Guide to Colebrook Tasmania Australia

Colebrook, a quiet town in Tasmania’s Southern Midlands, is a place where history and natural beauty intersect. Just a 45-minute drive north of Hobart, Colebrook offers a blend of heritage and tranquility that captures the essence of Tasmania’s heartland. This former convict settlement turned thriving rural community is steeped in stories waiting to be uncovered.

Known For

• Historical convict-era architecture
• Scenic rural landscapes
• St Patrick’s Church, designed by Augustus Pugin

Colebrook’s history is rich and layered, starting with its origins as a convict probation station in the early 1800s. The town was initially called Jerusalem Plains and later Colebrook Dale before adopting its present name in 1894. The remnants of its convict heritage, including barracks and a hospital, provide a tangible link to the past.

The devastating bushfires of 1967 nearly erased this community, but resilience saw it rebuilt, preserving many of its historical treasures. Walking through Colebrook, you can feel the echoes of its colonial history intertwined with the determination of its people.

The architecture of Colebrook is one of its most defining features. At the heart of the town stands St Patrick’s Catholic Church, a masterpiece designed by the Gothic Revival architect Augustus Pugin. The church is one of only three Pugin-designed structures in Tasmania and represents a stunning example of mid-19th-century ecclesiastical design.

Other notable sites include The Chimneys, a National Trust-listed building that has served various roles, including a convent, and the historic sandstone Colebrook Courthouse, built by convict labor. Each structure offers a window into the town’s evolving identity over centuries.

For those eager to explore, Colebrook offers opportunities to connect with its history and surroundings. Historic walking tours, often led by the Colebrook Progress Association, provide an in-depth look at the area’s landmarks and stories.

The rural landscapes surrounding Colebrook are ideal for nature lovers. Rolling hills, open fields, and tranquil pathways invite leisurely walks or bike rides. Nearby, you can explore wineries and farmlands, adding a layer of contemporary rural life to your visit.

Where To Stay

Colebrook is small but hospitable, with accommodations available in nearby towns such as Campania, Brighton, and Richmond.

For a cozy and personal experience, bed-and-breakfasts in the surrounding areas offer a warm welcome and a taste of local life. Campania Hills Vineyard B&B is a standout option, located just a short drive from Colebrook. Surrounded by vineyards, this B&B provides not only comfortable accommodations but also the chance to enjoy local wines and the peacefulness of rural Tasmania.

In the historic town of Richmond, Mulberry Cottage Unique B&B Accommodation offers themed cottages set amidst beautiful gardens. Guests can enjoy a blend of comfort and history, making it a delightful place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Eat & Drink

Dining in the area is equally inviting. Richmond, just a short drive away, is home to charming eateries such as The Pancake and Crepe Shop, known for its delightful meals and welcoming ambiance. For a hearty Australian pub experience, head to Huntington Tavern in Kempton.

Getting to Colebrook

The easiest way to reach Colebrook is by car, taking the B31 route through Tasmania’s scenic Midlands. Public transport options are limited, making a private vehicle the most convenient mode of travel. As you drive, enjoy the picturesque vistas of rural Tasmania that lead you to this historical gem.

Colebrook continues to intrigue visitors with its harmonious blend of history, architecture, and countryside allure.