Exeter

An educated bushranger, fine wines and a long tradition of scallop pies are the calling cards of little Exeter.

Set near the banks of kanamaluka / River Tamar, Exeter was the haunt of the infamous Matthew Brady, aka Gentleman Brady, a sophisticated (and handsome) bushranger known for his impeccable manners when robbing his victims in the 1820s. 

To follow in his footsteps, visit Brady’s Lookout, 5km south of the town on the West Tamar Highway, where the reward is scenic views of the region’s bountiful orchards, vineyards and pasture.

Exeter is also the centre of the Tamar Valley Wine Trail, which meanders 170km through the Tamar Valley. If time’s not on your side, drop in to the Tamar Valley Wine Centre, which stocks wines from more than 30 Tamar Valley vineyards and beyond – from the biggest names to the tiniest labours of love. It’s a wine journey from pinot noir to sparkling, with gourmet pizza and platters of local produce also available.  

While in town, take a look at the state’s oldest Methodist Church, built in 1861.

Where

Exeter is a 20min drive (24km) north-west of Launceston.

Insider tips

• Go wine touring and explore the vineyards along the Tamar Valley. Cellar doors close to town include Stoney Rise Wine Company, Swinging Gate Vineyard and Winter Brook Vineyard.
• Mix your drinks, with a visit to Brady’s Lookout Cider and Turner Stillhouse.
• Visit Exeter Bakery to taste-test its scallop pies, on the menu for more than 100 years.