Oatlands is a charming heritage town located along the Heritage Highway. It is one of Tasmania’s oldest settlements with over 150 sandstone buildings gracing its streets. The impressive Georgian buildings of the 1800s have found new life and are now home to cosy cafes, antique stores, galleries and boutique accommodation.
A visit to Oatlands is like stepping back in time and it will only take one visit to be swept away by the town’s charms.
Take a stroll around Lake Dulverton
Located adjacent to the Oatlands’ High Street is the beautiful Lake Dulverton. A sanctuary for waterbirds and an important wetland for threatened and migratory birds, Lake Dulverton is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for the grazing cattle sculptures that sit in the shallows of the water. The cattle represent a bygone era where cows used to roam the streets of Oatlands before wading into the shallows of the lake to feed on the native grasses.
Pick up the key to the city
Always fancied having your own key to the city? Now you can! The ‘Oatlands Key’ provides visitors the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of some of the town’s most important historic buildings. Access to the 1829 Supreme Courthouse, 1836 Gaoler’s Residence, and 1827 Commissariat is available for visitors to explore. There are also archaeological and heritage collections and information panels on display.
You can pick up your key from any Oatlands business displaying the Oatlands Key sign. A deposit is required at the time of obtaining the key, which is fully refundable on its return.
Explore the antiques stores, boutiques and galleries
Behind the facade of some of the impressive sandstone buildings, you will find some wonderful antique stores, boutiques, and galleries.
For garden lovers, a visit to the Jardin Room is a must. Here you will find a unique array of European-inspired garden decor, sourced from around the world, in a stunning garden setting. The Jardin Room’s sister property, Provincial Interiors, features a fine range of antiques and interior furnishings.
Antique lovers will have a great time wandering around Oatlands Antiques and Collectables. Filled with interesting pieces and unusual items there is a little something for everyone!
Oatlands is also home to some beautiful art galleries. Still Wild Studio Gallery is a restored sandstone building featuring art glass made by on-site artist Natasha Fogel, along with contemporary wooden Tasmanian made furniture.
While you are wandering the Oatlands streets, be sure to pop into the local boutiques. The Lucky Ewe is a great stop for those looking to stock up their wool supplies with their sister shop, The Weavers Cottage Studio, selling some beautifully handmade knitted products and gifts.
The quaint Elm Cottage Store is also a must visit when exploring Oatlands. The lifestyle boutique store offers a beautiful range of clothing, linen, gifts and homewares.
Feast on local produce
When visiting Oatlands, be sure to drop into one of the cosy cafes for a hearty feed. The recently refurbished Kentish Tasmania is a great place to enjoy a meal, a drink at the bar or a coffee by the fire. For delicious coffee, cake and fresh pastries, be sure to visit Vintage on High. On a sunny day, sit outside in the beautiful gardens and enjoy your surroundings.
Visitors with a sweet tooth will be in heaven at the Oatlands Pancake and Crepe Shop. Known for their delicious pancakes, the shop also has a lovely menu of light meals and drinks.
Settle in at The Imbibers
Taste some Tasmanian delights at the quaint wine bar, The Imbibers. The old brick exposed walls and timber beams offer a warm, heritage feel with contemporary touches throughout. Offering an excellent selection of Tasmanian wine and spirits, along with grazing platters and small plates, Imbibers is the perfect place to settle in for an afternoon.
Enjoy cosy, heritage accommodation
Stay overnight in Oatlands and allow yourself plenty of time to explore the historic town. Raffah House offers a beautiful country style stay with all the creature comforts. Originally the town’s maternity hospital (c.early 1900s), Raffah has been thoughtfully restored to blend heritage details with contemporary design.
The Elm Cottage Barn also offers heritage accommodation in the heart of Oatlands. Built-in 1837 this beautiful sandstone barn offers rustic country charm combined with luxurious details. Wake up and enjoy breakfast in the beautiful garden surrounding the barn.
The Lodgings also offers lovely accommodation in Oatlands with the option of a two-bedroom cottage, king studio suite or double studio cottage to choose from. Located in the heritage Robinsons Cottage (c.1837) The Lodgings has been thoughtfully renovated, offering cosy accommodation for travellers.
Discover the Callington Mill Distillery
A prominent feature in the Oatlands skyline is the old Callington Mill. Built in 1837 the mill once produced and sold flour in the town. Nowadays, it’s home to the Callington Mill Distillery which offers immersive and unique single malt experiences, cellar door dinning featuring fresh local produce and self-guided distillery tours and free Heritage Tours.
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Header Image: Oatlands High Street, Lydia Peacock Photography
