Woolmers Estate
Explore 18 original heritage buildings, Australia’s National Rose Garden and the award-winning UNSHACKLED Exhibition, all at your own pace.
The Convict Story You Haven't Heard
Most people know the convict story of punishment and chains. Woolmers Estate tells the other story. Founded in 1817 by Thomas Archer in Longford, Tasmania, this is where convicts were assigned under the Assignment System, learning trades, developing skills, and earning their freedom. Many chose to stay.
The convicts who were assigned here built the foundations of Woolmers. Six generations of the Archer family carried the story forward from 1817 until 1994. Today, 18 original buildings still stand across 82 hectares on the banks of the Macquarie River, making Woolmers one of Australia’s most intact colonial farm estates and one of Tasmania’s most significant heritage sites.
Explore the award-winning UNSHACKLED Exhibition, walk through 200 years of convict and colonial history, and discover Australia’s National Rose Garden, all at your own pace.
Explore our heritage buildings
18 Heritage Buildings
One of Australia's most complete collections of colonial buildings, spanning 82 hectares. From the grand Italianate homestead to one of the oldest surviving two-storey shearing sheds in Australia, every structure tells a story of convict craftsmanship and pioneer life.
UNSHACKLED Exhibition
An immersive digital experience telling the stories of 75,000 convicts transported to Van Diemen’s Land. Walk through the journey from conviction to freedom — emotional, confronting, unforgettable.
- 45–60 min self-guided experience
- Digital interactive displays
- Original convict artefacts
- AI-generated convict portraits
- Included with general admission
- Seasonal
- Open access
National Rose Garden
Over 5,000 roses across 1.53 hectares, including heritage varieties and the celebrated Festival of Roses. Peak bloom from October to February draws visitors from across Australia.
Rose Garden
5,000+ roses
Walk the path convicts once walked
- 2.8 km
- Self-guided
The Convict Walk
Cross the suspension bridge connecting both World Heritage properties. A self-paced journey through 200 years of convict and colonial history, with interpretive signs along the route.
- Open daily
- All visitors
Nigel Peck Centre
The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Conservation is the starting point for every visit. Modern facilities housed within a heritage context — café, gift shop, exhibition spaces, and ticketing.
Woolmers Experience
90 min guided tour
Heritage Interiors
The Cider House
- 90 min
- Max 7
Guided Tour
Step inside the grand Italianate homestead with original family contents displayed as heirlooms, not reconstructions. Six generations of one family lived here continuously until 1994.
Experience living history
Open Daily from 8am
Last grounds entry: 4pm
Grounds close: 6:30pm
Location
20 minutes from Launceston
17 minutes from Launceston Airport
Tasmanian Residents
FREE entry when bringing interstate or overseas guests