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8 Dec

Oatlands

The experience of staying at a heritage hotel like Lenna of Hobart kindles a love of historic buildings in many guests. This elegant hotel accommodation on the doorstep of Battery Point and Salamanca Place is attractive to history buffs and romantics alike who want to see more colonial architecture. With a hotel room or suite to suit every traveller, Lenna of Hobart offers a rich cultural and historical experience.

The great news is that Tasmania’s stock of sandstone buildings is unmatched anywhere else in Australia. You can see these buildings along the Hobart waterfront. Another area with an abundance of colonial architecture is Oatlands, located 83 kilometres from Hobart. This town in the rural heart of Tasmania is an easy day-trip from the city.

 History

Oatlands boasts the largest number of sandstone Georgian-era buildings in the country. Established in 1821 by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the township didn’t thrive until 1825 when a military detachment arrived.

In 1832, 80 kilometres of streets were marked out in the belief that Oatlands would grow into a major centre. Over the next decade the town developed rapidly, leading to the construction of more than 150 Georgian buildings, mostly by convicts.

Information about Oatland’s past, including its bushranger stories and farming history, can be found on signs around town.

Major Attractions

  • Callington Mill is the town’s most popular attraction. It was built in 1836, and is still producing flour today. It is the only mill of its kind still operating in the Southern Hemisphere. Visitors are welcome.
  • Oatlands Court House was constructed by convicts in 1829 as a combined Police Office and Chapel. It is the oldest surviving building in town, and is an excellent example of Georgian architecture.
  • Oatlands Gaol was designed by John Lee Archer, who was responsible for many iconic buildings in Hobart. Built in 1837, the gaol was part of a much larger garrison, including barracks and a watch house. Much of it was demolished, but restoration work began in 2007 to return the building to its former glory.
  • White Horse Inn is located on the main street and was built in 1834. Originally called Lake Frederick Inn, it was renamed the White Horse Inn in 1853. The building is worth seeing for its size and grace.
  • Holyrood House was constructed in 1840 by the police magistrate. It was purchased in 1860 by Dr Wells who later sold it to another doctor. As a result, Holyrood House became known by locals as ‘the doctor’s house.’ It is set in 2 acres of established gardens, and is one of the town’s loveliest buildings.

Many of the historic buildings in Oatlands now serve as cafes and antique stores, making it a wonderful place to stop for both history-buffs and those who simply want to soak up the ambience. There is hotel accommodation for those who want to stay the night.

A visit to Oatlands is the perfect way to complement a stay at Lenna of Hobart. The historic buildings in Oatlands are almost as enchanting as the heritage hotel, and the sandstone constructions have been as lovingly preserved as those found on the Hobart waterfront, particularly at Salamanca Place and Battery Point.

After a day of driving and sightseeing, you can unwind in comfort in your hotel room, suite or penthouse ">apartment at Lenna of Hobart. Staying in this memorable, heritage listed hotel is an experience that you wonʼt soon forget. The restored 1874 built mansion offers luxury ">penthouse apartments for those looking for a bit of indulgence. The hotel also offers spacious family suites for those travelling with children or modern hotel rooms. This elegant and historic hotel is sure to make you want to stay here and never go home! If you would like to find out more, contact us at Lenna of Hobart.
Contact:
">Lenna of Hobart
Ph: 1800 030 633 (within Australia)
Ph: +61 36232 3900 (international)
Email:

Photo credit: Tourism Tasmania & Steven French

 

 

 

 

 

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