I've just been to the Shot Tower in Taroona — 3 months ago
This Shot Tower is hidden away in Taroona, outside of Hobart, Tasmania. It is an iron works building where they make shot (bullets) for shot guns. This place is very well researched with how to make lead shot, how the metal is mixed with arsenic and the procedure of workers etc. Well researched about the owners who first built the Shot Tower and subsequent history from the beginning. Made from sandstone (so it can be quite cold inside) and built with free labour (I had previously thought it was convicts) and it is the only round Shot Tower in the southern hemisphere. There are approx. 300 steps to the very top where there are magnificent and breath taking views of the Taroona area including the bay. The stair case has mesh on the central wooden framework so that little children can’t fall through in the centre of the Tower. However, if you are taking children I don’t suggest you take them all the way up unless you can carry them half way. There is a cafe where the old offices were with a working fireplace and the most beautiful devonshire tea I’ve ever had. It’s $5.50 to climb the Shot Tower and you get a sticker on the way out saying that you’ve been to the top. For an extra .55c you get a little brochure or for $5.50 extra you buy yourself a booklet that contains all the information of the history of the Shot Tower complete with photographs. There is a commemorative coin for only $4. For Devonshire Tea (which includes a pot of tea, approx. 4 cups of tea and three scones with three home made jams and extra whipped cream) it’s $8.50. However if they also do serve pies and quiches for $6.50 and it’s served with salad (no chips!). Everyhting homemade!! The place is run by a husband and wife team who have been at the Shot Tower from 9am to 5pm, Seven days a week for the last 16 years. They know everything about the Tower and are a great resource for local knowledge.
