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Discover Bothwell, Tasmania – A Visitor’s Guide

A Tassie town full of character, history and a cracking good golf course.

  • Bothwell, Tasmania. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council

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Discover Bothwell, Tasmania – A Visitor’s Guide

Just over an hour’s drive from Hobart and a cruisy two hours from Launceston, Bothwell is the kind of place that rewards those who stray a little off the beaten path.

Settled by Scottish farmers in the 1820s, Bothwell wears its heritage with pride – and a splash of tartan. With more than 50 heritage-listed buildings (many carved from local sandstone), a historic church or two, and the oldest golf course in Australia, it’s a place that celebrates its past while still rolling out the welcome mat to today’s travellers.

Central Highlands Touring Map

Getting to Bothwell

Bothwell is an easy and scenic drive from Tasmania’s major cities – just over an hour from Hobart (around 80 km) and under two hours from Launceston (about 140 km). Most visitors arrive by car, and to be honest, that’s the best way to go. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to stop at roadside farm gates, take in sweeping Highland views, and veer off the main road if a country bakery or historic church catches your eye – which they will.

From Hobart, head north via the Brooker Highway and Midlands Highway (A1), then turn onto Highland Lakes Road (A5) at Melton Mowbray. It’s a straightforward drive, with a few lovely detour options if you’re in no rush.

If you’re coming from Launceston, take the Midlands Highway south to Melton Mowbray, then turn right onto Highland Lakes Road. It’s a smooth run, with rolling paddocks and big skies along the way.

→ Google Map Directions – From Hobart | From Launceston

St Lukes Uniting Church, Bothwell. Image Credit: Darren Wright
St Lukes Uniting Church, Bothwell. Image Credit: Darren Wright

A Town Steeped in History

If walls could talk, Bothwell’s sandstone buildings would have a lot to say. Settled in the 1820s by Scottish farmers, the town quickly became a hub for grazing, religion, and recreation in Tasmania’s high country. The Scottish influence still runs deep – from the tartan-patterned street signs to the lingering echoes of Gaelic sermons once preached from local pulpits.

More than 50 buildings in Bothwell are heritage-listed, and many still serve their original purpose today. Take a walk through the wide, quiet streets and you’ll find beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian architecture at every turn. St Luke’s Uniting Church, built in 1831, is one of the oldest in the country. It’s a striking sight – simple, elegant, and full of history.

Alexander Street, Bothwell. Image Credit: Darren Wright
Alexander Street, Bothwell. Image Credit: Darren Wright
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Jazz Wright
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Jazz Wright
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Jazz Wright
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Jazz Wright
Old Bothwell Post Office. Image Credit: Darren Wright
Old Bothwell Post Office. Image Credit: Darren Wright
Bothwell Tasmania. Image Credit: Darren Wright
Bothwell Tasmania. Image Credit: Darren Wright

Visitor Centre & Australian Golf Museum

Right in the heart of Bothwell’s historic precinct, the Central Highlands Visitor Centre is your first stop for local insights and maps. Open daily from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm (hours may vary). The centre also features displays of local crafts and historical artefacts. Plus, it’s conveniently situated near Queens Park and the Bothwell Caravan Park.

The old schoolhouse now houses the Australian Golf Museum, a nod to the town’s pioneering place in sporting history (more on that later), and you’ll spot other historic gems like the Castle Hotel (licensed in 1829) and colonial-era cottages that look like they’ve stepped straight out of a storybook.

 

Central Highlands Visitor Centre, Bothwell. Image Credit: Darren Wright
Central Highlands Visitor Centre, Bothwell. Image Credit: Darren Wright

Not many towns outside of the UK can claim their own tartan, but the Bothwell tartan is Tasmania’s only official tartan. Designed and developed in Bothwell by Isabella Shorrock, a Scot, the tartan’s inspiration is the blue-green-grey, rich red, and yellow hues of the local landscape. Beautifully woven throw rugs are available for purchase from the town’s Visitor Centre. Reference – The Scottish Register of Tartans

Bothwell Tartan

Ratho Farm: Australia’s Oldest Golf Course

If you’re keen to tee off somewhere truly special, Ratho Farm is the crown jewel of Bothwell. Set on a working sheep property just outside town, this is Australia’s oldest golf course – laid out in the 1830s by homesick Scottish settlers who clearly couldn’t imagine life without a decent round. It’s not just historic – it’s proper links-style golf, with wide open fairways, gently rolling ground, and, yes, sheep still doing a bit of the greenkeeping.

But Ratho Farm is more than just a place to swing a club. It’s a fully restored heritage property offering boutique accommodation in lovingly converted convict-era barns and stables. Each room has its own character, with rustic features that reflect the farm’s past and modern touches that make for a comfy night’s stay. You can even sleep where bushrangers, politicians, and early settlers once passed through – minus the candlelight and corrugated bedding.

Guests can also enjoy fly fishing in the Clyde River, explore walking trails around the property, or just soak up the peaceful Highland scenery with a local pinot in hand. There’s a homely honesty bar in the main lodge, where tales flow as easily as the whisky, and the hosts are always happy to share the history of the place.

Whether you’re staying overnight, stopping by for a round of golf, or just keen to see where Australia’s golfing story began, Ratho Farm is a must-visit. It’s history, hospitality and Highland charm – all rolled into one.

Ratho Farm
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett
Ratho Farm Image Credit: Lusy Productions
Ratho Farm Image Credit: Lusy Productions
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett
Ratho Farm. Image Credit: Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett

Clyde Mill Distillery and Kitchen

Clyde Mill Distillery, set on the historic former Nant Estate in Bothwell, Tasmania, is a newly reimagined destination that blends heritage, craft, and hospitality.

Drawing its name from the Clyde River that flows through the property, the distillery produces premium small-batch spirits including single malt whisky (laid down to mature in select casks) and a signature Highland Gin, while also offering a restaurant, cellar door, and tours to create an inclusive visitor experience.

Clyde Mill Distillery and Kitchen
Clyde Mill Distillery and Kitchen
Clyde Mill Distillery and Kitchen

Sealy’s Café & Gifts

In the heart of Bothwell, Sealy’s Café & Gifts is a delightful spot where the aroma of freshly baked goods welcomes you into a space brimming with charm. Housed in a historic building at 12 Alexander Street, this café has become a favourite among locals and travellers alike.

The menu features hearty, home-cooked fare, with highlights including savoury pies, creamy soups, and toasted sandwiches. Their scones, served warm with jam and cream, are particularly popular. 

Beyond the food, Sealy’s offers a selection of gifts and local crafts, making it a perfect stop to find a unique souvenir. 

Sealy’s Café & Gifts
Sealy's Cafe & Gifts. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council
Sealy's Cafe & Gifts. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council
Sealy's Cafe & Gifts. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council
Castle Hotel, Bothwell. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council
Castle Hotel, Bothwell. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council
Bothwell Post Office. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council
Bothwell Post Office. Image Credit: Nicole Sanders and Central Highlands Council

Where to Stay in Bothwell & Surrounds

Accommodation in and around Bothwell offers the perfect mix of heritage charm and country comfort. Right in town, The Butcher’s House is a cosy 1840s cottage that once belonged to the local butcher. These days it’s a beautifully restored two-bedroom retreat, complete with antique touches, a wood fire, and a clawfoot bath. Just a few minutes away, Ratho Farm offers boutique accommodation in restored convict-era buildings, ideal for travellers keen to wake up beside Australia’s oldest golf course.

For those wanting a little more space and serenity, Rathmore is a standout. Set on a peaceful 1828 sheep property just outside of Bothwell, this elegant farmstay features everything from Georgian homestead rooms to rustic Shearers’ Quarters and a self-contained cottage. With trout fishing, wildlife watching, and country walks on your doorstep, it’s a place where you can truly switch off and settle into the rhythms of the Highlands.

Rathmore House
Rathmore, Central Highlands, Tasmania
Rathmore, Central Highlands, Tasmania

Highlands Power Trail: A Journey Through Tassie’s Hydropower Heart

Highlands Power Trail

If you’ve got a curious mind and a love of wide-open spaces, the Highlands Power Trail is your kind of road trip. Starting right here in Bothwell, this self-guided driving trail winds its way through the rugged Central Highlands, telling the story of Tasmania’s pioneering hydroelectric schemes – and the hardy folk who made it happen.

From Bothwell, head north towards the historic village of Waddamana, once the beating heart of Tassie’s hydro industry. Along the way, you’ll pass fascinating points of interest like the Penstock Lagoon and the Waddamana Canal. Stop the car, take in the views, and learn about the extraordinary challenges faced by workers in the early 1900s – building massive infrastructure in some of the state’s harshest conditions.

Highlands Power Trail
Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site

A highlight of the journey is the Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site, Tasmania’s original hydro station, now a museum packed with vintage machinery, photos, and personal stories from the early Hydro days. It’s well worth carving out time for a proper explore – the museum is free to visit and offers a rare glimpse into the grit and ingenuity behind the power that helped shape modern Tasmania.

After Waddamana, rejoin the Highland Lakes Road for the scenic return to Bothwell. The full loop is around 100km and can comfortably be done in a day – just make sure to pack snacks, a camera, and plenty of time to stop and soak it all in.

Waddamana Power Station
Highlands Bushfest, Bothwell

Highlands Bushfest

Each November, Bothwell comes alive with the sights, sounds (and smoky smells) of Highlands Bushfest – a celebration of all things outdoors and country living. It’s a weekend packed with hands-on demos, local know-how, and family-friendly fun. From whip cracking and salami making to hunting tips, meat smoking, and commando runs, there’s a bit of something for everyone – whether you’re a seasoned bushie or just here for the food.

Entry’s just a gold coin donation, with raffles, prizes, and live entertainment adding to the buzz. More than just a good time, Bushfest supports the local community and gives visitors a taste of the region’s wild heart and country soul.

Highlands Bushfest
Picture of Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team

Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team

The Hobart and Beyond Editorial Team is dedicated to bringing you the best insider tips, local stories, and up-to-date guides to exploring southern Tasmania.

Article Details:

Article Created: 12 May 2025
Last Update: 30 January 2026
Author: Darren Wright

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