Longford is situated 27 kilometres south of Launceston, and can easily claim to be one of the oldest towns in northern Tasmania, as it was first settled in 1813. The town is named after a namesake in Ireland, and was known as Letour until 1833. The first settlers were Norfolk Islanders, and the surrounding area became known as Norfolk Plains. By 1818 an important wheat trading link had been established between Longford, Melbourne and Sydney.

The town itself had its beginnings in 1827 when the first hotel opened for business. An important pioneering family in the area around this time was the Archer family, who built several historic properties including Woolmers, built for Thomas Archer in 1818, and Brickendon, built in 1831 for William Archer.

The town still retains its historic atmosphere, to which visitors who stroll through the streets will attest. This picturesque town with its hawthorn lined lanes and roads has been classified by the National Trust.

Museums and Historic Sites

Two interesting historical attractions of the area are Woolmers and Brickendon, two estates which reflect the pastoral heritage of this district. They both date back to the early nineteenth century and were run by Thomas and William Archer, and today they are National Trust listed.

The former arrived in 1813 and started the estate Woolmers. Visitors can see the house, originally built in 1819, but with its various additions and redecorations taking place over the years. The house still has many of the original paintings and other interesting features dating back to the last century, and the coachhouse and stables still stand. William arrived in 1823 and began work on what was to Brickendon. He used fine architects and skilled tradesmen, all of which is reflected in the quality of the buildings. The cottage which he himself lived in still stands, and is where you will find a museum today.

There is a coachhouse, stables, blacksmith's shop, shearing shed and cookhouse all to be seen. There are also six hectares of parklands to wander through, much of which was planted in the 1830s. You can enjoy a guided tour of either estate, and for further information phone (003) 91 1251, or contact a Tasmanian Travel Centre.

Longford has many fine examples of Colonial and Georgian architecture lining its streets. Many of the churches were convict built, with the Catholic Church and the Anglican Christ Church with its historic cemetery being of particular interest.

Georgian style cottages and buildings today serve as shops and craft galleries. The Country Club Hotel in Longford is renowned for its display of memorabilia pertaining to the motor racing past of Longford.

Natural Attractions

The Mill Dam Reserve on the banks of the meandering Esk River has picnic sites, walking trails and a variety of watersports activities such as swimming, fishing and water skiing. Observe deer and other species of fauna at the Longford Wildlife Park, located on the grounds of the Mount Ireh Property. Bowthorpe Farms Walks and Gardens invite visitors to stroll around their peaceful gardens and across paddocks to the banks of the River Esk.

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