If you’ve ever driven along the Midlands Highway, you’ve likely sped past historic Oatlands without even realising it. Exploring this picturesque little town requires a short detour off the main highway – but with the iconic sails of Callington Mill clearly visible from the road, at least it’s not too tricky to find.
Stepping into the quiet streets of Oatlands feels like an invitation to slow down and enjoy some of the finer things in life.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best food and drink spots, scenic walks, and unique attractions that make understated Oatlands a must-visit destination in Tasmania.
Food and drink in Oatlands
For a small, regional town, Oatlands punches well above its weight when it comes to places to pick up some tasty food.
Head to the High Street for pizzas, woodfired bread and sweet treats at Bunch – a friendly café that does breakfast and lunch. They also have a well-stocked providore full of Tasmanian goods for you to take with you when you get back on the road.
For more sweet treats, you can’t beat The Pancake and Crepe Shop. Their pancake dishes, which include Dutch Apple Crumble and Mixed Berry, are incredibly generously proportioned. Meanwhile their contemporary takes on old classics, including Lemon Slices, Jelly Slices and Custard Tarts are somehow even more delicious than they look.
On sunny days, Vintage on High is always a popular choice. This quirky little café has a lovely outdoor garden with seating – the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and a light lunch.
For something more substantial, head to The Kentish – a bistro menu and café menu both showcase Tasmanian produce prepared well. A woodfire in winter and beer garden in summer make this refurbished country pub a great choice at any time of year.
No guide to Oatlands would be complete without an honourable mention for Mood Food – a Tasmanian institution located a 20-minute drive south. This top-notch roadhouse, which has been going strong for more than 50 years, serves up burgers, sandwiches and barista made coffee. Grab a spot in one of the booths and settle in – or just pick up some snacks to go, and continue on to the Old Kempton Distillery for a tour and tastings.
Walks in Oatlands
Oatlands is surrounded by some of Tasmania’s prettiest landscapes, offering a variety of scenic walks that are perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Whether you’re keen to discover the town’s natural beauty or explore its historic sites, there are plenty of walking trails to suit your interests.
Southern Midlands Council has produced booklets with details of several self-guided walking tours in the town of Oatlands itself. These maps are available online and are also stocked by many local businesses. Highlights of the street tour include the numerous Georgian sandstone buildings along the High Street, while the military precinct tour includes the Supreme Court House, Gaol, Commissariat Store, and Old Barracks.
For nature lovers, the Lake Dulverton Walk offers is a wonderful, peaceful option for a leisurely stroll. There is a 7km walking track that follows the lake’s foreshore to the village of Parattah.
Lake Dulverton is a sanctuary for waterbirds, and more than 80 bird species have been recorded here. Keep an eye out too for the Cows in the Lake sculpture – this unique feature represents the era when cows roamed the streets of Oatlands before wading into the lake to feed on native grasses.
If Oatlands is your base, but you’re keen to explore further afield around this central Tasmanian region, nearby Bothwell is another great option for keen walkers.
After an easy 35-minute drive from Oatlands, you can pick up a self-guided walking brochure from the Golf Museum, and then set off to explore the historic town and beautiful surrounding landscapes.
Activities and attractions in Oatlands
Originally developed as a Garrison town in 1821, Oatlands is still best known for its beautifully preserved, convict-built sandstone buildings. There are 150 of them, including almost 90 along the town’s main street, many of which now house shops, galleries, cafes, and bars.
This unique streetscape – combined with several wonderful antique shops, such as Jardin Room and Provincial Interiors – make Oatlands an essential visit for anyone interested in Tasmanian heritage and history.
The ‘Oatlands Key’ allows visitors to tour some of the town’s most important historic buildings, including the Supreme Courthouse (built in 1829), the Gaoler’s Residence (built 1836), and the Commissariat (built 1827). You can pick up your key from the Council Chambers or one of the businesses in the town that displays the Oatlands Key sign. A deposit is required at the time of obtaining the key, which is refundable on its return.
The most prominent landmark in Oatlands is Callington Mill, Australia’s third-oldest windmill that was built in 1837. The mill once produced flour, which was then sold in the town, but these days it’s home to the award-winning Callington Mill Distillery, which offers immersive single malt experiences, a spectacular cellar door featuring fresh local produce, self-guided distillery tours and free Heritage Tours. If you need a little retail therapy as a break from the history lessons, there is an abundance of small, locally owned shops that are wonderful for browsing. Some highlights include: An Artistic Affair, a contemporary art gallery featuring many Tasmanian artists and curated by textile artist Rebecca Kissling; Tidbit and Morsel for premium local produce; The Weavers Cottage Studio for art, accessories and homewares; and Elm Cottage Store for clothing.
– Ruth Dawkins ( commissioned by Freycinet Resort)