cannot miss the Table Cape Tulip Farm. The farm is open for a short four-week period, from the 25th of September to late October, so make sure you align your dates if it is something you want to see! Tickets cost  $12  for adults and can be purchased from the door.

Did you enjoy this  travel guide ? Please let us know in the comments below! Do you want to start exploring but have questions on how to start? We are  here to help  with all your  travel  needs! For more inspiration, check out our travel  blogs and vlogs  or the  tips & tricks  section. To keep up to date with our adventures and future travel guides, follow us on  Instagram  and  Facebook , or subscribe to our newsletter! Feel free to send us a message through the  contact page ! We can’t build this  platform  without our readers, so we thank you for your continued support. Stay tuned for many more adventures to come! 

Avalon Stones

Hello! I'm Avalon; a serial gap year taker, co-writer and creator here at yentldoggen.com. I fell in love with traveling at a young age, and after too many years of lockdowns, have finally taken off on the road to start my adventures. However, my passions far outreach just travel and adventure; I hope to be able to use my own knowledge and challenges of travel to inspire people to move out of their comfort zone and into the great world to explore, while also learning about each place along the way!

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Things to Do in Launceston (Australia)

15 Best Things to Do in Launceston (Australia)

Tasmania’s northern second city is at the head of the long Tamar River estuary.

Launceston has a few things you don’t come across very often, like an awesome river gorge a stone’s throw from the CBD, and a city park with an island inhabited by macaques.

The Cataract Gorge can be traversed via a record-breaking chairlift, while around the city there’s a lot of architecture harking back to Launceston’s early 19th-century origins.

Launceston can also be a platform to get out into Tasmania’s fabled wilderness, cruising along the Tamar River or journeying to the iconic Cradle Mountain.

1. Cataract Gorge

Not many cities can say they’ve got a majestic gorge only 15 minutes on foot from their CBD.

The first European known to have stumbled upon the Cataract Gorge was early settler William Collins in 1804. Nowadays it’s a fully-fledged tourist attraction, with a swimming pool, chairlift, funicular railway, scenic suspension bridge ,two cafes and the genteel landscaped gardens of Cliff Grounds, roamed by peacocks.

Ambling through bushland you can behold the gorge’s rocky walls and the arena-like bowl of the First Basin from walking tracks and scenic lookouts.

Upstream you’ll come to the old Duck Reach Power Station, which has been turned into an interpretation centre for this one-of-a-kind place.

2. Cataract Gorge Chairlift

Worthy of its own paragraph is the gorge’s chairlift, which is officially the longest single-span chairlift in the world.

This opened in 1972, with a length of 457 metres, and that record-breaking span is 308 metres, uninterrupted by pylons.

What you’ll get are spellbinding vistas of the gorge, South Esk River and the First Basin, with its wooded bowl of hills.

The ride also whisks you through the gorge’s magical landscaped parkland, overflowing with tree rhododendrons and ferns.

The chairlift goes slow to give you all the time you need to take it all in.

3. Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery

Launceston is home to the largest museum in Australia not to be set in a state capital.

This has two locations, at the Royal Park Art Gallery from 1891, and the industry-oriented railway workshop from the 1870s at Inveresk.

At the former, you can peruse art and objects from the colonial era, as well as contemporary design.

An enthralling exhibit at this location is a complete Chinese temple, built in the 1880s by migrant tin miners and replete with artefacts relating to the Chinese community that moved to northeast Tasmania for work.

The Inveresk site is a fun miscellany, showing off the contents of Australia’s oldest merchant shipwreck, dinosaur fossils, historic aircraft, Tasmanian natural history specimens and genuine death masks, and complete with a working planetarium.

4. Boag’s Brewery

This Launceston brewery was founded in 1881 by James Boag 1, a Scottish immigrant who had arrived in Australia some 30 years before.

The last Boag working in the business passed away as recently as 1976. The company is a big employer in Launceston and produces upwards of 80,000,000 litres annually.

As for its beers, Boag Draught has been made since the 1880s, and a few other more recent varieties include the Premium Lager, Premium Light, Strongarm Bitter, Draught Light and a host of limited editions and Tasmanian specific brews.

Tours are available seven days a week and set off from the James Boag Brewery Experience, housed in the old Lake Dog Hotel from 1826. On the 90-minute experience you’ll discover beer’s journey, from hop to bottle, and get to taste three labels from Boag’s range.

5. City Park

As of 2020 Launceston’s main urban park has been around in some form for 200 years.

This was initially a botanical garden for the Launceston Horticultural Society, before being taken over by the city council in the 1860s and adopting the early name, People’s Park.

The charming Park Caretakers Cottage, now the HQ for City Park Radio, is a holdover from the early days, and has wisteria vines that were planted in 1837. This is next to the Eclectic Albert Hall from the 1890s.

City Park retains its historic character, with monuments and amenities like the John Hart Conservatory, the bandstand and the intricate cast iron Jubilee Fountain.

The park is laced with themed gardens and even has a “Monkey Island”, with a colony of macaques separated from the public by a moat and glass screen.

6. Alexandra Suspension Bridge

About ten minutes from the car park at Cataract Gorge you’ll come to this handsome suspension bridge first completed in 1904. The bridge is 67 metres long and reinforced by two steel towers on either side of the gorge.

That first bridge was washed away by floods in 1929 then reconstructed in 1955 and retooled in 2004 to celebrate its centenary.

There are information boards recounting the bridge’s history.

Walking the span, there’s a supreme view along the gorge and over the First Basin to the north.

The way is narrow, but wide enough for two people to pass side-by-side, though you may notice some swaying.

7. Tamar Island Wetlands

On the edge of town, Launceston is blessed with an urban wetland ecosystem made up of islands, lagoons and mudflats.

This is a key habitat for many species of birds, amphibians, mammals, reptiles and invertebrates.

Among the 60 different birds recorded at the wetlands are several duck species, swans, cormorants, swamp harriers, egrets, as well as migrants from the northern hemisphere like the common greenshank.

There’s an interpretation centre detailing the site’s delicate ecology and cultural history, and from there you can set off along the boardwalk where there’s also a bird hide for some bird-spotting.

8. Franklin House

The only historic house museum in Launceston is this convict-built Georgian mansion, now cared for by the Tasmanian National Trust.

Franklin House was commissioned by brewer, inn keeper and former convict Britton Jones in 1838, later becoming a school for boys when it was extended.

An imposing Ionic porch greets you at the entrance, and the interior, filled with period furniture and decorative arts, is noted for its extensive use of imported Australian red cedar.

This became the National Trust’s first property when it was acquired in 1960, and opens for guided tours.

In the grounds there’s a stables, 180-year-old oak tree and a preserved Victorian kitchen garden.

After your tour you can pause for tea and scones at the tearoom.

9. Lilydale Falls

A simple but rewarding excursion from Launceston, Lilydale Falls is on the Second River in the countryside to the north of the city.

There are actually two waterfalls in the reserve, tumbling into mossy, fern-wreathed pools and accessed via stairs and viewing platforms.

The lower waterfall is the taller of the pair, at just shy of ten metres, while a trail will lead you up to the second one, at around five metres tall.

Both continue to flow in years with low rainfall, and are made more picturesque by their lush wooded surroundings.

The hike will take under an hour and can be done by families, while the reserve is equipped with barbecue facilities and a children’s playground.

10. National Automobile Museum of Tasmania

At a new location since September 2019, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania first opened in 1987 by renowned racing car engineer Geoff Smedley and his partner Sylvia.

From an E-Type Jaguar to a whole fleet of motorcycles, the museum’s collection spans more than a century, and accompanies each exhibit with a helpful informative plaque.

The star of the show is the Hall of Muscle, devoted entirely to the Australian muscle car.

Some of the standouts here are a 1967 Ford Falcon XR GT, a 1969 Holden HT 350 Monaro, a 1973 Valiant Charger and a 1974 Holden Torana L34.

11. Josef Chromy Wines

Tasmania was one of the first places in Australia to be planted with vines in the early 19th century.

The temperate oceanic climate supports cool-climate varieties like Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Merlot and Chardonnay.

Since the 2000s Tasmanian wine has unexpectedly benefitted from climate change, with longer summers allowing the fruit to ripen fully.

For an intro to the island’s wine industry, the Josef Chromy Wines estate is in the bucolic countryside southeast of Launceston.

The cellar door (tasting room) is housed in an 1880s homestead where you can try all of the varietals listed above.

This is open seven days, and a tasting session costs $5pp, which will be refunded with a purchase.

12. Tamar River Trips

Beginning at Launceston, the longest navigable river estuary in Australia snakes off towards the Bass Strait for 70 kilometres.

The best way to discover the estuary is on the water, and Tamar River Cruises has a wide choice of voyages departing from the Home Point Terminal, a short hop from Launceston’s CBD.

If you’re up for a whistle-stop tour of the Cataract Gorge there are departures throughout the day.

You could also set sail on a four-hour round trip to the Batman Bridge, some 30 kilometres down river, floating gently past the valley’s vineyards and old homesteads, to a landmarks cable-stayed bridge from 1966.

13. Penny Royal Adventures

The rocky walls of the Cataract Gorge set the scene for an activity centre that gives a taste of life in 19th-century’s Van Diemen’s Land.

The headline activity at Penny Royal Adventures is the cliff walk, in which you’ll shuffle along a dozen rope bridges and zoom across zip lines.

There’s also rock climbing and a 20-metre cliff jump on the course.

Elsewhere, kids can take the wheel on a brig cruise, and prospect for gold and gemstones, while the Matthew Brody Dark Ride introduces you to an escaped convict and pirate from the 1820s.

Finally, the Barefoot Sensation trail guides you over mud, bark, sawdust, sand, gravel, stepping stones, tea tree branches and more.

14. Cradle Mountain Day Trip

Launceston is in a handy position if you want to see more of Tasmania’s stupendous landscapes.

One image that is often associated with the island is the craggy ridge of Cradle Mountain in the Central Highlands.

This has all been protected by the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park for a century, and from Launceston you can spend a day revelling in the natural scenery.

Available through online tour platform GetYourGuide.com , the Cradle Mountain Day Trip entails a hike around the Dove Lake, at the foot of the peak, as well as a nature walk in rainforest, a stop to see the town’s of Sheffield’s famous murals and visits to local producers like the Ashgrove Cheese Farm.

15. Launceston Community Farmers’ Market

A nationally recognised farmers’ market trades in the shadow of Albert Hall every Saturday morning.

If you care about where your food comes from, this is a chance to meet the farmers and producers, who will vouch for their wares and tell you how to get the most from it.

A lot of the traders here are highly specialised, selling asparagus, cherries, hazelnuts, berries, mushrooms, olives or peonies, and little else.

Among the myriad other stalls you’ll find eggs, truffles, cheese, cider, fresh sourdough, seafood, coffee, ethically raised meat, honey, beer, kimchi, cider, and much more than we can fit on a list.

And for food on to go you can choose from crêpes, paella, gelato, Afghan bolani, vegan treats or Korean pancakes (hotteok).

15 Best Things to Do in Launceston (Australia):

• Cataract Gorge
• Cataract Gorge Chairlift
• Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
• Boag's Brewery
• Alexandra Suspension Bridge
• Tamar Island Wetlands
• Franklin House
• Lilydale Falls
• National Automobile Museum of Tasmania
• Josef Chromy Wines
• Tamar River Trips
• Penny Royal Adventures
• Cradle Mountain Day Trip
• Launceston Community Farmers' Market

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