The Tamar Valley

A short drive north of Launceston, The Tamar Valley is actually on both sides of the river and is referred to as East and West Tamar. West Tamar has the towns of Exeter, Beaconsfield and Beauty Point which all have lots to offer families. The West Tamar really is one big playground and is plenty of fun for kids and adults alike.

Family entertainment in the Tamar Valley

Starting in Riverside, you have the aquatic centre with waterslide, kids’ pools and an Olympic sized main pool. After a refreshing dip the family can go for some more fun at Tailrace Park, which has a massive kid friendly maze, BBQ, playground and loads of space to run around. Don’t miss Kids Paradise at the Tailrace centre, which hosts kids activities non-stop and is a perfect family day out in the Tamar Valley. From the play centre to craft activities, there is sure to be something for everyone. 

Not far away are the Tamar Island Wetlands with a great short walk – you’ll see many birds, frogs and you can also spy on the ducks, swans and other water birds from the hideout. Soak in the ecosystem and don’t forget to stop by the interpretation centre to learn about the culture and nature of the wetlands while breaking for lunch at a picnic table.

Take time to visit the Tassie Devils, meerkats and dinosaurs at Tasmania Zoo and enjoy their huge undercover cafe. With a LetsGoKids voucher that gives you 20 per cent off children’s entry price, it’s not just one of the best things to do in the Tamar Valley, but also a cheap day out. 

Stop in at Grindelwald for paddle boats, mini-golf, a huge jumping pillow and a chocolate café, yes, a CHOCOLATE cafe – feel free to stay a night or two. So many kids activities and things to do, you will WANT to stay. 

Next stop is the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre with tunnels, animal hunts, gold panning and lots of buttons to push, levers to pull and hands on displays. The old-style mine will take the family back in time, while the Mine Rescue Exhibition teaches you more about Australian history by delving into the remarkable story of the rescue of miners Todd Russell and Brant Webb. With a LetsGoKids voucher, one child gets in for free with an accompanying adult to provide a cheap and fun family activity in the Tamar Valley.

Five minutes away you can double up at Beauty Point and see the platypus and echidnas at Platypus House. It’s the perfect excursion to learn about some of Australia’s more amazing native creatures while also soaking up the beautiful waterways around the Tamar Valley. Platypus House also allows one kid in for free with an adult when you use the LetsGoKids voucher to make the most of these unique animals on Beauty Point.

If you want more animal encounters, see seahorses, hermit crabs, starfish and other cool fish at Seahorse World. The guided tour gives you a chance to learn about and be dazzled by the Tasmanian Potbelly Seahorse. Get one child admitted for free with an accompanying full paying adult when you use the LetsGoKids voucher!

Be ‘A-Mazed’ at Glengarry Bush Maze and enjoy great coffee as you make your way along the Tamar. This huge and unique maze is amongst the backdrop of the beautiful Tasmanian Bush and only 15 minutes from the Tamar Valley region, meaning it’s the perfect family day trip. Now relax by the sea with Greens Beach and West Head only 10 minutes away – swim, build sandcastles, catch a fish for dinner and on the way back stop for a picnic at Batman Bridge. Use the LetsGoKids voucher to get 10 per cent off entry, making it easier to have fun at this mecca of children’s entertainment in the Tamar Valley.

But the Tamar Valley is also renowned for its local produce. Pick your own fresh berries at the Hillwood Berries Farmgate – you can spend all day wandering through and choosing the best quality berries before treating yourself to some delectable desserts at the berry inspired café. If you want to go on a tour to see some of Tasmania’s more unique animals, the Low Head Penguin Tour gives you the chance to get up close and personal with these cute creatures. Head off in small groups on the insightful tour, which also prides itself on protecting the penguins’ natural habitat. 

More gorgeous views and tasty food can be had at the Pier Hotel, and the deck gives patrons serene looks at the York Cove Tamar River, as well as a wonderful menu that’ll delight the whole family. Don Mario’s is an authentic Italian and modern Australian restaurant that is a perfect dinner stop for kids and adults alike. 

The Tamar Valley is brimming with adventure and life – take your time to explore the beauty of the Tasmanian region!

Trending Posts