Longford Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Longford, Tasmania with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and where to stay in this charming town.


Introduction to Longford

Located in Eastern Tasmania, Longford is a charming town with a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. It was established in 1813 and boasts a variety of cultural and outdoor attractions. Longford is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities and take in the peacefulness of a smaller town.

List of Places to Visit in Longford

From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures, Longford has something for everyone. Here are some must-visit attractions in Longford:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Brickendon Estate: A world heritage site featuring a collection of unique buildings that showcase the architecture and lifestyle of early colonial settlers.
  • Woolmers Estate: A former sheep farm converted into a museum, showcasing the history of the wool industry in Tasmania.
  • Longford Town Centre: A preserved Georgian town with local shops and eateries that showcase the town’s heritage.

Natural Attractions of Longford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cataract Gorge Reserve: A stunning natural reserve with walking trails and a variety of activities including swimming, fishing, and rock-climbing.
  • Great Western Tiers: An impressive mountain range located just outside of Longford, offering hiking and views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Macquarie River: The perfect spot for fishing or relaxing by the water, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Longford

There are several hiking and biking routes in Longford and its surrounding areas. Some notable routes include:

  • Cataract Gorge Circuit: A 6-kilometer circular trail that takes hikers through stunning natural sites such as Gorge Lookout, the Zig Zag Track, and the First Basin.
  • Great Western Tiers Circuit: A multi-day hike that takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking views of the Great Western Tiers mountain range.
  • Macquarie River Ride: A 20-kilometer flat ride that follows the Macquarie River and offers views of the surrounding farmland.

Best Things to Do in Longford: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for something adventurous or more laid-back, Longford has plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Longford:

  • Fly fishing: With its abundance of rivers and streams, Longford is the perfect destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts.
  • Wine Tasting: Longford is home to several wineries that offer tastings of local wines, as well as tours of their vineyards and winemaking facilities.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a guided tour of the beautiful countryside on horseback, experiencing the town and its surroundings in a unique way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Longford

If you have a week to spend in Longford, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1st Day Explore the town center and visit Brickendon Estate
2nd Day Visit Woolmers Estate and go fly fishing on the Macquarie River
3rd Day Take a wine tasting tour
4th Day Visit the Cataract Gorge Reserve and go rock climbing
5th Day Go on a horseback riding tour
6th Day Go on a hike along the Great Western Tiers
7th Day Explore the town and try the local food and drinks

Food and Drink Scene of Longford

Longford is known for its local produce, from its fresh seafood to locally made wines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Scallop Pies: A savory pie filled with Tasmanian scallops and other delicious ingredients such as cream and vegetables.
  • Lamb: Tasmania is known for its world-class lamb, and many local restaurants serve it as a delicious dish.

Local Beverages

  • Tasmanian Wine: Tasmanian wineries produce some of the best wine in the world due to the ideal climate and soil conditions. A variety of local wines can be found throughout town.

Where to Stay in Longford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Longford has a variety of accommodation options at different price points for visitors to choose from. Hotels, hostels, and guesthouses are all available. Here are some options:

  • Blakes Manor Self-Contained Heritage Accommodation: A guesthouse housed in a historic Georgian-style mansion, offering luxurious accommodations.
  • Longford Boutique Accommodation: A boutique hotel with modern, stylish decor that offers a unique luxury experience.
  • Longford Riverside Caravan Park: An affordable option for families, offering caravan and tent sites as well as cabins and cottages.

What to Buy in Longford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Longford offers visitors a variety of locally made items to bring home as souvenirs. Here are some popular options:

  • Wool products: Local wool and wool products can be found at several shops around town, including woolen blankets, sweaters, and scarves.
  • Artisan jams and preserves: Locally made jams and preserves featuring Tasmanian fruits and vegetables can be found at various shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Longford

Longford celebrates its heritage and culture through various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Tasmanian Craft Fair and the Longford Show. The town is also known for its friendly and welcoming community.

Best Time to Visit Longford

The best time to visit Longford is during the summer months, between December and February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the town’s natural beauty during the cooler months with its autumn foliage and crisp winter landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Longford

Do:

  • Respect the local wildlife: Longford is home to a variety of wildlife such as echidnas, possums, and wombats. Visitors should not try to interact with these animals and respect their natural habitat.
  • Take advantage of the local produce: Longford is known for its fresh seafood and locally produced wine. Be sure to try these local delicacies while you’re visiting.
  • Enjoy the natural landscape: Longford and its surrounding areas have some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Australia. Make sure to take advantage of the scenic views and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Visitors should dispose of trash properly to help keep Longford clean and beautiful.
  • Harass the local wildlife: Visitors should not disrupt the local wildlife or their natural habitat, and should never feed them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Longford

Longford is a generally safe and peaceful town, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone after dark.
  • Take precautions when swimming or rock climbing in the area, and only do so with an experienced guide.
  • Follow posted signs and warnings when traveling in natural areas.

Health in Longford

Longford and Tasmania have high standards of healthcare facilities and services. Visitors should be up to date on routine vaccinations and take necessary precautions for any outdoor activities.

Getting to Longford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Longford

The closest airport to Longford is Launceston Airport, which is approximately 17.5km away. Visitors can arrange private or public transport from the airport to the town center.

Bus Stations Near Longford

Tasmania-wide bus services are available, with often several trips daily between Hobart, Launceston, and other major towns and regions, including Longford.

Other Options

Car rental is available around Tasmania and Longford.

How to Get Around in Longford

While Longford is a small town, it is still helpful to have transportation to explore the surrounding area. Rental cars, bikes, and taxis are all available.

Where to Go Next from Longford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Longford is just a short drive from several other charming towns and natural attractions in Tasmania. Here are some suggested nearby destinations to visit:

  • Launceston: Tasmania’s second largest city, only 20km away from Longford, is known for its rich history, culture, and delicious food.
  • Cradle Mountain-Lake Saint Clair National Park: A world heritage site with some of the most spectacular natural views in Tasmania, located approximately 1.5 hours away from Longford.
  • Bridestowe Lavender Estate: A stunning lavender farm that is a must-visit attraction in Tasmania, located approximately 1 hour away from Longford.

Conclusion

Longford and its surrounding areas offer visitors breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history, and a warm and welcoming community. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or a relaxing vacation, Longford is the perfect destination for your next trip.

Browns Big Store, one of Longford's oldest stores Browns Big Store, one of Longford's oldest stores