Launceston has bags of charm, from its riverside location, to its elegant Victorian architecture, parks, and gardens, this small city is packed with things to see, do, and enjoy.
The city has an old-world feel that is reflected in the colour and architectural style of its buildings. It’s a place that will remind visitors of parts of England, with parks that come to life with colourful flowers and trees that bear healthy foliage. The air here is as clean and fresh as it comes.
The greater Launceston region is home to diverse wildlife, such as the rare water birds that inhabit nearby Tamar Island. There’s also the Tasmania Zoo and Seahorse World not far from the confines of the city.
The city was first settled by the British in 1806 and was once home to the Tasmanian tiger, which is now extinct, but still serves as the unofficial emblem of the city. Take time to enjoy this compact city and you’ll find a place where art and design thrives alongside a vibrant food and coffee scene.
You can't visit Launceston without enjoying a meal at the celebrated Stillwater restaurant, picturesquely housed in a restored riverside flour mill. The difficult question is: what meal will it be? While reservations are recommended for dinner – it is also worth visiting for breakfast as well. It’s a lovely way to start the day, looking out over the water, with a breakfast of world-famous Tasmanian smoked salmon.
With more than 170 different drops on display, the Saint John Craft Beer Bar, has plenty to surprise and delight even the most discerning beer fan. This a serious craft beer bar, with a regularly rotating selection of top Aussie beer on tap. Some may be familiar, but you’ll be bound to find something new and unknown to tickle your tastebuds.
Launceston is also home to a bustling arts community and visitors can stop by Design Tasmania's shop on the corner of Tamar and Brisbane Street to see some of the best Tassie has to offer. The shop showcases the best work of artisans and designers from all over Tasmania, with tables and shelves filled with all sorts of objects. You probably won’t leave here empty handed.
One of Launceston’s most unmissable attractions is Cataract Gorge, just a 15-minute walk from the city centre. Here you’ll find an expansive, awe-inspiring ravine with an impressive suspension bridge. If you feel like taking a dip, there’s a swimming pool where you can swim while taking in the views. The gorge is also home to the world’s longest chairlift. If you’re brave enough to ride it, you’ll be whisked over treetops and treated to breathtaking views of the bushland and river below.
Launceston is packed with interesting things to see and do. Start planning your own adventure.
