Oatlands

Oatlands is a historic town in the Midlands region of Tasmania, approximately 80 km north of Hobart and 90 km south of Launceston. It is known for having the largest collection of colonial sandstone buildings in Australia, with over 140 heritage-listed structures. The town was established in the 1820s as a military post and coaching stop on the main road between Hobart and Launceston. The climate is temperate with cool winters and mild summers.

By Plane

Hobart Airport (HBA) is approximately 90 km south, with domestic services. Launceston Airport (LST) is about 90 km north.

By Train

There is no passenger rail service. The heritage railway operates occasionally for tourist services.

By Car / Road

Oatlands is on the Midland Highway (A1), the main road between Hobart and Launceston. Driving from Hobart takes about 1 hour, from Launceston about 1 hour 15 minutes.

The town centre is easily walkable. A car is useful for exploring the surrounding region.

• Callington Mill — Australia's only working colonial windmill, built in 1837, now restored and open for tours.

• Oatlands Heritage Walk — A self-guided walk past the town's 140+ heritage buildings.

• St Paul's Church — Historic sandstone church from 1839.

• Oatlands Gaol — The remains of the original 1830s gaol and court house.

• Lake Dulverton — A large lake on the edge of town, popular for birdwatching and walking.

• Oatlands Colonial Carriages — Display of historic horse-drawn vehicles.

• Callington Mill tours — Climb the windmill for views over the town.

• Walking trails — Lakeside walking around Lake Dulverton.

• Birdwatching — Lake Dulverton attracts waterbirds and migratory species.

• Golf at Oatlands Golf Club — A 9-hole course.

• Oatlands Show — Annual agricultural show.

• Oatlands Cafe — Popular for breakfast, lunch, and coffee.
• Oatlands Hotel — Country pub with bistro meals.
• Callington Mill Gallery Cafe — Light meals located at the mill.
• Sweet Apple Cafe — Cafe serving coffee, cakes, and light meals.

The Oatlands Hotel is the main pub. Several cafes serve coffee in the town centre.

• Budget — Oatlands Caravan Park, cabins from $70 per night.
• Mid-range — Oatlands Motor Inn, comfortable rooms from $100 per night.
• Upscale — Callington Mill Cottages, heritage self-contained cottages from $150 per night.

Oatlands has a main street with supermarkets, antique shops, and galleries. Local produce includes wool, timber products, and preserves.

• Ross (20 km north) — Historic town with Ross Bridge and bakery.
• Bothwell (25 km west) — Historic town with the oldest golf course in Australia.
• Richmond (60 km south) — Historic town with Richmond Bridge and gaol.
• Hobart (90 km south) — Tasmania's capital city.
• Campania (50 km south) — Small town near the Coal River Valley wine region.