Deloraine is classified as an historic town by the National Trust, and is situated mid-way between Launceston and Devonport on the Bass Highway in the north west of the State. It seems that the town was named after one of Sir Walter Scott's characters in his work "Lay of the last minstrel", possibly due to the fact that one of Scott's relatives surveyed the area in the 1820s.

The district was first populated by pastoralists and other agricultural pioneers in the 1820s. This followed several expeditions to report on the suitability of the region for agricultural and other land uses in 1823 and 1825 respectively, and the subsequent relaxing of the rigid land laws. Many of the cottages and nearby homesteads date from the 1830s and 1840s.

The railway arrived in Deloraine in 1871, linking the town to Launceston. A dairy factory was opened in 1900.


Museums and Historic Sites

The town has a plethora of colonial buildings which have been restored and converted to serve as shops, galleries and museums.

The Folk Museum in Deloraine has an extensive display of articles relating to the early pastoral days of the community, and its subsequent development.

Arkoona is a grand federation style mansion built for the local doctor before serving as the local Hospital for Deloraine and district. Today the mansion is an exclusive accommodation experience.

St Marks Church of England was constructed in 1857 and is one of the most historic buildings in the town.

The Bowerbank Mill was constructed in 1853 as a hydro powered mill; it was then converted to steam in 1871, and was subsequently closed in 1935. Today it operates as a wonderful bed and breakfast property, which can be thoroughly recommended if you have the opportunity to stay in Deloraine.

There are also a myriad of old mills and homesteads in the surrounding districts worth visiting to capture the historic atmosphere of this town.

Natural Attractions

A drive along the scenic Lake Highway will provide the visitor with a spectacular view of the central highlands and the Great Lake. Mole Creek is a landscape of limestone, and the rugged mountain caves of Marakoopa, and King Solomon are nearby for visitors to explore.

The Western Tiers are another natural marvel not to be missed by visitors to the area as they have excellent walking trails which lead the hiker through abundant native flora and fauna, before finally reaching magnificent viewing points.

The Meander River is perfect for strolling along, picnicking beside or fishing in. The Tasmanian Wildlife Park is a must for all naturalists wishing to see the native wildlife of the island first hand. Visit the Koala Village at Mole Creek, and observe populations of Australia's most recognised symbol as they interact with visitors and their surrounding environment.

Bonney's Farm Day Tours organise trips to all the surrounding natural and historic attractions. Meander Forest Reserve is an ideal venue for bushwalking as it has a diverse flora and fauna composition which may be enjoyed on a stroll along the network of paths.

From Deloraine visitors can drive west through the town of Mole Creek to reach the Walls of Jerusalem National Park.

Other Attractions

Bowerbank Mill is just one of the many arts and crafts centres in Deloraine which have exhibitions of local artists' talent, as well as retailing a wide variety of homemade items and crafts such as pottery, jewellery and knitwear.

Visit Deloraine Antiques and Old Sewing Box Museum to unearth a bargain, or view the display of sewing boxes. Gallery 9 has exhibitions of local artists' works. The Tasmanian Smokehouse must also be viewed.

Horse racing, tennis, bowls, golf and swimming are activities which may be enjoyed by the visitor to Deloraine.

Those wishing to learn the art of fly-fishing can undergo a half day or a full five day course, with all tackle provided at the Tasmanian Fly Fishing School.

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