Administrative centre for northern Tasmania there has always been a rivalry between Hobart and Launceston for recognition. Launceston however, is equally charming with well preserved and restored Georgian buildings and an equally interesting history. Originally called Pattersonia after it's founder but changed in 1824 to honour Governor King who was born in Launceston, Cornmall, England close to the Tamar River which also gave it's name to the head of the river which flows through the city. The other two rivers that meet here are the North and South Esk. All three combine here and flow the remaining 64klms to the Bass Strait.
Launceston is known as The Garden City because there is always something green to see when walking through the city. The lavendar produced here is of world class and most of the year you will find flowers or trees in bloom. This beautifully kept and interesting city offers the visitor elegance and charm. Launceston is 198 klms from Hobart. The journey between the two cities can be easily accomplished in half a day as a major highway runs through the centre of Tasmania between the two.
The town expanded rapidly in the 1870's owing to the mining boom in north east Tasmania and became a city in 1888. The railway joining the two cities was opened in 1876. The greatest aid to development occured in 1895 when Launceston became the first city in the southern hemisphere to have electricity generated by water power.