Depart from Hobart | Richmond Historic Tour

Located in eastern Tasmania, Australia, Richmond is a town steeped in colonial history and natural beauty, like a 'living history museum'. For a one‑day journey weaving together the threads of the colonial era and the warmth of local life, the combined route of 'Derwent Entertainment Centre, Richmond, Richmond Gaol' is the most soulful choice.

The Derwent Entertainment Centre, though named 'Entertainment', holds little‑known historical secrets. This brick‑and‑stone building, constructed in the mid‑19th century, was originally a social hub for locals—farmers exchanged grain prices here, artisans gathered to discuss their crafts, and it even served as a temporary court to mediate neighbourhood disputes. Now restored, it retains its arched portico and original timber beams. The ground floor houses the permanent 'Richmond Living History Exhibition', featuring old photographs, farming tools, and handwoven woollen blankets, detailing the town's journey from pioneering to prosperity.

The highlight is the interactive area: visitors can try sitting in a century‑old rocking chair, or 'join' a 19th‑century market through virtual projection, instantly becoming part of history. Why is it a must‑visit? It is the gateway to understanding the 'people' stories of Richmond—history is never just cold years, but the warmth of tea‑time chats, labour, and laughter.

【Itinerary Time】

This itinerary is available from: May to October

Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Saturday

Time: 13:10 ‑ 17:00

Total Duration: 4 hours 50 minutes

Route / Highlights: Derwent Entertainment Centre, Richmond, Richmond Gaol

The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic or weather conditions

Following the cobblestone path into the heart of the town brings you to historic Richmond itself.

'A Living History Scene'—as you walk through Georgian‑style shops (now mostly antique stores and artisan bakeries) and white‑walled cottages, the air is filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon apple pie, where the rhythm of the colonial era and contemporary vibrancy blend perfectly.

More surprises await nearby: a 5‑minute walk leads to the Richmond Historical Museum, displaying convict shackles and pioneer diaries; around the corner, the honey cake at 'The Richmond Pantry' café is said to be made using a 19th‑century recipe.

The finale, Richmond Gaol, reveals the darker side of colonial history.

'Experiential Tour': Follow an actor‑guide dressed in a prisoner's uniform into the damp cells, listen to the 'warden' recount the cruelty of flogging and hard labour; visit the 'solitary cell' that once held female prisoners, where scratch marks from fingernails remain on the walls.

These forgotten hardships and struggles form the backdrop of today's freedom and tolerance. The gaol's adjacent farm still preserves the original vegetable plots, allowing visitors to experience weeding and feeding sheep, feeling the historical concept of 'reform through punishment'.