My Itinerary

Architecture and design

Launnie built history 44

Built different

A merging of rich heritage and modern design

Launnie is a jewel box of architectural styles and design, best explored on foot, camera in hand. Look closely. Look up. Notice every preserved or patinated surface.

Do try to be careful as you wend your way through our streets – you might accidentally fall in love with the place.

The spot list

Albert Hall

Bank of New South Wales

City Park

Custom House

Design Tasmania

Duck Reach Power Station

Esk Brewery

Gasworks

Henty House

Holyman House

Johnstone & Wilmot Store

Launceston Post Office

Launceston Synagogue

Macquarie House

Morton House

National Automobile Museum of Tasmania

Old Brisbane Hotel

Paterson Barracks

Prince Albert Inn

Princes Square

Queen Victoria Art Gallery

Queen Victoria Museum

Ritchie's Mill

Shields Street

St John's Church

Tasmania Flour Mills

The Cornwall Hotel

The Old Umbrella Shop

The Quadrant Mall

Town Hall

Cataract Gorge

Amble across the historic wrought-iron King's Bridge to the mouth of the Cataract Gorge, where the remains of the chute that once carried water to Ritchie's Mill – an 1830s flour mill – can be seen on the eastern cliff face. Next, make your way up to the Duck Reach Power Station, Australia’s very first commercial hydroelectric station completed in 1895.

Cataract Gorge Image 3

Launceston Gasworks

The oldest buildings on site at Launceston Gasworks were built in 1860 from sandstone and local brick. At the top of retort buildings, fancy brickwork spells out 'COOK WITH GAS'. The steel frame of the gasometer stands nearby.

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2 Willis Street, Launceston
QVMAG web 2023 06 01

Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery

The former Railway Workshops at Inveresk have been transformed into a unique cultural precinct featuring the Queen Victoria Museum. Head inside and immerse yourself in Launceston's intriguing history, art, and natural sciences collections.

A short drive will take you to the Queen Victoria Art Gallery at Royal Park. The design of the 1891 building was chosen as part of a competition. The winner was a young local architect, John Duncan. (Fun fact: he also designed Albert Hall for £25.)

Launceston history walk

As Australia's third-oldest city, established in 1806, Launnie is renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings. Download the Launceston Historical Society's 'Cya On The Road' app for an itinerary of 20 of the city's most marvellous frontages, plus audio guides, maps, cafe recommendations, and more.

Launceston by Foot

Pull on your walking shoes and uncover the city's secrets with Launceston by Foot. Join unique walking tours that seamlessly blend history with gastronomy and hidden gems, promising an authentic experience you won't forget.

Architecture fans will enjoy the Heart of Launceston tour, which unlocks fascinating stories of the city through historic landmarks and local hotspots.

Australia Post

The Launceston General Post Office was built between 1886 and 1899 in the Queen Anne architectural style. The stout tower (nicknamed the Pepper Pot) was added a few years later by public subscription, with the clock installed just in time for Launceston's centenary in 1906.

Australiapost TP 19 01 001

Princes Square

Established in 1858 on a disused brickfield, Princes Square is known for its dappled light and beautiful Val d'Osne Fountain. Its pleasant symmetry belies earlier use as a rubbish dump, military parade ground, and rowdy political meeting place.

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Launnie in focus

One of the best ways to experience and appreciate Launnie's architecture is through the lens of a camera. Launceston Camera House offers excellent photography workshops from time to time, allowing you to take to the streets, sharpen your skills, and capture amazing images that tell the story of the city.

Keep an eye on the Launceston Camera House Facebook page and Camera House website for upcoming sessions.

Grab a bite while you explore


Scrumptious Corner

56 Cameron Street, Launceston

56 Cameron Street, Launceston

Once you discover Scrumptious Corner, you will feel inspired to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. It's... Read more

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Afghan Kebabs Launceston

25 Wellington Street, Launceston

25 Wellington Street, Launceston

Afghan Kebabs Launceston offers a variety of Middle Eastern flavours, specialising in a range of kebabs and traditional... Read more

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Chez Carrie Crêperie

68 Saint John Street, Launceston

68 Saint John Street, Launceston

Chez Carrie Crêperie brings to Launceston delicious crêpes in a cozy atmosphere. Specializing in a “street food” style of... Read more

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Georgios + Co

236 Charles Street, Launceston

236 Charles Street, Launceston

Shopping for the perfect gift can be intimidating, but the experts in gift giving at Georgios + Co are here to help. With... Read more

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Another Wild Thyme Café

97 York Street, Launceston

97 York Street, Launceston

Looking for a quick and affordable bite to eat in the CBD? Craving a classic takeaway meal like hot meat pies, a fresh... Read more

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Luz Restaurant

61 Cameron Street, Launceston

61 Cameron Street, Launceston

Luz Restaurant, previously located in the The Grand Hotel, has moved their exceptional fine-dining experience to the former... Read more

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Alida Restaurant at Penny Royal

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Tucked behind a man-made lagoon, and right beside a roaring waterfall, Alida is a modern dining destination located inside... Read more

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Tassie Dhaba in Town

146 Charles Street, Launceston

146 Charles Street, Launceston

As the newest branch of the popular Tassie Dhaba in Beaconsfield, the new location offers the same high quality traditional... Read more

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Tres Restaurant

2, 126 Charles Street, Launceston

2, 126 Charles Street, Launceston

Good things come in three, and Tres (three in español) is serving delicious Latin-inspired cuisine from morning to late at... Read more

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