Ross is an idyllic village with a rich colonial and convict heritage in Tasmania’s historic Midlands region. Step back in time to Tasmania’s colonial past as you explore the town’s collection of heritage buildings, many of which were built by convict work gangs and are open to the public. Stroll through the town centre to experience one of the finest preserved 19th-century villages in Australia, and imagine the colonial settlers attempting to recreate a typical English town in this rugged, faraway land.
Centrally located in the Midlands between Launceston and Hobart, Ross was an important trading town for the surrounding farms and a stopover for horse-drawn carriages travelling between the two major cities.
Begin your visit to Ross in the town centre, where 40 historic buildings can be found within a three-block radius. Many of the buildings are constructed from sandstone. You’ll find the convict women’s workhouse, known as the Female Factory, as well as the famous Ross Bridge.
The Ross Bridge was built by two convict stonemasons, who were freed upon completion of the structure in 1836. Among the 186 carvings within the bridge’s sandstone, you can find images of animals, birds, insects, plants and Celtic deities.
Continue your journey into the town’s past at the Tasmanian Wool Centre where you can learn about the region’s agricultural history and pick up a knitted souvenir.
The town’s main crossroads lie at the intersection of Bridge Street and Church Street. Nicknamed the “Four Corners of Ross”, each corner has a specific role. You’ll find Recreation (Town Hall), Salvation (the church), Damnation (the gaol) and Temptation (the local pub) at this compact crossroads.
Stop by the Ross Village Bakery and grab some freshly baked goods to take to the banks of the meandering Macquarie River. Enjoy a picnic while you take in views of the Ross Bridge. Drop a line and try your luck fishing for trout.
Ross is located in the heart of Tasmania, 78 kilometres (48.4 miles) south of Launceston and 117 kilometres (72.7 miles) north of Hobart. Buses to Ross depart daily from Launceston and Hobart. Include Ross in your journey along the Midlands’ Heritage Highway, a tourist route that passes by heritage villages such as Evandale, Campbell Town and Oatlands.
