What walking tours does Launceston By Foot offer?

Launceston By Foot offers locally guided walking experiences through central Launceston, Tasmania. Our regular experiences include the Heart of Launceston, which explores the city's history, architecture, stories and contemporary culture, and the Dark Side of Launceston, which delves into crime, convicts, public hangings, gaols, bushrangers and some of the darker chapters of the city's past.

We also create private tours and special experiences throughout the year in collaboration with festivals, events and local organisations.

Where do Launceston By Foot tours take place?

Our walking tours explore central Launceston in northern Tasmania. Each experience follows a different route through the city, with stops selected to help tell the stories of the people, buildings and events that have shaped Launceston.

Your booking confirmation will include the meeting point and information you need before your tour.

Are your walking tours guided?

Yes. Every Launceston By Foot experience is led by a local guide who brings the city's stories to life through engaging storytelling, historical research and local knowledge.

We keep our regular tours small so there is plenty of opportunity to ask questions and chat with your guide along the way.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. We recommend booking in advance to secure your place. You can use our Book Now calendar to see upcoming tours and current availability.

Booking directly also means you'll receive all the information you need before your experience, followed by our local recommendations after your tour.

Can I book within two hours of a tour starting?

Potentially! Online bookings close two hours before departure, but we may still be able to accommodate you. Call us on 0458 527 480 to check.

If we can't answer immediately, leave your name and phone number and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than seven days before your tour are eligible for a full refund.

Do you run in wet weather?

Yes. Launceston By Foot tours operate in most weather conditions, including rain. There are places along our routes where we can find some shelter, but we recommend checking the forecast and bringing a rain jacket or umbrella when needed.

If severe weather means we need to change or cancel a tour, we'll contact booked guests directly.

Is this a historic tour?

History is at the heart of our walking tours, but we don't deliver it like a history lecture. Our experiences use researched storytelling to connect the people and events of Launceston's past with the streets, buildings and places around you.

Depending on the tour, you'll also discover architecture, public art, food, local businesses and contemporary Launceston. Our aim is to help you understand not just what happened here, but how those stories have shaped the city you see today.

Are Launceston By Foot tours suitable for locals?

Absolutely. Many Launceston locals join our tours and are surprised by how much they discover about their own city.

Our stories often uncover details hidden in familiar streets and buildings, making the tours just as much about rediscovering Launceston as experiencing it for the first time. Locals and visitors on the same tour often make for some of our favourite conversations.

What language are tours offered in?

Our guided tours are currently delivered in English.

Do I need to print my ticket?

No. There's no need to print your booking confirmation. You can show the digital version on your phone if required.

Can I take photographs?

Absolutely. You're welcome to take photos throughout the experience unless your guide advises otherwise at a particular location. We'd love to see your experience if you share your photos online.

What is the Heart of Launceston walking tour?

The Heart of Launceston is our introduction to the city, combining history, architecture, public art, local stories and recommendations as you explore central Launceston with a local guide.

It's a great experience for first-time visitors who want to understand the city early in their stay, as well as locals interested in discovering stories hidden within familiar streets.

When does the Heart of Launceston tour run?

Monday and Friday: 4:30pm
Saturday: 10:00am

Additional dates and private departures may be available. Check our live booking calendar for current availability.

How long is the Heart of Launceston tour?

The Heart of Launceston runs for approximately 1.5 hours and covers around 1.5 kilometres through central Launceston. We walk at a relaxed pace with regular stops for storytelling along the way.

Is the tour wheelchair, pram and mobility scooter friendly?

Yes. The Heart of Launceston follows public footpaths and pedestrian crossings and is suitable for wheelchairs, prams and mobility scooters.

If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact us before booking so we can discuss the route and how we can best support your experience.

Do you offer companion card discounts?

Yes. Companion Card holders can select the Companion Card option when booking, with complimentary admission provided for the companion.

Can I bring my dog on the tour?

Yes! Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join us on tour. We just ask that they remain on a lead while we make our way through the city, and that you’re mindful of other guests in the group.

Accredited assistance animals are always welcome.

Is food or drink included?

Food and drinks aren't included on the Heart of Launceston tour, but you'll discover plenty of places to return to afterwards. Your guide will share local recommendations throughout the experience, and we'll send you further suggestions after your tour.

What is the Dark Side of Launceston walking tour?

Dark Side of Launceston explores the darker chapters of the city's history through stories of convicts, murder, public hangings, historic gaols, bushrangers and colonial Tasmania.

Led by a local storyteller through Launceston's historic streets, the experience also explores difficult elements of Tasmania's colonial history, including the Black War.

Is Dark Side of Launceston a ghost tour?

No. Dark Side of Launceston is a historical storytelling experience rather than a traditional ghost tour.

The experience is grounded in researched events and real people from Launceston’s past. Expect convicts, crime and punishment, prison riots, executions, bushrangers and some genuinely dark history, rather than actors jumping out from behind buildings.

Is the Dark Side of Launceston scary?

It's atmospheric rather than designed to frighten you. There are dark stories involving crime, death, punishment and colonial history, but there are no jump scares or horror actors.

Some subject matter is confronting, which is why the tour has a minimum age of 15.

How old do you need to be to join Dark Side of Launceston?

Guests must be 15 years or older due to the nature and subject matter of some of the stories.

How long is Dark Side of Launceston?

Dark Side of Launceston runs for approximately two hours, with a relaxed walking pace and regular stops for storytelling.

Does Dark Side of Launceston run before sunset?

Yes. During daylight saving and the warmer months, part or all of the Dark Side of Launceston tour may take place before sunset. The experience has a different atmosphere in daylight, but the stories are just as dark.

If you're specifically looking for a tour after dark, check the sunset time for your chosen date before booking or consider booking it as a private tour for your preferred time.

Is Dark Side of Launceston accessible?

Dark Side of Launceston follows an accessible route through central Launceston and is suitable for wheelchairs and mobility aids. We walk at a relaxed pace and stop regularly throughout the experience. If you have specific accessibility requirements, contact us before your tour and we'll be happy to discuss the route.

What should I wear for the Dark Side Tour?

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking. Depending on the weather, a jacket or umbrella might come in handy as we explore the city’s haunting tales!

Does Launceston By Foot offer private tours?

Yes. We offer private walking tours in Launceston for couples, families, friendship groups, corporate groups, schools, tour groups and special occasions.

Private experiences can be based on one of our existing tours or developed around the interests, timing and requirements of your group.

How many people can join a private tour?

We can accommodate everything from small private bookings to larger groups. Larger groups may require additional guides so everyone can comfortably hear the stories, move through the city and interact with their guide.

How much does a private walking tour in Launceston cost?

Private tour pricing depends on the experience, group size, duration and level of customisation required. Contact us with your preferred date, approximate number of guests and the type of experience you're interested in and we'll provide a quote.

Can private tours be customised?

Yes. We can tailor private experiences around your group's interests, available time and requirements. Depending on the booking, this could include particular themes, locations or stories, or adapting the timing and format of one of our existing walking tours.

How long is a private tour?

The duration depends on the experience and your group's requirements. Let us know how much time you have available and we'll recommend an appropriate option.

Can you run tours for corporate and conference groups?

Yes. Launceston By Foot can provide private walking experiences for corporate groups, conferences, team activities and functions. We can work with organisers around group size, available time and event schedules to create an experience that fits within a broader itinerary.

What can I expect to see on the Art Walk?

Get ready for a feast for the eyes! Our Art Walk will take you through stunning galleries, vibrant street art, and intriguing installations, showcasing the rich creativity of Launceston’s artistic scene.

Is the Art Walk suitable for all ages?

Absolutely! Our Art Walk is designed to be enjoyable for art lovers of all ages. We encourage families and friends to join in the fun!

Do I need to have an art background to join the tour?

Not at all! Whether you’re an art aficionado or just curious, our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights that everyone can appreciate.

How long does the Art Walk last?

The Art Walk typically lasts around 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights and learn about the art along the way.

Are there places to sit during the tour?

Yes! There are various stops throughout the tour where you can take a moment to sit and absorb the art and atmosphere. We want you to feel comfortable while exploring!