Bothwell

Bothwell is a historic town in the Central Highlands of Tasmania, approximately 75 km north-west of Hobart. It is one of Tasmania's oldest inland settlements, established in the 1820s. Bothwell is known for its colonial sandstone buildings, the oldest golf course in Australia, and its proximity to the Central Highlands lakes and fishing rivers. The climate is cool temperate with cold winters and mild summers.

By Plane

Hobart Airport (HBA) is approximately 90 km south-east, with domestic services.

By Train

There is no passenger rail service.

By Car / Road

Bothwell is on the Lyell Highway (A10) between Hobart and the West Coast, about 1 hour 15 minutes drive from Hobart. The road is sealed.

A car is essential. The town centre is walkable.

• Bothwell Golf Course — The oldest golf course in Australia, established in 1832. A historic links course with stunning views.

• Ratho Farm — Historic farm dating from the 1820s, featuring the golf course and heritage buildings.

• St Michael's Church — Historic sandstone church from 1851.

• Bothwell Courthouse — A heritage-listed building still in use.

• Bothwell Museum — Local history exhibits in the old council chambers.

• Nive River — Scenic river views and picnic spots.

• Golf at Ratho Farm — Play the historic 18-hole course.

• Trout fishing — The Central Highlands lakes and rivers are world-renowned for trout fishing.

• Walking trails — Walks along the Nive and Clyde Rivers.

• Bothwell Highland Gathering — Annual Scottish-themed event.

• Historic building tours — Self-guided walk past the town's sandstone buildings.

• Bothwell Hotel — Historic pub serving classic meals.
• Bothwell Bakery — Local pies and pastries.
• Hungry Wombat Cafe — Coffee and light meals.
• The Nive Cafe — Popular for breakfast and lunch.

Bothwell Hotel is the main pub. The surrounding Central Highlands has microbreweries and distilleries.

• Budget — Bothwell Caravan Park, cabins from $70 per night.
• Mid-range — Bothwell Hotel Motel, rooms from $100 per night.
• Upscale — Ratho Farm accommodation, historic farmstay from $140 per night.
• Self-contained — Trout fishing lodges in the surrounding region.

Bothwell has a general store and a local shop for basic supplies. For major shopping, Hobart is the nearest centre.

• Hamilton (20 km south) — Historic town with the Hamilton Hotel and heritage buildings.
• Ouse (25 km north) — Town on the Ouse River, gateway to the Central Highlands.
• Derwent Bridge (50 km north-west) — Small settlement near Lake St Clair and the Walls of Jerusalem.
• New Norfolk (50 km south-east) — Historic town on the Derwent River.
• Hobart (75 km south-east) — Capital city with markets, mountain, and waterfront.