The best 13 One Day Itineraries for Around Launceston

If were to only have one day in Launceston and you wish to get the most from your visit. Follow one of our top, one day itineraries around Launceston.

Launceston the second main city of Australia’s island state in Tasmania. Our best one day itineraries around Launceston only scratch the surface of what is on offer in Tasmania. If you are unsure whether to fly or catch the ferry (float), we can help, you can decide.

Many of our ‘one day itineraries around Launceston’ suggestions, can be mixed to suit your personal tastes. Alternatively, if travelling further, some of these one day itineraries around Launceston can can be the start of your adventure.

For example, a visit to Evandale and Clarendon or Brickendon-Woolmers can be the start of your day trip south to Hobart. The drive between Launceston and Hobart can be a day trip alone, stopping at four historical towns on the way.

Additionally, one of our one day itineraries around Launceston, offers you a taste for the  start of a west coast adventure.

We regularly stay in Launceston CBD & our travel style runs from comfort to luxury. If you are looking for best luxury accommodation in Launceston, stay tuned for our Best Luxury Hotels to Stay in Launceston.

*Disclosure: We may have affiliate links with one or more of these companies mentioned & may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosures for further information.

Preview – 13 best one day itineraries around Launceston

Our preview briefly highlights what you will discover in our 13 best one day itineraries around Launceston. These itineraries have been developed so you can do one in its entirety or blend one or two. Alternatively, you could be daring, use them to start creating your perfect itinerary, and our Travel Checklists will help keep you on track for your trip.

  1. City Walks – promenade around the park, visit a design studio or take a historical walk in Launceston’s CBD.
  2. A day of Art – visit one of the traditional or ecclectic galleries, paintings, glass, ceramics or repurposed.
  3. Meet you at the Museum – the museum offers a glimpse into early life, natural history and the stars with its selection of exhibits.
  4. Cataract Gorge & Duck Reach Power Station – take one of the walks & wander around the gorge, or relax on one of the reserves, enjoying natures splendour.
  5. A Day around the Tamar River – embark on one of the Tamar River cruises or glimpse the eclectic collection of motor transport at the car museum.
  6. Penny Royal – Tasmania Zoopartake in a adventure, walk or climb the wall, before visiting Tasmania Zoo, for  an animal encounter.
  7. Frankin House – Relbia Vineyards – explore the 1838 convict-built home & gardens, before visiting a selection of wineries.
  1. Tamar River Region – taste some wine, cider or gin, or wander around the wetlands area, just minutes from the city.
  2. Beaconsfield – Beauty Point – discover the goldmine history, before encounter seahorses, platypi, echidnas & more.
  3. Across the Batman Bridge – good food, sparkling wine, relaxing beach, two golf courses, gateway to Flinders Island, delightful craft beer and spirits, waterfalls and more.
  4. Evandale – Clarendon House – a charming village with little town, & fine Georgian Style home of 1838.
  5. Brickendon – Woolmers – two properties forming one site recognised as an Australia Convict World Heritage Site.
  6. Start your West Tasmania Journey – full of, natural splendours, history mazes, waterfalls & more.

Other articles that may help you plan your trip to Tasmania

Images of City Park and Design Tasmania one of the walks from 13 one day itineraries around Launceston
Images from one of the walks and Boags Brewery

City Walks

Start your Launceston adventure, wandering around the history rich streets. You will find an abundance on offer a definite inclusion to a must do one day itineraries around Launceston.

Any of our one day itineraries around Launceston can be mixed to fill your day, whether it’s a historic walk, a museum, art gallery or more.

City Park Launceston and Design Tasmania

The original allotment (1807) was for Government Cottage, (removed due to disrepair in 1885). Once known as the Peoples Park, a map offers a glimpse of the old park paths, positioning of monuments and significant structures. Additionally, the park has been known to house animals since 1850, and was once home to over 40 Tasmanian Tigers.

The current animal inhabitants are Japanese Macaques, gifted to Launceston by its sister city Ikeda City in Japan. Enjoy a picnic in the park, being close to Launceston’s Harvest Market, which operates every Saturday Morning between 08:30 and 12:30. Where you can taste and buy local produce directly from the producers, to snack on during your one day itineraries around Launceston. 

Design Tasmania is housed in the heritage listed Price Hall (1885) building, incorporating Gary Cleveland Galleries and Claudio Alcorso Courtyard. Founded in 1976, by Gary and Pat Cleveland, it is home to the evolving collection of Design Tasmania Wood Collection. In addition, Design Tasmania, is home to many permanent and visiting exhibits in a variety of mediums.

James Boag Brewery

James Boag I – moved to Tasmania, in 1853 to take over as brewer and manager of the Cornwall Brewery (Est.1829) in Launceston. James Boag I and II took over the Esk Brewery (founded 1881) in 1883, when James Boag & Son was officially formed. Later purchasing the Cornwall Brewery and incorporating both businesses (1898).

Occupying in the same buildings and area as the original brewery. The Tamar Hotel (now James Boag Brewery Bar), offers a collection of historical memorabilia from James Boag & Sons brewery. In addition to a bar, tours and lunch is available. 

Open from 11:00 Tuesday to Sunday, with tours are available, Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00am, 1:00pm & 3:00pm. $15-32AUD 90 min tour
Monday – Tuesday: Private tours available by request.

From Albert to Victoria Historical Walk – Map

This walk is a great wander highlighting several buildings that hold historical significance. From the Albert Hall at City Park along Cameron Street to the Queen Victoria Art Gallery. 

The Crown Mill, the first electrically powered flour in in Australia. The former Cornwall Hotel now the Batman Fawkner Inn, where John Fawkner planned his famous expedition, that led to the founding of Melbourne. The Mills building overlooking the Trinity Church, built in 1882. The old Northern Club once the short lived Launceston Club 1841-1842. Now houses offices, a mexican restaurant and bar.

Meander down to the Post Office, Town Hall and Mechanics Buidling in Civic Square all built in the late 1800’s. Crossing Charles Street, you discover some well maintained examples of 19th Century architecture, in particular the beautiful Middlesex and Esk View Terrace houses.

The end of the walk sees you directly opposite the Queen Victoria Art Gallery that showcases a selection of permanent and touring exhibitions. One of my favourite one day itineraries around Launceston.

Images from one of the Albert Hall to QVB Art Gallery
Images of Walk in Launceston

A Day of Art

Launceston is home to both private and public art galleries. All in close proximity to each other using a variety of mediums, assuring you have something different to view in each. Whether you visit one or all there is an abundance on offer and are definitely must do one day itineraries around Launceston.

Queen Victoria Art Gallery

The QVAG, offers a free glimpse at an eclectic art collection, from classic paintings, abstract landscapes, modern art using leather this gallery has something for everyone.  Open Daily between 10:00 – 16:00, free entry.

Discover the history and culture of the first Tasmanians. Their diverse cultural groups, spread across the island, craft, architecture and more. This is a must see exhibit for all that visit. Other exhibits include the Guan Di Temple, offering a unique view of the Chinese religious practice throughout the late 1800’s.

More information on current and upcoming exhibitions is available at the Art Gallery at Royal Park a map is also of the gallery is also available.

Gallery Pejean

This contemporary studio is in the centre of the George Street precinct of Launcestons CBD open Wed-Sat at 11:00, with varying closing times. Surrounded by cafe’s and restaurants, this gallery specialises in showcasing Tasmanian artists, covering a broad spectrum of mediums.

Glass Manifesto

This glass studio is a must see gallery, based at Kings Wharf, in Invermay, the studio is open Wed-Sun 10:00-16:00. Both Peter Bowles and Anne Clifton are internationally recognised artists that have exhibited across the globe.

The work they produce at the studio is divine, from scent bottles, vases, bowls, or sculptures. You will be delighted with what Glass Manifesto has to offer.

Queen Victoria Museum, Planetarium, Blacksmiths Shop and Tramway Museum  

Launceston’s Queen Victoria Museum is housed on the site of the old railway workshops that had been servicing engines from the late 1800’s, closing in 1994 when the new workshop was built. This area will keep the whole family entertained, earning it a place in our 13 best one day itineraries around Launceston.

The museum hosts a number of permanent and touring exhibits. Featuring such exhibits as the centenary celebration of the Northern Branch of the Royal Society of Tasmania, third oldest society of the Commonwealth.

The permanent display of Tasmanian Collections exhibits artefacts from the colonial and bushranger era, historical transport vehicles, geological timelines, animals and dinosaurs. Other exhibits include a beautiful display of late 1800’s pottery, exhibits of Tasmania Astronomy, historical remnants of the first railway line established between Launceston and Deloraine in 1868.

The Phenomena factory amuses child and adult alike (I know this from experience), with the rotating perception tunnel, mirror walls, talking vases to name a few activities. With special activities in school holidays and the Tasmanian Connections kids trail. The outside phenomena factory lets everyone explore the science of music.

The Blacksmiths Shop, housed in the original buildings built between 1909-1937. Where a series of walkways takes you around the workshop. Wandering around you will observe many of the tools used to repair and maintain the railways and trains still present, including some dating back to the early 1900’s.

Planetarium, a space where you can learn about space and gaze at the stars. With 15 different shows, with topics on Black Holes, The Birth of Planet Earth Our Living Climate and more. There are two sessions daily with one of the 15 shows, a calendar is available for you to select your session of choice.

The Planetarium is open Tues to Sun and Mon during school holidays. However, they are closed on public holidays.

Tramway Museum, located across from the Queen Victoria Museum in the original workshop of Launceston Municipal Tramways.

You will discover fascinating tales and footage of Launceston’s oldest surviving movie. Children small and large can participate in an interactive area and take a ride on a 1940’s tram complete with conductor to stub your ticket.

Cataract Gorge & Duck Reach Power Station  

Cataract Gorge or ‘The Gorge’ as commonly referred to by locals is an absolutely stunning area to spend the day, especially for those days when you just need to rest, renew and refocus. It’s a great addition to our best one day itineraries around Launceston.

Discovered in the early 1800’s by settler William Collins, he described the area as having unsurpassed beauty. In my opinion not much has changed regarding the beauty. You can witness this beauty for yourself with a walk to The Gorge from Launceston city.

Caution: at times of flooding you are unable to pass over the causeway into First Basin. Additionally, the suspension bridge and scenic chairlift may also be closed.

Additions over the years include, a suspension bridge across the South Esk River in 1940. The scenic chairlift built in 1972, and is boasted as being one of the longest in the world. Approximately 457 metres (1462 feet) from station to station. 

The Chairlift is operates daily from 09:00 Closing hours varying throughout the year:

  • Winter at 16:30
  • Spring and Autumn 17:00
  • Summer 17:30-18:00

Wander the Cliff Grounds Reserve, spot a peacock or six, or have a bite to eat at the Gorge restaurant or kiosk. First Basin,  offers a swimming pool, playground and café for snacks and lunch, with spectacular views across the river. 

Access First Basin via an inclinator, with enclosed compartment based at the top entrance, for those with mobility challenges. 

This is one of my favourite, one day itineraries around Launceston. Still looking for more, explore Duck Reach Station and Deadmans Hollow lookout. 

Duck Reach Power Station 

Built in the late 1800’s, the power station at Duck Reach, generated hydro-electricity to Launceston for almost 60 continuous years.  The area was chosen to prevent damage from flooding due to heavy rainfall that rushes down in the Cataract Gorge. 

A trip to the station can be done via the Duck Reach Power Station Carpark a short walk (10mins). Alternatively, you can walk in from First Basin, a 90min walk (return), considered a Grade three walk, with rough tracks and many steps. 

You can visit the station between 09:00-17:00 daily, with an the interpretation centre on site. 

Deadmans Hollow 

A trip to Deadmans Hollow will uncover, an abundance of walking, cycling, and  horse trails. In addition to a spectacular view from the lookout along the South Esk River and some beautiful scenic landscapes, this area is well worth a visit, to slow down and ‘Just Breathe’. This lookout is approx. 20 min drive from Launceston, if you aren’t exploring from The Gorge or Duck Reach Station. The gates to the park and lookout at locked at sunset. 

    Images of the Gorge in Launceston

    If you don’t have all day but would like to view this spectacular natural area. You can view the Gorge from below on a 50min cruise that brings you up the South Esk river exploring Launceston’s Seaport area on board a replica of the Lady Launceston. Where you will be treated to a historical and local commentary of the area.

    A Day around the Tamar River

    The Tamar River is the main estuary in the Launceston CBD, that has much to offer on land and water. Here we offer a sample of some of the activities that can be included in our favourite one day itineraries around Launceston.

    Tamar River Cruises

    Located at their home point in the Seaport precinct, this family run business offers a variety of cruises on a daily basis. In addition to the 50min cruise to view Cataract Gorge.

    Morning/Afternoon Cruise

    You can board the Tamar Odyssey for a morning or afternoon cruise exploring both the Tamar river and Cataract Gorge. During the course of your 2.5 hr cruise, you will be treated to a historical commentary of the Tamar River. Sights will include some houses and property of historical value, vineyards, and various wetland wildlife sanctuaries

      Batman Bridge Lunch Cruise

      If you’d like a more  premium cruise you can choose the 40km estuary experience to the Batman Bridge a notable structure. Relaxing and viewing the natural delights of the river, also including a historical commentary of the area. Enjoying the delights of a light lunch, in addition to refreshments of tea coffee, beer and wine tastings, a selection of Tasmania cheese and a selection of fresh fruits.

      Operating Times for all Cruises

      National Automotive Museum of Tasmania

      Established in 1987 by internationally renowned motor racing engineer Geoff Smedly and his wife. Having restored some of the worlds finest cars, once carried out whilst museum visitors watch on.

      The museum is now at the Seaport/Riverbend area, offering a variety of displays, current themes can be viewed here. There are some intriguing vehicles on display, and it’s a delightful look into the past and a pleasant way to finish on of the one day itineraries around Launceston.

      Additionally, events are often held in the front car park of the museum, of various types of motor vehicles, here you can keep abreast of upcoming events.

      Open 7 days (09:00-5:00 – Summer, 10:00-16:00 Winter) – Free Parking and Entry fee is required.

      Images of the Tamar River
      Images of Cars at the National Car Museum Launceston

      Penny Royal & Tasmania Zoo

      A visit to Penny Royal or the Zoo are a pleasant diversion and unique way to spend the day, it’s one of the one day itineraries around Launceston that we always enjoy.

      Penny Royal

      Penny Royal originally started in the early 1970’s, with a pile of convict bricks bought by a local developer. Opening in 1979, where the old mill was recreated at the old quarry area in Launceston, which became their new home.  The site offered short boat rides, informative sessions on making gun powder, barge rides to name a few, operating until the early 2000’s.

      The site re-opened in 2016 offering a new modern area. Where you can enjoy a variety of activities, rock climbing, cliff walks, fossick for gold or gemstones, take a cruise on the Brig Tamar and visit the Sarah Island ghosts. Alternatively, take your shoes off and explore the barefoot sensation, experience a convict adventure trail walking over different terrains and obstacles.  

      Brady’s Takeaway & Adventures Open: 09:30-16:00 Sat-Sun (open during the week in school holidays)

      Alida Restaurant and Wine Bar Open: 12:00-14:00 & 17:00-20:00 (Daily)

      Images of the Penny Royal and surrounds in Launceston

      Tasmania Zoo

      This is more than just a zoo, known as a conservation park and home to several species listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Playing an active role in the education and connection of people, active in breeding programs, rescue, rehabilitation and research.

      The zoo has also been active and successful over the past 10 years in the conservation and breeding of the Tasmanian Devil. A native animal stricken with a rare facial tumour.

      With over 100 species of animals and birds, get up close and personal with one of the animal encounters on offer. Alternatively, visit the Jurassic swamp home to over 40 life size dinosaur examples.

      Wander around the zoo at your leisure, have a picnic listen to one of the keepers talks or visit during feeding hours.

      Open Daily – 10:00-16:00 except Christmas Day

      Franklin House & Relbia Area

      Franklin House

      Franklin house is well worth an inclusion in the one day itineraries around Launceston. As the only historic house, museum just minutes from the CBD. This Georgian style house was convict built in 1838, which went on to become one of the leading private schools of the colony between 1842-1866. The National Trust in Tasmania was originally formed in 1960, to acquire Franklin House.

      The house is open for self-guided tours where you can explore this hidden gem. Discovering the historical treasures that fill the house filled with, before venturing into the beautiful gardens and discover a glimpse of an era past. It’s recommended to contact the property prior to visiting on 6344 7824.

      Open: Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00, Sat-Sun 12:00-16:00.

      A short drive from Franklin House you will discover the Relbia Vineyards, which we’ve included in the Best Tamar Valley Wineries.

      To fill your afternoon of this or any of the one day itineraries around Launceston. We offer a trip to a couple of the distilleries in the area as a suggestion.

      Corra Linn Distillery is in the Relbia area, the distillery has an amazing outlook over the beautiful North Esk river. Using locally sourced ingredients to create their small batch  productions. Stored in barrels charred to the distilleries specifications. This whisky is a delight to taste, having sweet notes and a hint of spice at the end.

      Whilst you are able to try this whisky at Harvest Markets every X Saturday 08:30-12:30. Tours of the distillery are by appointment only, please contact John beforehand.

      Launceston Distillery can be found by travelling along Evandale Road just past the airport. You will discover the distillery at Hanger 17, near QANTAS freight. A visit to this distillery is not your regular distillery tour. You will learn some history about the site and it’s role in Tasmanian aviation development.

      In addition to taking a tour of the distillery, learning about their process from mashing to fermentation all whilst enjoying a sample of their fine whisky. You can also take a tour of the distillery, open Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00 or by appointment on the weekend.

      Adams Distillery, started from a trip to Scotland, an idea for a ‘hobby’ and two old friends meeting over burgers and bourbon (of all things). Their distillery not on produces award winning whiskies using a unique malting  process. The gin produced at this distillery is exceptional, one of which incorporates two other fine examples of Tasmanian produce, blueberries and lavender.

      Tastings are available at the visitors centre 11:00-16:00 Wed-Thur and 11:00-17:00 Fri-Sun. Tour’s are not currently being offered but will be back later this year.

      Alternatively, you can have one of The Tasmanian Whisky Experiences full or half day trips from Launceston. These include two distilleries and a cooperage tour (with or without lunch).

      Images of Franklin House and Distilleries around Launceston

      Tamar River Region

      A trip to Tasmania’s north would be incomplete without visiting a winery, cider house or distillery. That said, to do the area justice you need more than just a day and why we have  highlighted the area in the Best Tamar Valley Wineries.

      However, the area is still a definite, to include in our one day itineraries around Launceston. As you travel along the Tamar River you will discover that whilst there’s an abundance of wineries on offer there is more…

      A wander around the boardwalk of the Tamar Island Wetland as part of any of these one day itineraries around Launceston. This unique estaurine environment offers a glimpse at a diverse ecosytem, abundant in plant and animal life.

      Turner Stillhouse

      A visit to, is an experience in itself. From the Be-Gin sign as you enter to the tasting area overlooking the distillery and river. Here you can sample one of the three small batch gins made on site or take a tour and view the unique still at the distillery.

      The Three Cuts Gin gets it’s name from each batch having three cuts of rose included in it. Each of the gins offer a there own unique flavour, with the distillers release and the barrel rested being our favourites. If I am honest we are patiently awaiting the whisky to come from this distillery.

      Upon leaving the distillery you can choose to turn left towards Grindewald a delightful small Swiss style village, not to be missed. Built by a developer whose wife had fallen in love with the Swiss village it is named for.

      Or right continuing along the river, where just around the bend, you will discover Brady’s Lookout, offering stunning views of the Tamar River. Named for Mathew Brady, a notable Tasmanian bushranger who used the area as a hideout. Known for his deference to woman and his audacious post of reward for Lieutenant Governor Sir George Arthur offering twenty gallons of rum.

      Bradys Lookout Cider

      Whilst the lookout is spectacular overlooking the Tamar River so is the cider, bearing it’s name. Follow the signs you will discover ‘The Dales’, the property responsible for this delightful cider. With it’s sustainable cider mill and over 85 heritage apple trees. Using the Méthode Traditionelle to create their unique cider.

      As a working farm cellar door hours are limited, you can have a tasting at Harvest Market, open Saturday morning 08:30-12:30 or by appointment at the cellar door Saturday afternoon. Alternatively visit the cellar door Sun 11:00-16:00

      As you can see this area offers other diversions than just the vineyards (not that they aren’t impressive in themselves) one day may just not be enough. Why not stay a bit longer and make it two one day itineraries around Launceston.

      Beyond the guide for the 13 Best One Day Itineraries Around Launceston

      Our next suggested, must do one day itineraries around Launceston, are places to visit near launceston. The closest being 20 mins by car. Whilst these have been design as stand alone one day itineraries around Launceston and beyond. It is possible to stay overnight and extend your visit to the area. Alternatively, these itineraries can be used as a building block, for travelling further around the state.

      These one day itineraries are designed to be lazy day trips, allowing you to stop & start as you please. As an example you can pick & choose those things that you wish to do & leave the rest. Even if you don’t have a car or just don’t want to drive. You can still do one of these day tours contact the lovely people at Prestige tours or ???. They will, take you on one of our must do itineraries around Launceston or you can put together one of your own. 

      Beaconsfield – Beauty Point

      Venturing past the Tamar River vineyards, you discovery the road to Beaconsfield where you can learn about gold mining in Tasmania. Further north, at Beauty Point to explore two attractions that feature seahorses, seadragon and monotremes of Australia. These certainly make it on the list of one day itineraries around Launceston.

      Beaconsfield 

      Gold was first discovered at Beaconsfield in 1847, though mining of the area did not begin in earnest until the late 1870’s. Due to regular flooding of the shafts the mine closed in 1914, re-opening in 1999, in 2006 the mine collapsed caused by a small earthquake. The mine officially closed in 2012.

      The Heritage Centre for Beaconsfield mine, offers an informative look at the history of the mine and families that lived and worked there. View one of the many exhibitions, including interactive displays, explore the red brick mine buildings and the mine rescue exhibition representing the story of the rescue in 2006.

      Take the Walk of Gold, where you will be introduced to the history through town buildings. Whilst walking, treat yourself to a delicious snack or light meal at one of the cafes or bakery.

      Heritage Centre Open Daily: 10:00-16:00 (Except Christmas and Good Friday)

      Beauty Point 

      First established as the nearest port that serviced the gold mine of Beaconsfield. It now stands as the first point of the Australian Three Peaks Race. It is also home to Seahorse World and Platypus House.

      Seahorse World

      A working seahorse farm and education centre, where you can take a 45 minute tour. Learning about seahorses and seadragons, seeing behind the scenes of the farm and the life stages of the seahorse. A touch pool is available, with the opportunity to pet a seahorse or one of the other ocean creatures available. The aquarium also offers a glimpse of some mystical and bizarre creature such as the Spotted Handfish.

      Open: 09:00-16:30 Daily (except Christmas Day)

      Tours Operate:

      • December to April 09:30-16:00 (16:30 tours in peak times or if booked)
      • May to November 10:00-15:00 (16:00 tour if booked in advance)

      Platypus House

      Established to raise awareness, education and advance scientific knowledge of the monotremes. Your entry includes a tour where your guide will impart a wealth of knowledge about these delightful creatures. Visit the interpretation room or watch an informative video of these creatures in the wild during your visit.

      You will witness their habitats seeing these delightful creatures during feeding time. Venture around the pools of the platypus and get up close to one of the echidnas in the garden as they forage at your feet.

      Open: Daily 10:00-15:30 (except Christmas Day)

      Images of Beaconsfield and Beauty Point

      Across the Batman Bridge

      Venture across the Batman Bridge to start one of our one day itineraries around Launceston in the day. Alternatively begin your journey further into the North East Area of Tasmania. Visit one of Australia’s oldest pilot stations, be delighted watching Penguins as the return at dusk. Uncover more of the Best Tamar Valley Vineyards. Only 50-60 mins from not one but two world class golf courses. Alternatively, venture east to mountain bike trails, waterfalls and a floating sauna.

      Low Head 

      The pilot station at Low head has the oldest collection of pilot buidings in Australia, dating back to the early 1800’s. The station still in operation, with pilot services currently available at the site. The pilot services to the Tamar River date back to 1806, as the new settlers started moving towards Launceston.

      You can visit the pilot station museum located in the historic convict built, Pilots’ Row.

      Museum Open daily: 10:00-16:00 (except Christmas). You are also able to stay in a cottage onsite and they have a great cafe.

      Whilst at Low Head, other activities for you include:

      • A walk to the Lighthouse the third oldest in Australia, established in 1833.
      • Have a Penguin experience, watch the little Blue Penguins come ashore at dusk.
      • Investigate the new Mountain Bike Tracks

      Whilst this is a great inclusion for our best one day itineraries around Launceston. It is also a great place where you can continue your journey further north and to the east of the state.

      Heading North

      As you head north east towards Bridport you will pass Lulworth a small Tasmanian town not to be missed. As well as, more of the best wineries of the Tamar Valley, in particular some of the top Australian Sparkling Wines along the road.

      Bridport

      This picturesque coastal town with it’s beautiful coastal foreshore walk, tells the history dating back to the early mid-late 1800’s. Whilst here stop at the Bridport Distilling Company choosing one of the platters on offer, a cocktail or a nip the unique gin created here. A wonderful place to stop and just take a breath. You will also find a small airport in a fiels that is the gateway to Flinders Island.

      Alternatively, you can have a round of golf at one of the world renowned golf courses situated here, or relax at the spa, sip sparkling and watch the golfers go by, which is always my choice.

      Derby

      Whilst now known for the internationally acclaimed Mountain bike trails, the floating sauna gaining the reputation as a must do activity. A waterfall circuit and dare I say the best Pizza in the state (bold call I know). It was also home to the old Briseis Tin Mine site. Learn at the interpretation centre about the history of what was, once one of the richest tin mines in the world, along with the tragedy that befell it and the inhabitants of Derby.

      From Derby you can continue east to begin your journey along the East Coast of the state where you will discover more beautiful natural landscapes, coastal towns, wineries and distillers.

      Image os Bradys Lookout-Bridport-Derby

      Evandale Area & Clarendon

      A short 20min drive from Launceston, will bring you to the picturesque village of Evandale. A further 10mins past Evandale you will discover, Clarendon House one of Australia’s great examples of a Georgian style country mansion is a further 10 mins away. One of our one day itineraries around Launceston, that combines charm and history.

      Evandale

      A National Trust classified Georgian Village this charming little village is filled with historic significance and well-preserved heritage buildings. Stop by the visitors centre open 7 days 10:00-16:00 and pick up a Heritage Walk Booklet, to take a self-guided tour around the village.

      Inspiration for John Glover, celebrated Australian landscape artist and home to the annual Glover Art Prize, held in early March. In addition to being the home of the National Penny Farthing Championships, held the last Saturday of February a sight to see for young and old.

      The championships are held in conjunction to the annual village fair, where you can get dressed up in colonial costume, try some tasty food from a stall, see vintage cars, there are activities for the children, and live entertainment. It’s a delight to include this stop in our one day itineraries around Launceston.

      Clarendon House

      Built on the banks of the South Esk River, Clarendon is one of Australia’s grandest historic rural properties. The Georgian home with Italianate facade, contains a servants quarters. In addition to several farm buildings, a parkland and includes an extensive walled garden. The home was built in 1838, by convict labour for James Cox. Who went on to be instrumental in the abolition  of transportation and convict labour.

      Several unique collections can be found at Clarendon, including a Fashion Collection with precious gowns from the 1830’s to 1960’s.  A delightful, table dolls-house, scrapbooks from the 1850’s, a significant carriage collection and originals by John Glover. It is also home to the Norfolk Plains Heritage Centre and Australian Fly Fishing Museum (special entry can be arranged by calling Clarendon (03) 6398 6220)

      Open: 10:00-16:00 – Sat-Sun (bookings preferred)

      Note: The Estate is closed July, August, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day, Good Friday, Australia Day and for major events or private hire.

      Images of Clarendon Estate

      Brickendon & Woolmers Estate

      These two estates combined, make up one of the of eleven historic sites that form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2010.

      Whilst visiting these estates, as one of our one day itineraries around Launceston. Experience the Brickendon and Woolmers Convict Farm walk, an easy 2.8km. Taking the route between the properties that was regularly traversed by the convicts of both estates in the early 1820’s and 1830’s.

      Woolmers Estate

      Built in 1817, the estate once home to the same family for over 180 yrs. It’s reflects an excellent example of colonial life, providing insight into the varying class systems that existed. The estate, the size of a small village, consisting of cottages, a bake house and stables among structures spread around the main house. In addition to having the World Heritage, National Rose Garden, laid out in a classic 19th century symmetrical design.

      Open for self guided or fully guided tour around the house and grounds. Several events throughout the year are featured on the estate, including the National Rose Show. You will find the Homage Restaurant open during,  opening hours.

      Accommodation is available in six of the cottages, with modern conveniences, whilst retaining the early to mid 1800’s cottage charm.

      Open: 10:00-15:30 – Wed-Sun (except major public holidays)

      Brickendon

      The original land (465ha/1150acres) was granted in 1824, where farming was and still is it’s main purpose. Main crops off wheat, corn, barley, flax and linseed. Much of the manual labour at the farm was performed by convicts, spending their days digging drains, trenches, feeding animals and in domestic service.

      During a visit to Brickendon, explore the farm village, where you will see many of the buildings still standing. The cookhouse being a main building where convicts gathered for meals, in addition to the blacksmiths shop and more. Visit the Convict Interpretation centre will give visitors further information on the convict assignment system.

      Accommodation is available staying in one of three convict built cottages, or one of the farm cottages available on this World Heritage site.

      Open: 10:00-16:00 (last entry 15:30pm) Tues-Sun

      Note: Accommodation guests are welcome any day and have unlimited access to the Farm Village and Gardens

      Brickendon Images
      Woolmers Estate images

      Start of the West Tasmania Journey

      A day filled with a bit of history, mazes, wine, maybe a little gin or whisky and a possible waterfall what a perfect way to spend a day. I have to say, we think so and why this journey is in our one day itineraries around Launceston. Depending on how much or little you want to do it can be a start to your journey to Western Tasmania.

      Hadspen – Hagley

      A delightful inclusion for the one day itineraries around Launceston, is self guided tour of Entally Estate, a historic house museum, just under 15 mins from Launceston.  Established in 1819 the house and estate has grown over the last 200+ years. A cost entry allows you access to the house museum, gardens, surrounding buildings and grounds for. Visit the tea room (10:30-14:30) on the estate and enjoy a Devonshire tea or wine tasting from the estates own vineyard, first established 1855 when vines were introduced to the property.

      The estate hosts two Garden Festivals each year February and November. In addition to seeing a stunning array of flowers, the Farmyard is filled with stalls including plants, food, garden ornaments and more.

      Open: 10:00-16:00 – Wed-Sun Closed Public Holidays and June 1st – September 1st for annual site maintenance

      Just 5 mins away you will come into Hagley, a small village town, that has a rich history with Quamby Estate, a stately home. Additionally, just off the highway to the right is where Rupertswood Farm hosts a Maize Maze 5 weeks of the year between Feb-Mar. Alternatively you can venture right and have a delightful lunch at Hazelbrae farm or picnic. Visit in February for the Hazelnut festival or throughout the year.

      Westbury

      Founded as a garrison town in 1828, many of the historic buildings are still scattered around the town. Entering the town off the highway, you will find several places that are worth a visit. A traditional maze consisting of over 3000 Privot hedges and cafe, Perns Steam World, a trip into the past viewing steam run tractors and more.  Alternatively, stop at the Western Tiers distillery for a tasting, tour or a bite to eat in the cafe.

      Just a 30 min drive from Westbury you will find Liffey Falls. These are beautiful wide cascading, multi-level falls. The walk from the top carpark is a 45 min return walk. Venture further into the dense forest with towering trees. This area is beautiful no matter the weather, and a thoroughly recommended inclusion into the one day itineraries around Launceston.