This little town of cobbles, handmade brick and mellow stone on the banks of the Coal River is just a 30-minute drive from Hobart.
With more than 50 19th century buildings, many of them now providing high-quality accommodation, Richmond, with a population of around 800, is a perfect place to learn about Tasmania’s rich heritage.
Walk across Australia’s oldest bridge, built by convict labour between 1823 and 1825. Stand in the cell of the Richmond Gaol (1825), Australia’s oldest goal, for an eerie insight into the hardships of early Van Diemen’s Land convict life. Or wander in the cemetery of Australia’s oldest remaining Catholic Church, St Johns, built in 1836.
Step back in time with a ghost tour by lantern light or a look at original 1820s Hobart Town at the Hobart Town Historical Model Village. Then relax on the banks of the Coal River with a picnic, while feeding the local ducks, or test your sense of direction in the Richmond mazes.
You’ll get the most out of Richmond by wandering its streets on foot. Artists and craftspeople have been drawn to the town for generations, and you’ll find examples of their work in galleries and cafes.
On the way to Richmond to or from Hobart, visit some of the excellent vineyards in the region – sip wine at the cellar door or enjoy an a la carte meal of fresh Tasmanian produce in a stylish winery restaurant.
Richmond was proclaimed a town by Lieutenant Governor Sorell, in 1824. It played an important role as a convict station and military outpost in the early days of the colony. For much of its history it was the main gateway to the east coast and the Tasman Peninsula. If you are travelling to these destinations from Hobart, consider visiting Richmond on your way.
Richmond is 24 kilometres (15 miles) east of Hobart along the B31. Its maximum average daily temperature is 22.5 degrees Celsius (72.5 degrees Fahrenheit) in January and 13 degrees Celsius (55.5 degrees Fahrenheit) in June.
