Richmond Historic Village: Tasmania’s Georgian time capsule near Hobart

About 25 km northeast of Hobart, Richmond delights visitors with cobbled charm, stone arches, and stories from Tasmania’s convict past. Set in the Coal River Valley, this well-preserved Georgian township gathers more than 50 historic buildings into a compact, walkable setting. 

It is an easy day trip that feels like stepping into the 1820s, with green riverbanks where ducks glide by, church spires above the rooftops, and bakeries, galleries, and tea rooms tucked into colonial cottages.

Why do people go to Richmond?

Richmond is the kind of place that rewards both wandering and delving into history, set among vineyards in the Coal River Valley about 25 minutes from Hobart. Visitors come to walk the convict-era streets, photograph Richmond Bridge (Australia’s oldest stone span bridge, built 1823–25), tour the Richmond Gaol (Australia’s oldest intact colonial gaol), and explore family attractions such as Old Hobart Town Model Village, a miniature window into the 1820s. Cafés, bakeries and cellar doors round out an easy half-day stop on a campervan itinerary.

How long should I spend in Richmond?

If you are based in Hobart, Richmond works beautifully as a half-day or full-day outing. 

Allow 3-4 hours or half a day for a highlights loop: bridge viewpoints, a self-guided gaol visit, a stroll along Bridge & Wellington Streets for shops and cafés, and time at Old Hobart Town. 

If you prefer an unhurried pace, consider staying overnight to enjoy the village in the calm of early morning and late afternoon. An overnight stay also makes it easy to pair Richmond with nearby vineyards in the Coal River Valley.

How to get to Richmond

Richmond sits roughly a 30-minute drive northeast of Hobart, making it one of Tasmania’s simplest day trips. You can get there via the Tasman Highway/A3 and Richmond Road (B31), also signed as part of the Convict Trail. It’s an easy detour on east-coast or Port Arthur routes, and a popular first stop after collecting a campervan near Hobart Airport.

Best time to visit Richmond

Richmond is a year-round destination thanks to its mild, temperate climate and compact, walkable layout. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and garden colour, while summer offers long evenings. Winter is quieter but can be crisp and showery, so pack a warm layer. Refer to Tasmania’s seasonal guidance to make sure you’re packing right.

Mornings in Richmond are calmer at the bridge for reflections, and by late afternoon, light warms the sandstone. If you’re planning multiple paid attractions, arrive by mid-morning to fit everything comfortably before they close by 5:00 pm.

Weather in Richmond

Expect a mild, temperate climate with rainfall spread throughout the year and an average annual temperature of around 13°C. However, prepare for changeable conditions: sun, wind and passing showers are all possible in a single day.

Summers are generally warm rather than hot, and winters are cool enough for a jacket and layers, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Pack a light rain shell, comfortable walking shoes for the village streets and river paths, and sun protection in every season.

Best place to park your campervan in Richmond

• Village parking (daytime): Richmond has free parking around the Village Green and Park area and on surrounding streets near Bridge Street; facilities include public toilets. These spots suit day visits in small to medium campervans, but always check local signs for any limits.

• Overnight options: There is no freedom camping in the historic core. Use Richmond Caravan & Cabin Park - it has powered and unpowered sites, and is a short walk to town.

Must-see highlights and quick answers

1. What is special about Richmond Bridge?
   It’s Australia’s oldest surviving large stone bridge, completed in 1825 by convict labour - a National Heritage-listed site spanning the Coal River.

2. Is Richmond Gaol worth visiting?
   Yes, self-guided rooms and cells interpret early colonial history; open 09:00–17:00 with paid entry. 

3. What is Old Hobart Town?
   An outdoor model village recreating 1820s Hobart; ticketed with accessibility features and on-site facilities.

4. How far is Richmond from Hobart?
   Around a 25-minute drive (25 km), making it ideal as a half-day after airport pickup or as a detour on east-coast routes.

5. Is there a village map or heritage walk?
   Yes; local guides publish a Richmond Heritage Walk and maps highlighting key sites, viewpoints and facilities.

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