Exploring Launceston
Exploring Launceston, Tasmania: A Guide to Fun For All
Located in Tassie’s north, Launceston is a charming city with a lot to offer, from tasty local bites to stunning natural wonders.
A unique blend of old and new, this vibrant city is settled around three rivers – the North Esk, South Esk and kanamaluka / River Tamar. Explore the city by foot or rent a car and enjoy a day of winery hopping in the Tamar Valley. There’s so much to enjoy in Launceston.
Discover Cataract Gorge
Where in the world can you stroll from the CBD to a stunning natural wonder in just 15 minutes? The spectacular Cataract Gorge is what the Northern Tasmanian city is best known for.
The result of a series of earthquakes along fault lines, the dramatic canyon of the Cataract Gorge started forming over 80 million years ago – find out more.
Starting at the historic Kings Bridge, walk along a track overlooking the deep canyon and river flowing below. For the best views of the Gorge, be sure to visit the suspension bridge and take the scenic chairlift across the basin. With a central span of 308m, it is believed to be the longest span of any chairlift in the world.
The Cataract Gorge offers a network of walking and hiking trails that showcase panoramic views and beautiful gardens. Visiting during the summer months? Take your swimmers as the First Basin swimming pool is open to the public. Rock climbing and abseiling are also popular activities.
Explore the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, or QVMAG as it’s best known, is Australia’s largest regional gallery and northern Tassie’s home of art, history and natural science.
From a dedicated thylacine (Tasmanian Tiger) exhibit, to colonial John Glover artworks, and remarkable dinosaur skeletons, QVMAG is an interactive experience for both young and old.
There is so much to explore across the two sites. Take in classic and contemporary artworks at the 1891 gallery at Royal Park, a highlight here is the First Tasmanians exhibition which explores the history and culture of the Tasmanian Aboriginal people. Set within 1870s-era industrial railway workshops, the Inveresk museum features dinosaurs, native Tasmanian species, convict history, the phenomena factory, and Launceston’s very own planetarium.
Entry to the museum and art gallery is free, there is an extra cost for the Planetarium. You can travel between both sites for free via the Tiger bus, see full timetable here.
Wander Through City Park
Rated as one of the top ten parks in Australia, City Park features manicured gardens, a Macaque monkey enclosure, a stunning conservatory, and much more.
Established in the 1820s by the Launceston Horticultural Society, this heritage park was once known as ‘People’s Park’, and continues to be central to Launceston life today as it hosts key events throughout the year such as Tasmania’s premier food, wine and entertainment event – Festivale.
Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens, take a quiet moment in the sun, or bring a picnic and enjoy the tranquillity. There is plenty to see and do though if you’re looking for activities. The Japanese Macaque monkeys are a must-see when visiting City Park. Located in a sprawling enclosure based on natural living conditions, these interesting creatures were a gift to the city of Launceston in 1980 from its sister city in Japan. There is plenty for the kids too, including a large playground, duck pond, and the famous City Park train.
Visit the James Boag Brewery
For beer lovers, add a trip to the James Boag Brewery to your itinerary. Operating on the banks of the Esk River since 1881, the historic brewery offers a chance to tour the factory, learn about the brewing process that results in a range of award-winning beers, and James Boag’s fascinating history. At the end of the tour, you will have the chance to taste three James Boag beers not available to mainland Australia.
To experience the local brewery without a tour you can visit the James Boag Brewery Bar. Set within the historic ground of the factory, the bar is open for lunch and cold beers Tuesday to Sunday.
Experience the Harvest Launceston Community Farmers' Market
Taste the very best of Tassie at Launceston’s local farmers market, Harvest. Here you’ll enjoy wandering through stalls showcasing the very best of local primary produce and handmade food. There’s so much on offer — fresh fruit and veg, homemade artisan bread and pastry, local dairy products, handcrafted beverages, cured meats, sausage and salumi, flowers, and more. Sold to you by the growers and makers themselves, every Saturday from 8:30am – 12:30pm.
Take a Day Trip to the Tamar Valley
Rolling green hills, a winding river, and a trail of beautiful wineries. The Tamar Valley is the perfect day trip during your Launceston escape. This stunning part of northern Tasmania is renowned for its cool climate wines, so why not spend the day hopping from one cellar door to the next? Top picks include Tamar Ridge, Clover Hill, Janz Tasmania, and Marion’s Vineyard. For planning your route and finding the cellar door for you, take a look at Tamar Valley Wines.
There is more to the Tamar Valley than just wine. Check out local distilleries like Turners Stillhouse, experience the interactive Mine Rescue exhibition at the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre, or visit the cute creatures of Seahorse World and Platypus House at Beauty Point.
Immerse Yourself in History at Brickendon Estate
For a walk through Tasmania’s history, be sure to make a trip to Brickendon Estate. Settled by William Archer in 1824, Brickendon is one of Tasmania’s oldest farming properties. This historic farm has been continuously operated and lived on by his direct descendants, now in their seventh generation.
Brickendon was recently listed as a World Heritage Site along with its neighbour Woolmers Estate as part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.
The two Estates are regarded as the most significant rural estates in Australia, having the second largest number of convict workers and still retaining a living history from early European settlement to the present day.
A visit to Brickendon is an immersive historical experience for the whole family. Explore the farm village and see what life would have been like 200 years ago or walk through the beautiful heritage gardens and take in the beauty of 180-year-old trees from all parts of the world.
Enjoy Local Cuisine at Popular Restaurants
When it comes to good food and drinks, Launceston has you covered.
In fact, Launceston was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2021, making it one of only 36 world cities bestowed with the title. It recognises northern Tasmania’s unique paddock-to-plate culture and Launceston’s role as the region’s gourmet hub. Here are four great picks for eating out in Launceston:
Fresh pastries and breakfast at Bread + Butter
Searching for delicious bakery bites or a casual breakfast or lunch? Check out Bread + Butter Bakey + Café in the heart of Launceston CBD.
This local sourdough bakery and café serves up delicious pastries and fresh breads daily. Visit for breakfast or lunch, or take away a selection of their tasty treats and enjoy on the go.
Wine and Dine at Terrace Kitchen
Home to fresh local produce and fine dining, Terrace Kitchen is conveniently located within Country Club resort and showcases the best Tasmania has to offer on its seasonal menu. From Tasmanian oysters to the finest steaks cooked on the grill, all paired with local wines, Terrace Kitchen truly delivers.
Local Brews and Pizza at Du Cane Brewery
For a family-friendly feed visit Du Cane, a Brewery & Dining Hall that celebrates Tasmanian Bushwalking culture and keeps the kids thoroughly entertained.
Located in quaint Princes Square, Du Cane not only has a dedicated children’s play area but a climbing wall too.
Dig into wood-fired pizzas and taste their range of beers made onsite, as well as other locally-made beverages.
Casual Eats at Burger Junkie
A Launceston staple, Burger Junkie is the local burger joint you must try. When it comes to juicy burgers and comfort food, Burger Junkie gas got you covered. Whether it’s a quick pit stop during activities or a laid-back dinner with the family, you can’t go wrong stopping to eat here.
Experience Festivals and Events
Visiting Launceston in summer? Grab a ticket to Launceston’s premium food and wine event, Festivale. This three-day celebration dishes up the best local food, beer, wine, spirits, cider and entertainment. Held annually on the first weekend of February, the outdoor event brings the very best of Tassie together for three days in City Park.
Another summer event to check out is Mona Foma. This is Mona’s summer festival of music and art. Each year is different but you can expect plenty of live music, art installations around the city, lasers and much more. Check out the website for more info.
Staying over New Years? Be sure to head to Launceston’s Beerfest. Set along the waterfront at Royal Park, Beerfest is a festival full of good food, craft brews, live music, and celebrations for the whole family. Enjoy the line up of local bites while you sit back and enjoy the fireworks!
Love music? Grab your ticket to The Red Hot Summer Tour, held on the Lawns of Country Club in February. This annual event showcases a range of popular Australian artists in an iconic outdoor concert, it’s the ultimate live music experience. Find tickets.
Practical Tips for Visiting Launceston
The easiest way to reach Launceston is by air, flights are available direct from most Australian capital cities. Melbourne is the closest Australian mainland city to Launceston and has the most frequent and shortest flights into Launceston, taking about one hour. Airlines operating direct flights from Melbourne to Hobart and Launceston are Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar.
Once landed in Launceston, it’s a short 15-minute drive from the airport to the centre of the city. Catch the airport shuttle, rent a car, or grab a taxi.
Looking for somewhere to stay? You can’t go past Country Club Tasmania. Located just ten minutes from the CBD, Country Club offers both resort and self-contained villa-style accommodations and a range of onsite outlets and activities to enjoy.
Explore the range of dining outlets on offer, from themed all-you-can-eat buffets at Links Restaurant to a delicious meal showcasing local ingredients at Terrace Kitchen. Sit back and relax at one of the four bars or enjoy a game or two in Launceston’s only casino.
There is a range of fun activities too! Take the family horse-riding, float in the pool and spa, hone your skills on the golf course, or dance the night away to live entertainment. Learn more about Country Club or book your stay here.
Launceston has a cool temperate and four distinct seasons to enjoy. The best time to visit Launceston is during the summer when the sun is shining and there is an abundance of events and festivals to enjoy. However, for exploring Tasmania during winter, the quieter off-season can also be a great time to visit.
Average temperatures in Launceston reach a high of 25°C and a low of 11°C in the summer months, with lows of 2°C and highs of 13°C during winter.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re a foodie, keen to explore the wine trail, an outdoor adventurer, or simply eager to get away from the hustle and bustle, Launceston is a fantastic holiday destination.
With its spectacular Cataract Gorge, picturesque Tamar Valley wine region, delicious foodie scene, interactive museums and historical attractions, and more — there is something for everyone. Book your Launceston stay today.