5 family activities in Launceston and George Town

When it comes to finding family friendly kids activities to enjoy in the Tasmania school holidays, there’s plenty to do in Launceston and George Town. It can be a struggle coming up with ideas to keep the kids entertained over the summer holidays, but we’ve come up with 5 of the best George Town and Launceston kids activities that the whole family will enjoy!

Here are 5 family activities in Launceston and George Town your kids will love.

School holiday activities near George Town

Penguin Tours

Located in Low Head just 5 kilometres north of George Town, Low Head Penguin Tours are an awesome family activity for kids young and old and one of the most popular kids activities in Tasmania. Running every night at sunset, book a tour to spot between 100 to 200 penguins come ashore to return to their burrows. November to February are the best months to visit and spot these cute little flightless seabirds.

Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Rows of lavender at Bridestowe Lavender Estate - Image via Luke Tscharke
Rows of lavender at Bridestowe Lavender Estate – Image via Luke Tscharke

An hours drive from George Town, Bridestowe Lavender Estate is the world’s largest privately owned lavender farm, set on an incredible 260 acres. With over 200 kilometres of lavender rows growing through spring and summer, visitors can get lost in a sea of purple and take some pretty special family photos.

Special gift shop finds at Bridestowe Estate. Image via Tourism Tasmania and Kathryn Leahy
Special gift shop finds at Bridestowe Estate. Image via Tourism Tasmania and Kathryn Leahy

Be sure to try some lavender infused meals at the café and make sure you leave room for some lavender ice-cream and the famous lavender scones. Bridestowe Lavender Estate is open year round. flowers in December through to early February.

Where to stay in George Town

Comfort Inn The Pier in George Town is a 50 minute drive from Launceston airport or 1.5 hour drive from Devonport. With stunning absolute waterfront views of the Tamar River and close proximity to the Tamar Valley Wine Route, Tamar Island Wetlands and Tamar Islands, George Town is the perfect quiet sea-side town for families to enjoy.

School holiday activities near Launceston

Cataract Gorge

Cataract Gorge - Image via Jarrad Seng
Cataract Gorge – Image via Jarrad Seng

For epic views, scenic chair lifts and free roaming peacocks, look no further than Cataract Gorge reserve, located a short 15 minutes walk from Launceston’s city centre. With walking and hiking trails, suspension bridge, swimming pool, restaurant, kiosk and the world’s longest single span chairlift, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained in this city park during the Launceston school holidays as well as during term dates. Spot the wildlife and beautiful peacocks while taking in the spectacular views from the many lookouts.

Stunning peacocks at Cataract Gorge, just 15 minutes walk from Launceston city. Image via Pete Harmsen
Stunning peacocks at Cataract Gorge, just 15 minutes walk from Launceston city. Image via Pete Harmsen

Penny Royal Adventures

If your family is looking for an adrenaline hit and a bit of excitement and adventure, it’s hard to go past Penny Royal Adventures. Cliff walks, zip lines, cliff jump, rope suspended bridges, indoor & outdoor rock-climbing walls, gold & gemstone mines and many more activities are available for the entire family.

Full of many different adventures, it’s easy to spend the whole day here and not get bored. Penny Royal Adventures also features a wine bar, cellar door, dining & cafes and an ice creamery, meaning there’s something here for the whole family to enjoy during the Launceston school holidays, young and old.

Ben Lomond National Park

Wallabies in the snow at Ben Lomond. Image via Tim Whybrow
Wallabies in the snow at Ben Lomond. Image via Tim Whybrow

While many snow sports enthusiasts enjoy Ben Lomond National Park in the winter, once the snow melts there’s still plenty to see and do here! A drive up Jacob’s Ladder zig-zag hairpin turns makes for one memorable drive.

A short 45 minutes drive from Launceston, you won’t be disappointed with the magnificent views and walks at Ben Lomond National Park. Spend a day exploring this huge national park which is sure to be enjoyed by all.

Where to stay in Launceston

Built in 1847 Quality Hotel Colonial Launceston is a truly unique hotel, offering the convenience of modern facilities coupled with the class and character of old charm.

The hotel’s main reception/dining/restaurant building was a former boy’s boarding school, so be on the lookout for names and years that have been carved into the window and door frames by the former school children. This hotel is the perfect base for exploring the city of Launceston.

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