Transport to Burnie
Credit: Stu Gibson
Burnie
Overlooking Emu Bay on the northwest coast of Tasmania, Burnie is a historically important industrial centre that’s rapidly emerging as a creative hub. It takes its name from the former director of the Van Diemen’s Land Company, William Burnie, and flourished following the discovery of tin at Mount Bischoff in the 1870s.
You can delve into the local history at the Burnie Regional Museum, which features a reconstruction of how the town looked in the 19th century. A leisurely stroll through the surrounding streets will take you past several fine examples of Federation and Art Deco architecture, as well as the city’s oldest building, the Burnie Inn.
Burnie’s creative scene continues to grow, with artists and makers establishing galleries, studios and workshops throughout the city. If you want to get hands-on or explore local exhibitions, head to the Burnie Arts Centre, which hosts performances, exhibitions, workshops and community events throughout the year. Burnie is also home to a flourishing food culture, with artisan cafés and restaurants showcasing local produce and seasonal flavours.
Green thumbs shouldn’t miss a visit to the 11-hectare Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, which is particularly striking between late August and January, while whisky buffs can sample some of Tasmania’s best (along with award-winning cheeses) at the Hellyers Road Distillery. No visit to Burnie is complete without watching its cutest residents waddling to shore at the Little Penguin Observation Centre.
Public transport in and around Burnie
Burnie is well connected with buses both to and from major towns such as Devonport and Queenstown.
Locations of bus stops in Burnie.
A fast express service that runs from Devonport to Burnie.
Buses to towns and villages on the west coast including Queenstown and Strahan.
Transfers by eGuide
Burnie transfers are operated by eGuide on demand from Devonport, Cradle Mountain, Sheffield, Launceston, Strahan and Queenstown.
Little Penguin Observation Centre
The colony is located along the foreshore in Burnie, a very short distance from the city centre.
You can walk to the Penguin Observation Centre along a boardwalk from your hotel, or park in the area behind the Makers' Workshop.
The viewing area is level with wheelchair access and is child friendly.
Credit S. Group
Burnie Makers’ Workshop
Burnie Makers’ Workshop is a superb cultural hub celebrating Tasmania’s makers, innovators and artists.
Opened in 2009, this award-winning contemporary building is a “must see” when visiting Burnie. Makers’ Workshop offers a range of visitor experiences, including interactive paper-making tours, cheese tasting, encounters with artists, historic displays, an art gallery, a gift shop, and a licensed café specialising in Tasmanian produce and an accredited visitor information centre.
Credit S. Group
Hellyers Road Distillery
Credit S. Group