Richmond

Richmond, Tasmania – The places, the people and the produce

Situated in the heart of the beautiful Coal River Valley, Richmond Tasmania is a charming and historic town located just 25 km north east of Hobart and a short 15-minute drive from Hobart’s International airport. It is perfectly positioned as a weekend escape, a fantastic day trip for the start or finish of your Tassie holiday or an ideal base to explore southern Tasmania.

Richmond is well known for its beautiful architecture, scenic countryside, rich cultural heritage and world class produce, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

In this editorial, we'll discuss why visiting Richmond, Tasmania is an experience that should not be missed!

First and foremost, Richmond is home to some of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Australia. The town's beautiful sandstone buildings date back to the early 19th century and have been carefully preserved and maintained over the years.

Any day of the week visitors can take the opportunity to enjoy a stroll along the streets, admire charming buildings many of which now house cafes, restaurants, galleries, antique stores and specialty boutiques.

It goes without saying that Richmond is famous for its historic landmark, the Richmond Bridge. Built in 1823 it is Australia’s oldest continuously used bridge and is one of Tasmania’s most photographed sites and well-known icons for the state. The bridge spans the Coal River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

For those interested in history Richmond also offers a wealth of cultural experiences. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Richmond Gaol, which dates back to 1825 and now operates as a museum. Richmond’s rich history will be celebrated later this year with the bicentennial of the Richmond Bridge in December and the town’s settlement in early 2024.

The Coal River Valley region has a rich history of food production dating back to the early 1800’s when European settlers first arrived in the area. The surrounding hills and fields served as one of Australia’s first food bowls. Today Richmond’s beautiful countryside is dotted with vineyards, orchards and farms, enticing visitors to take a scenic drive through the rolling hills, stopping to sample local wines, fruits, cheeses and chocolate along the way.

Today, the Coal River Valley is one of Australia’s fastest growing wine regions offering a trail of some of Tasmania’s finest vineyards and cellar doors, and arguably some of the best Sparkling, Pinot Noir and whisky to be found anywhere in the world, rivalling France and Scotland!

At every turn you will find orchards and farms with an abundance of delicious seasonal harvests. The valley’s friendly, local producers offer award-winning cheeses, chocolates, and oysters that are to die for.

Richmond is a town that values community and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy warm and welcoming interactions with locals, who are always happy to share their stories and recommendations for things to see and do.

When hunger strikes, you are in luck with a huge variety of options ranging from award-winning restaurants, well-loved cafes, traditional pub meals or perhaps try a famous curried scallop pie from the local bakery. For that something sweet, you cannot go past a visit to the famous traditional lolly shop or one of the Coal River Valley’s famous chocolatiers or ice creameries. There truly is something for everyone.

Those looking for a sense of adventure will find there are unique and curious attractions that offer something for people of all ages. Take the opportunity to lose yourself in an immersive and living hedge maze or explore the evolving timber maze that offers a new variation on every visit. Perhaps take a trip to the local zoo and get up close to some wildlife. Enjoy a round or two of golf at one of the three local courses or take a scenic flight in a helicopter over the Coal River Valley to view the town from a different perspective.

When staying overnight, everyone’s level of comfort is catered for. From self-contained restored historic cottages, intimate country bed and breakfasts, vineyard accommodation, glamping, caravan sites and cabins to an elegant manor hotel.

Visiting Richmond, Tasmania is an experience that is not to be missed. With its beautiful architecture, award-winning food and wine, scenic countryside, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, this charming town and its surrounds has something to offer everyone.

So, if you're planning a trip to Tasmania, be sure to add this top Tassie town to your itinerary as it has so much to offer. You won't regret it!

RICHMOND ITINERARY

Discover Richmond, the heart and regional hub of the abundant Coal River Valley in southern Tasmania. A short 25-minute drive from Hobart will have you and your partner delighting in this picturesque and historic township which connects you with some of Tasmania’s best food and beverages, accommodation, and artisans alike.

Cheese and chocolate producers, oysters fresh from the sea, hatted restaurants with selfie-worthy views, award winning wineries, unique attractions, pick-your-own orchards and world-best distilleries, and that’s just on the way there! Richmond township itself is brimming with local artisans and antiques, cafes, fashion and specialty stores, boutique accommodation with all the trimmings, a service culture that makes you feel like a local, and a community that is as passionate about its diversity as it is for its rich convict history. An ideal destination for couples with so much to see and do, you will need to stay a while, at least a day or two!

DAY ONE: The Riches of Richmond

MUST SEE

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE

Road-side produce for sale – do not miss the cute little shed of Frankham Figs!
Littlewood Berry Farm
Coal River Farm for cheese and chocolate

Your enrichment begins soon after you realise how little time has passed since you stepped off the plane at Hobart International Airport and hoped into your rental car. Ensure you grab a copy of the Coal River Valley visitor guide and map! Within minutes, you will be on Richmond Road and entering the plentiful Coal River Wine Region.

On your right, you will notice the striking image of the Mt Pleasant Radio Telescope, home to the Grote Reber Museum. Break the cellar door seal with a visit to Frogmore Creek Vineyard and Restaurant. Enjoy a tasting from their splendid range of cool-climate wine (be sure to try the Fumé Blanc, Pinot Noir and Iced Riesling)! Ask the staff for access to the (almost) hidden mezzanine art gallery… It will floor you! If time permits, ask for a table for lunch in the restaurant, with views across the vineyard to the telescope and surrounding valley. LEAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT!

Back on the road, but for only the shortest of distances, make sure you turn off to visit Coal River Farm. Dependent upon the season, explore the pick-your-own orchard, or head inside to sample delicious cheese and watch chocolate treats being made in front of you. Before gluttony sets in, make your way to the village of Richmond.

Whilst awaiting check-in for your accommodation, immerse yourself in the rich history of 1820’s Hobart at Old Hobart Town Model Village. This unique replica, offers a glimpse into life in early Hobart and its harsh convict past. Be sure to take note of buildings that still stand today to seek out on your trip to Hobart.

Wander the streets of Richmond Village and explore the elegant Georgian architecture, with laneways that lead to some fascinating people, proudly sharing the history of the valley and making and selling extraordinary things. Take a trip down memory lane at Sweets and Treats, a Richmond institution for over 30 years. Bursting with all the delights to satisfy the sweet tooth, the shop includes memories from your childhood.

Arrive at Prospect House Private Hotel to settle in for a romantic night. The grand entrance and gardens as you drive through the front gates and up towards the lovingly restored 1830’s manor, really sets the scene for the indulgence that awaits. After familiarising yourself with the stunning building and grounds, stroll across to Pooley Wines for your complimentary tasting. Learn about the rich family history of this local favourite and sample some of their award-winning wines.

Back at Prospect House, enjoy an intimate dinner with a set menu showcasing some of the freshest local seasonal produce sourced from the surrounding valley and onsite gardens.

DAY TWO: Live Like a Local

MUST SEE

Be “Amazed” enjoy getting lost in Richmond’s newest venue.
Explore the curious at the Pooseum…ask about THAT beer on display!
Drink Tasmania Tasting House southern Tasmania’s largest selection of local spirits
Enjoy a curried scallop pie at the Richmond Bakery

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE

The stunning streetscape and surprises around every corner
The local stories and family connections
Interpretive street signage offering a glimpse into early Richmond

Richmond is home to Australia’s oldest bridge, constructed between 1823 and 1825 by convict labour, it is still in use today and provides access to the neighbouring township of Sorell, the East Coast and Port Arthur. Start the day with a coffee and breakfast at Ashmore on Bridge Street, and head down to Amaze Richmond to enjoy Richmond’s newest attraction. Then make your way through the village green and down to the banks of the Coal River, where you can position yourself on the water’s edge platform for the perfect selfie in front of the magnificent Richmond Bridge behind.

Back on the road, head out of Richmond towards Killara Distillery. Bill Lark, known as the “godfather” of whisky in Tasmania, was instrumental in reigniting distilling in Tasmania. The establishment of Lark Distillery in 1992 saw Lark’s original cellar door open in what is now Sweets and Treats. This was the first in Tasmania in over 150 years! Bill has now passed his knowledge and passion for the industry onto his daughter Kristy, who owns and operates Killara. As you enjoy a tasting, you appreciate the proximity to quality produce; botanicals for gin, barley for whisky and liquors featuring cherries from the orchard just up the road.

Back in Richmond for lunch, head to local favourite Wattlebanks Café & Providore. Relax under the trees with lunch in the picturesque gardens and watch the world go by. Be sure to browse their providore which is jampacked with bespoke local produce from the Coal River Valley and across Tasmania.

Treat yourselves to some retail therapy as you explore the specialty boutiques. Do not miss Walker and Walker, offering an eclectic mix of old and new. Be guided by the alluring scents drifting from Richmond Botanicals. Inside you will find handmade products championing local ingredients, beautifully displayed within their 180-year-old horse stables that have been lovingly restored to showcase the original cobblestones.

Join the locals for a yarn over dinner at the Richmond Arms Hotel. Standing proudly in the heart of Richmond, this grand old building invites you in for a uniquely Richmond experience. Think a hearty pub meal, gossip and insights from the locals, and if you’re lucky, dance your socks off to local talent in the popular beer garden!

DAY THREE: Above & Beyond

MUST SEE

Be sure to visit Puddleduck Vineyard for a selfie with Morrison, the giant vine-woven duck.
Visit Candy Abalone onsite at Barilla Bay Oyster Farm
Run out of time? Mark down a new itinerary for your next visit on your visitor guide & map!

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE

Generations of families living and working in the valley
The “Everything Ducky Duck Shop” at Puddleduck
A bird’s eye view of the Coal River Valley and the contrast to Hobart city just over the hill

For your final day, rise early for breakfast at Czegs Cafe and enjoy watching the town wake up and start to bustle.

Make your way to Zoo Doo Zoo, for your pre-booked experience feeding the native Tasmanian Devils. Spend some time watching the playful antics of some of the 400 native and exotic animals on display. Before you depart, be sure to visit the gift shop and collect your photos of your brave animal encounter!

Arrive at Puddleduck Vineyard for your pre-booked vineyard and winery tour. This behind-the-scenes tour provides insight into the incredible effort behind turning grapes into your favourite bottled wine. Grab a spot by the lake to enjoy your wine tasting paddle with a locally sourced Wicked Cheese platter; included in the tour.

To wrap up your long weekend in style, head to Barilla Bay Oyster Farm for a feast of freshly shucked oysters direct from the bay in front of you. After washing them down with your new favourite sparkling wine from Tasmania head back to the airport for a scenic helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours to enjoy one last look at the Coal River Valley by air plus a birds eye view of Hobart or perhaps you have some more time to spare? Mona? Port Arthur? Maria Island? The choice is yours! Your friendly pilot will even ensure you are back at Hobart Airport in time for your flight home.

Good things mustn’t always come to an end – start planning your next escape to visit Richmond, maybe to coincide with Richmond’s Bicentennial starting in December 2023 with celebrations planned until March 2024!