Railton

Railton is a quirky little town in northern Tasmania that wears its heart on its sleeve—or rather, its topiary on its streets. Known as the Town of Topiary, this former railway settlement has transformed itself into an open-air gallery of sculpted hedges, with whimsical animals and shapes popping up around every corner. It’s a delightful detour for anyone driving between Devonport and Launceston, offering a slice of rural creativity and a chance to stretch your legs among living green art.

Highlights & What to See

• Topiary Trail – Follow the walking trail that weaves through town, spotting over 80 topiary creations, from elephants and dinosaurs to a giant thylacine. The craftsmanship is impressive, and the town’s pride in its art is infectious.
• Railton Hotel – A classic Aussie pub with a friendly vibe, cold local beers, and hearty meals. It’s the perfect spot to refuel after your topiary wanderings.
• Don River – The river runs through town and offers a peaceful spot for a picnic or a short riverside stroll. Keep an eye out for platypuses at dawn or dusk.
• Railton Heritage Walk – This self-guided walk takes you past historic buildings and tells the story of the town’s railway and timber-milling past. Look for the old station master’s house and the restored railway bridge.

Suggested Time to Spend

Railton is a compact town best enjoyed as a short stopover. Allow 1–2 hours to walk the topiary trail, snap photos, and grab a coffee or a meal at the hotel. If you’re a keen photographer or topiary enthusiast, you could stretch it to half a day, but most visitors find a couple of hours perfectly satisfying. It’s an ideal break on a drive between Devonport and Launceston.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Devonport – Tasmania’s northern port city, just 20 minutes north, with the Spirit of Tasmania terminal, Mersey Bluff lighthouse, and the Tasmanian Arboretum.
• Sheffield – The town of murals, 15 minutes east, where you can wander streets lined with painted walls depicting Tasmanian history and culture.
• Latrobe – A historic village 10 minutes north, known for its antique shops, the Bells Parade riverside park, and the Australian Axeman’s Hall of Fame.
• Cataract Gorge – A stunning natural reserve near Launceston, about 45 minutes south, with walking trails, a chairlift, and swimming in the South Esk River.

Please check official sources for current details.