Kempton: A Timeless Tasmanian Village Where History Breathes Through Every Street

Tucked gently into Tasmania’s Southern Midlands, just 49 kilometres north of Hobart, Kempton is one of those rare places where the past feels close enough to touch. Settled in the 1820s and originally known as Green Ponds, this beautifully preserved village invites travellers to slow down, wander, and discover a streetscape that has barely changed since the 19th century. With its heritage inns, charming church, and historic shopfronts, Kempton offers an evocative glimpse into colonial life—quiet, authentic, and irresistibly atmospheric.

A Village Steeped in Story

Kempton’s origins trace back to Anthony Fenn Kemp, the influential and somewhat notorious figure after whom the town was eventually named. The first land grant in the district was awarded to Kemp, and the entrance to his former property, Mount Vernon, still stands just south of the township. His colourful legacy is explored in Nicholas Shakespeare’s acclaimed novel In Tasmania, which adds a literary layer to the region’s already rich history.

The village’s architectural centrepiece is Dysart House, an elegant Georgian mansion at the southern end of town. Now privately owned, its stately façade and sweeping proportions make it one of the most handsome heritage buildings in Tasmania. Even from the roadside, it’s a sight that captures the imagination.

Although the modern highway now bypasses Kempton, this only enhances its peaceful charm. Travellers who take the short detour are rewarded with a town that feels wonderfully untouched—an authentic slice of Tasmania’s colonial past.

Things to Do in Kempton

• Stroll the Historic Main Street
  Wander past beautifully preserved 19th‑century buildings, each with its own story. The inn, church, and former shops create a streetscape that feels like stepping into a living museum.
• Admire Dysart House
  While not open to the public, the mansion’s exterior is a highlight for architecture lovers and photographers.
• Explore Local Heritage Trails
  Short walks around the village reveal old cottages, stone fences, and rural vistas that speak to Tasmania’s early pastoral era.
• Visit Nearby Wineries and Farm Gates
  The Southern Midlands region is dotted with boutique producers offering cool‑climate wines, artisanal goods, and warm country hospitality.
• Discover the Story of Anthony Fenn Kemp
  For history buffs, reading In Tasmania before or after your visit adds depth to the landscape and the characters who shaped it.

How to Get There

Kempton is an easy and scenic 40–45 minute drive north of Hobart along the Midland Highway. Although the highway bypasses the village, clear signage makes it simple to exit and explore. Travellers coming from Launceston will reach Kempton in around 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a pleasant stop on a north–south journey.

Parking is plentiful, and the town is compact enough to explore entirely on foot.

Best Time to Visit

Kempton is beautiful year‑round, but each season brings its own charm:

• Autumn: Golden light and crisp air make it ideal for photography and heritage walks.
• Winter: Misty mornings and cosy countryside ambience create a moody, romantic atmosphere.
• Spring: Wildflowers and fresh green paddocks brighten the landscape.
• Summer: Warm days are perfect for leisurely drives and exploring the wider Midlands region.

Why Kempton Belongs on Your Tasmania Itinerary

Kempton isn’t a place you rush through—it’s a place you savour. Its quiet streets, historic buildings, and pastoral surroundings offer a rare sense of stillness and authenticity. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of heritage architecture, or simply a traveller seeking a peaceful detour, Kempton rewards curiosity with charm, character, and a deep connection to Tasmania’s early story.