Tasmania (Northern Region)
Oatlands
It’s 88km south from Ross to OATLANDS, which has Australia’s greatest concentration of colonial Georgian buildings: 140 in two square kilometres, most built by convicts. Many are now occupied by antique and bric-a-brac shops, B&Bs and guesthouses. The most striking building is the Callington Mill and its outbuildings; the partly restored windmill was built in 1837 and remained in operation until 1892. 
From the top there are fine views of the town and the surrounding countryside; unfortunately the mill is presently closed to the public but there are plans to open it again soon. Probably the best way to see the town is to go on one of Peter Fielding’s guided heritage walks (tel 03/6254 1135); he has keys to several other buildings, including the Old Gaol and courthouse; there’s a spooky evening ghost tour which commences outside the mill (9pm during daylight savings, 8pm rest of year; $8).

For food, Oatlands Roadhouse, on High Street as you come into the town on the Midland Highway (daily 7.30am–9pm), sells the usual fast food plus tasty Lebanese dishes. Blossom’s Tea Rooms, 116 High St (tel 03/6254 1516), serves light lunches; dinner here is available by arrangement. Good places to stay is the Oatlands Lodge, a colonial-style B&B in the centre of town at 92 High St.