Guide to Campbell Town Tasmania Australia

Campbell Town is more than just a convenient stop along Tasmania’s Midland Highway. It’s a living tapestry of history and culture, where convict-built structures, serene riverside views, and a welcoming community invite visitors to linger and explore. Located just 133 kilometers north of Hobart and 68 kilometers south of Launceston, it’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking a mix of heritage and relaxation.

Known For

• Convict-built Red Bridge
• The Convict Brick Trail
• Annual Campbell Town Agricultural Show

Campbell Town’s history is one of resilience and transformation, deeply intertwined with the development of Tasmania itself. Established in 1821, the town was named by Governor Lachlan Macquarie after his wife, Elizabeth Campbell. Its strategic location midway between Hobart and Launceston made it a vital link for travelers and goods during the early colonial period, cementing its importance in Tasmania’s infrastructure.

The early years of Campbell Town were marked by its role as a garrison town, housing convicts who were integral to the construction of its roads, bridges, and buildings. The Red Bridge, built between 1836 and 1838 using over 1.5 million hand-made bricks, is one of the most enduring symbols of this era. The bridge was constructed by convicts using locally sourced materials, showcasing the precision and skill of these workers. Today, it stands as both a functional piece of infrastructure and a significant historical landmark, often admired by engineers and historians alike.

The town’s convict history is further highlighted by the Convict Brick Trail, which runs along High Street. This trail is not just a tribute to the thousands of convicts who helped build Tasmania but also a way for visitors to connect with individual stories. Each brick is engraved with a convict’s name, their ship of arrival, crime, and sentence, painting a vivid picture of life during the penal era. It serves as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by those transported to Australia and their enduring legacy.

By the mid-19th century, Campbell Town had evolved beyond its convict roots to become a center for agriculture and wool production. The Northern Midlands region, of which Campbell Town is a part, became famous for its merino wool, thanks in part to pioneers like Eliza Forlong. Forlong emigrated from Scotland in the early 1820s and brought with her some of the finest merino sheep, laying the foundation for Tasmania’s world-renowned wool industry.

The town’s annual Campbell Town Agricultural Show, first held in 1838, is a testament to its agricultural heritage. As Australia’s longest-running agricultural show, it continues to celebrate the skills, traditions, and innovations of the local farming community. Visitors to the show can experience everything from sheep shearing demonstrations to craft exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the region’s rural life.

Campbell Town’s streets are lined with historic buildings that tell the story of its colonial past. Foxhunters Return, a 19th-century coaching inn, remains one of the town’s most significant structures. Originally a stop for travelers on the road between Hobart and Launceston, the inn also housed convicts working on the nearby bridge. Today, it serves as a reminder of the town’s role in supporting both locals and visitors during Tasmania’s early development.

Another notable building is The Grange, designed in the 1840s by James Blackburn, a convict architect known for his work across Tasmania. The Grange reflects the architectural style of the period and has been preserved as a historical landmark. Its imposing structure and intricate design showcase the influence of European styles brought to Australia during colonization.

Campbell Town’s location on the Midland Highway has always made it a focal point for transportation and trade. In the 19th century, the highway served as a crucial route for horse-drawn carriages and freight, facilitating the movement of goods between the north and south of Tasmania. Inns and stables in Campbell Town catered to weary travelers, offering food, rest, and supplies.

With the advent of modern transport, the highway remains an essential artery, and Campbell Town continues to serve as a popular stopover. However, its historical significance as a transport hub is evident in the remnants of coaching stations, stables, and blacksmith shops scattered throughout the town.

Today, Campbell Town’s history is preserved not only in its architecture and landmarks but also in its community. Efforts by local historians and heritage groups have ensured that the stories of the town’s past remain accessible to visitors and residents alike. Walking tours, information plaques, and interactive exhibits provide engaging ways to learn about the town’s unique history.

The combination of its convict legacy, agricultural development, and role as a transportation hub has shaped Campbell Town into a place where the past is always present. For visitors, it offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore a town that has played a pivotal role in Tasmania’s journey from a penal colony to a thriving part of modern Australia.

Attractions

The Red Bridge, constructed between 1836 and 1838, is a masterpiece of convict engineering and the oldest surviving brick arch bridge in Australia. It remains in use today, a testament to its robust construction and enduring legacy.

Art and history enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed wood carvings found throughout the town. Crafted by chainsaw artist Eddie Freeman, these sculptures celebrate significant figures and moments from the area’s past.

For those intrigued by Tasmania’s wool industry, the Eliza Forlong Statue pays tribute to a pioneer who helped establish the region’s reputation for fine merino wool.

Where To Stay

Accommodation options in Campbell Town cater to a range of preferences.

Ivy on Glenelg is a cozy choice, offering garden views and a welcoming atmosphere just a short stroll from key attractions. Nearby, the Colonial Cottage of Ross provides a historical experience in a convict-built home from the 1830s.

Eat & Drink

Campbell Town’s food scene highlights local flavors and comforting favorites. The Book Cellar, set within the historic Foxhunters Return inn, pairs coffee and treats with a literary experience in its convict-built cellars. Along High Street, various cafés and bakeries serve everything from hearty breakfasts to fresh pastries, perfect for fueling your exploration.

Getting to Campbell Town

Campbell Town’s central location makes it easily accessible by car via the Midland Highway. Regular bus services also connect the town with major cities like Hobart and Launceston, making it a convenient stop for both self-driving adventurers and those relying on public transport.

Visitors will find Campbell Town well-equipped with amenities, including a visitor information center offering maps and guides to local attractions. Blackburn Park, a riverside space with playgrounds and BBQ facilities, is ideal for families looking for a relaxing break.