Richmond, Tasmania: A Charming Historic Village You’ll Want to Slow Down For
The historic bridge in Richmond.
Richmond, Tasmania: Where History Meets Slow Travel
Richmond feels like stepping into a living postcard.
Just 30 minutes from Hobart, this beautifully preserved historic village is one of Tasmania’s oldest towns, and one of its most photogenic. With its sandstone buildings, convict history, historic churches, and iconic bridge surrounded by ducks, Richmond is an easy half-day trip that often turns into much longer, simply because it’s so lovely.
Walk Across Australia’s Oldest Bridge
The star of Richmond is undoubtedly Richmond Bridge.
Built in 1823 by convict labour, it’s the oldest surviving stone bridge in Australia still in use today. The arches and the stonework are beautiful, and the bridge is almost always accompanied by ducks waddling about or resting along the edges.
Traveller tip: Come early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people, and keep an eye out for reflections on the river if conditions are calm.
The historic bridge dates back to 1823.
Step Inside Richmond’s Convict Past
Tasmania’s convict history is deeply woven into its towns, and Richmond is no exception.
Richmond Gaol
This small but fascinating gaol dates back to the 1820s and offers a glimpse into what punishment looked like in early colonial Tasmania. It’s confronting in places, but incredibly informative, especially when paired with a visit to nearby historic sites like Port Arthur.
Historic Churches
Richmond is home to several beautiful old churches, including St John’s Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic church in Australia. Even if you’re not a history buff, the architecture alone makes them worth a look.
Australia’s oldest Catholic church, St John’s.
Wander, Photograph, Repeat
One of the best things to do in Richmond… is simply to wander.
The village is compact, flat, and easily walkable. You’ll find:
Sandstone cottages
Cute shops and galleries
Heritage buildings at every turn
Ducks, geese, and general calm vibes
It’s an absolute dream for photographers and slow travellers alike.
Where to Eat in Richmond
Richmond punches above its weight when it comes to cosy cafés and easy lunches.
Popular options include:
Czegs’ Café - A local favourite for brunch and coffee
Ashmore on Bridge Street - Great for relaxed meals with local produce
Richmond Bakery - Ideal for something quick and classic
Pair Richmond With Wine Country
One of Richmond’s biggest advantages? Its location in the Coal River Valley wine region.
Just minutes away are some of Tasmania’s most beautiful wineries, making Richmond an easy heritage-meets-wine day trip.
Pooley Wines
We stopped at Pooley Wines, and it was every bit as lovely as you’d expect… elegant cellar door, stunning vineyard views, and exceptional cool-climate wines.
Other nearby wineries include:
Traveller tip:
If you’re driving, nominate a designated driver or consider booking a wine tour from Hobart.
The historic buildings of Pooley Wines, just outside of Richmond.
Where to Stay Near Richmond
While Richmond is often visited as a day trip, staying nearby lets you enjoy the area at a slower pace.
Accommodation options include:
Heritage cottages in Richmond village
Boutique stays in the Coal River Valley
Hotels and apartments in Hobart (30 minutes away)
This makes Richmond a great add-on to a Hobart-based itinerary.
Recommended accommodation:
Prospect Country House - A stunning estate with a vineyard and cellar door on site (my top pick)
Hatchers Richmond Manor - Quirky rooms that are full of personality
The Richmond Arms Hotel - Central and convenient location
Original 1823 Bridge Cottage/Sergeants Cottage - Step back in time with a historic cottage overlooking the Richmond Bridge
How Long Do You Need in Richmond?
Minimum: 2-3 hours
Ideal: Half a day (especially if pairing with wineries)
Extended stay: Overnight if exploring the Coal River Valley
How to Get to Richmond, Tasmania
From Hobart: ~30 minutes by car
Public transport: Limited. Driving is best
Best combined with: Hobart, Port Arthur, Coal River Valley wineries
More historic churches in Richmond.
Why Richmond Belongs on Your Tasmania Itinerary
Richmond is one of those places that quietly wins you over. It simply offers history, beauty, and a gentle reminder to slow down… something Tasmania does better than anywhere else in Australia.
Whether you’re chasing convict history, charming streets, or the perfect wine-and-wander afternoon, Richmond is an easy yes.
Discover more things to see and do around Hobart with my Hobart Travel Guide.
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