Richmond - Tassie’s Top Tourism Town 2021 (BRONZE WINNER)

Home to Australia’s oldest bridge and boasting a romantic atmosphere, striking Richmond was awarded bronze in Tassie’s Top Tourism Town for 2021 with a population less than 5,000.

Charming St Helens was awarded silver, while the gold winner of this year’s Tassie’s Top Tourism Town was enchanting Stanley.

You can find the full list of shortlisted towns here.

Find out what makes Richmond so special below, and make sure you take some time to explore this incredible destination on your next trip to Tasmania.

‘It goes without saying that Richmond is famous for its historic landmark, Australia’s oldest bridge. But locals will tell you, and visitors quickly discover, that there is so much more to see and do when you go beyond the bridge.

Situated in the heart of the beautiful Coal River Valley, the picturesque town of Richmond is just a short 25-minute drive from Hobart or 15 minutes from Hobart’s International Airport. It is perfectly positioned as a weekend escape, the start or finish of your Tassie holiday or as a base to explore southern Tasmania. 

Whether you are visiting as a couple, family or on your own, Richmond is a must-see destination. As you start to explore, you can’t help but feel a world away. For a place that creates the feeling that you have stepped back in time, Richmond and the surrounding Coal River Valley certainly has its fair share to discover, that is for sure!

Richmond’s rich convict history will be celebrated with the bicentennial of the town’s settlement in 2024. Any day of the week you can enjoy the streets lined with 19th century Georgian buildings and cottages, all beautifully restored. Explore the beautiful art galleries, antique stores and speciality boutiques, or delve into the town’s dark past and visit the beautifully preserved Richmond Gaol.

When hunger strikes you are in luck as Richmond is a foodie’s dream!  With a variety of options ranging from award-winning restaurants, well-loved cafes, a traditional pub meal or perhaps a famous scallop pie from the local bakery. For the sweet tooth, you cannot go past the local ice creamery or stop in at the famous traditional lolly shop.     

Originally the surrounding hills and fields once served as one of Australia’s first food bowls. Today, the Coal River Valley is home to 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 – yes, even 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 really are to die for. You could spend days exploring this lush food and wine destination and still not see everything it has to offer. 

Those looking for a sense of adventure, will find there are unique and curious attractions that offer something for everyone. Perhaps take a visit to the local zoo and get up close to some wildlife, enjoy a round or two of golf at the local course or take a scenic flight 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 restored historic cottages, country house retreats, caravan sites and cabins to an elegant manor hotel.   

Chatting with the locals as you explore their beautiful town, they will tell you with pride, Richmond is a wonderful place to live. You will no doubt agree and become an advocate yourself, as this world class destination has so much to offer.’

Information included in this blog is correct at the time of publishing. Please contact individual operators for further information.