Perth Bell Tower: Chiming Experience & River Views Tour

Summary

Ring ancient bells over the Swan River with a local guide in Perth

You’ll step inside Perth’s Bell Tower with a local guide and actually try your hand at ringing historic royal bells — yes, real ones from London! Explore five levels packed with stories and views over Swan River, watch (and hear) the ANZAC Bell at noon, and maybe even play a tune yourself on the Carillon. It’s more moving than you’d expect.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I thought bell ringing was just pulling a rope. Turns out, it’s a whole thing. The first time our guide handed me the rope inside the Bell Tower in Perth, my palms actually got sweaty (didn’t expect that). You feel this odd mix of nerves and excitement because these aren’t just any bells — they’re 300 years old, straight from St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London. The sound is heavier than you’d think; it sort of vibrates right through your chest. Li, our guide, grinned when I flinched at the first clang. “You get used to it,” she said, but I’m not sure I ever would.

The tour isn’t rushed — we wandered through five levels, pausing to look at old photos and little bits of bell history tucked into corners. There’s something about the way sunlight hits the copper and glass walls here; it makes everything feel both modern and ancient at once. At noon, we watched the massive ANZAC Bell ring out from the viewing platform (the echo lingers in your ears longer than you’d think). Kids were pressing their noses to the glass, trying to spot boats on the Swan River below. Honestly, I ended up doing the same thing.

There’s an observation deck up top where you can see all across Perth and out to the Darling Range — kind of hazy that day, but still beautiful in its own way. Someone played “Waltzing Matilda” on the coin-operated Carillon (badly, but it made us all laugh). If you’re looking for a day trip in Perth that’s different from beaches or cafes, this Bell Tower chiming experience is weirdly memorable. I still think about how those bells sounded under my hands — heavy and alive somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Perth Bell Tower and Views

• Enter the Bell Tower
• Join interactive bell ringing tour
• Chime the 300-year-old bells
• See the 6,500kg ANZAC Bell ring
• Enjoy Swan River views
• Play tunes on coin-operated Carillon

Top questions

Can I ring the bells myself during this tour?

Yes, you get to try ringing the historic bells as part of the guided experience.

What days is the Perth Bell Tower open for tours?

The Bell Tower is open Thursday to Sunday from 10am.

Is there an observation deck at the Bell Tower?

Yes, there’s an observation deck on level 6 with city and river views.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all public areas of the Bell Tower are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants or small children join in strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during your visit.

Do I need to book ahead for this chiming experience?

No booking details provided here; check availability before visiting.

What time does the ANZAC Bell ring?

The ANZAC Bell rings daily at 12pm from level 5 viewing platform.

What’s included

Your day includes entry into Perth’s Bell Tower with access to all five public areas; a guided tour where you’ll learn about bell history; hands-on chiming of historic royal bells; plus time to enjoy river views from multiple levels before heading back whenever you’re ready.