Taroona Shot Tower
Climb the world's tallest cylindrical sandstone tower for breathtaking views and a journey into Tasmania's industrial past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Taroona Shot Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb the world's tallest cylindrical sandstone tower for breathtaking views and a journey into Tasmania's industrial past.
"The view from up there is absolutely stunning! It's one of those moments where you just take a deep breath and soak it all in."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing over 300 steps, so comfortable footwear is a must for the tower ascent.
🎟️ Tickets for the Top
A fee applies for museum entry and tower access. Limited spots mean booking ahead is wise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tower Climb
Inside the Shot Tower
Ascend over 300 steps for breathtaking 360° views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.
Historic Sandstone Structure
Taroona Shot Tower Historic Site
Marvel at the world's tallest cylindrical sandstone tower, a testament to 19th-century industrial ingenuity.
Scenic Gardens & Tearoom
Base of the Shot Tower
Enjoy beautiful gardens and a charming tearoom offering Devonshire tea and baked goods.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb for the Views
Bookings & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing over 300 steps, so comfortable footwear is a must for the tower ascent.
🎟️ Tickets for the Top
A fee applies for museum entry and tower access. Limited spots mean booking ahead is wise.
☕ Relax at the Tearoom
Enjoy a delightful Devonshire tea or fresh muffins after your climb in the charming tearoom.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The beautiful gardens surrounding the tower offer a lovely spot for a stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing over 300 steps, so comfortable footwear is a must for the tower ascent.
🎟️ Tickets for the Top
A fee applies for museum entry and tower access. Limited spots mean booking ahead is wise.
☕ Relax at the Tearoom
Enjoy a delightful Devonshire tea or fresh muffins after your climb in the charming tearoom.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The beautiful gardens surrounding the tower offer a lovely spot for a stroll.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the top are spectacular – don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Taroona Shot Tower for its unique history and the incredible panoramic views from the top. The climb is often described as a rewarding challenge, and the adjacent tearoom and gardens add to the overall pleasant experience. Some note that fees apply for the tower climb and museum, and capacity is limited.
"We recently visited the Shot Tower, and I have to say, it was quite an interesting experience! I loved learning about the history and the process involved in its construction. The story behind the man who brought it all together really added depth to the visit.
Climbing to the top was definitely a highlight for me. The view from up there is absolutely stunning! It's one of those moments where you just take a deep breath and soak it all in. If you’re in the area, I definitely recommend taking the time to visit—it's worth it!"
KEHKAHRTZ
"Well worth the walk up the stairs.. The view is fantastic!!
Limit 15 people on the staircase at a time. Beautiful gardens surrounding shot tower.
Tearoom at base of tower. Little gift shop as you walk through to the stairs."
Lavinia “Vinnie”
"Magnificent sand stone tower. Got toilet, parking spaces, souvenier shop, museum, and you can take the wooden stairs to climb the top of the tower for an amazing view of the surrounding.
Just be mindful that the museum and to get to the top of the tower fees apply. $5 for museum only, and $10 for both for an adult. And there's limit of only 15 peoples at a single time on the tower."
Glenn Owen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Taroona Shot Tower is located in Taroona, Tasmania. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach it.
Yes, there are parking spaces available at the base of the tower, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The area around the Shot Tower is scenic, and cycling or walking might be enjoyable if you're staying nearby. The Alum Cliffs track nearby offers a great walking experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are fees for museum entry and to climb the tower. Adults typically pay around $10 for both, with a separate fee for museum-only access. Check their official site for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the tower climb, as there's a limit of 15 people allowed on the stairs at one time. This helps ensure you get a spot.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on operating times.
While there's no strict age limit, the climb involves over 300 steps, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Those with a fear of heights might find it challenging.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the history of the tower in the museum, climb to the top for incredible views, enjoy the surrounding gardens, and visit the onsite tearoom.
From the top, you'll get stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, the Derwent River, and the Hobart area. It's a truly epic vista.
Yes, toilet facilities are available at the Shot Tower site, which is convenient for visitors.
The museum and tearoom are generally accessible. However, climbing the tower involves a significant number of stairs and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a charming tearoom located at the base of the tower that serves Devonshire tea, fresh muffins, and other treats.
While there isn't specific picnic infrastructure mentioned, the beautiful gardens might offer a pleasant spot for a picnic if you bring your own.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top of the tower are incredible for photography. The historic sandstone structure itself also makes for striking shots, as do the surrounding gardens.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good to be mindful of other visitors, especially during the climb up the narrow stairs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the step count (over 300!) and the limited space on the stairs. It might be best suited for families with children who are comfortable with heights and can manage the climb. The gardens and tearoom offer a more relaxed experience for younger children or those who prefer not to climb.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
The tower's historical significance combined with the physical challenge and the stunning views makes it a rewarding experience for active travelers looking for more than just a passive sightseeing stop.
☕ Couples & Relaxed Visitors
+1It's a destination that offers both a bit of adventure and a chance to unwind, making it suitable for a variety of moods and preferences. The historical aspect adds an interesting talking point to the visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Construction of the Taroona Shot Tower
Locals claim it was the tallest building in Australia between 1870 and 1875, highlighting its impressive scale for the era. The man behind its creation brought significant industrial innovation to Tasmania. Understanding this history adds a fascinating layer to the visitor experience, making the climb even more meaningful.
Today, the tower serves as a historical site, offering visitors a glimpse into Tasmania's industrial past. The adjacent museum provides further context and details about the tower's construction and operation.
Experiencing the Climb and Views
Once at the top, the 360-degree panorama is truly breathtaking. You'll get stunning vistas of the Derwent River, the surrounding coastline, and the city of Hobart in the distance. It's a perfect spot for photography and for simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of Tasmania.
It's important to note that access to the tower climb is limited to small groups (around 15 people at a time) to ensure safety and manage the flow of visitors. This controlled access can mean a short wait, but it enhances the overall experience by preventing overcrowding on the stairs and at the summit.
Beyond the Tower: Gardens and Tearoom
A highlight for many visitors is the charming tearoom located at the base of the tower. This cozy spot is perfect for relaxing after the climb or for enjoying a delightful break. They are known for serving traditional Devonshire tea with scones, jam, and cream, as well as freshly baked muffins and other treats.
This combination of historical exploration, physical activity, and a relaxing cafe experience makes the Taroona Shot Tower a well-rounded destination for a day out. It appeals to history buffs, adventure seekers, and those simply looking for a scenic spot with good food.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit