Attraction
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
A 400-hectare park of bushland, lawns and a botanic garden of Western Australian plants on the city's western edge, free to enter every day.
The Bell Tower
A riverside tower at Barrack Square housing the historic Swan Bells from London, where visitors can try chiming a bell and enjoy river views.
At a glance
- Type
- Bell tower and viewpoint
- Area
- Elizabeth Quay, Perth, Australia
- Opening
- Open daily · 10:00–16:00
- Official site
- thebelltower.com.au
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Lift to every level
- Free hearing protection
- Bell chiming
Why we recommend it
The Bell Tower stands in Barrack Square at the edge of Elizabeth Quay, looking out over the Swan River. Built to mark the new millennium, the 82.5-metre tower holds 18 bells, twelve of which are historic bells from the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields in London. The other six were cast at London's Whitechapel Bell Foundry, five of them in 1988 and one in 1998. The tower is run by the not-for-profit Swan Bells Foundation, which recorded close to 39,000 visitors in the year to June 2024, and alongside the twelve royal Swan Bells it now also displays the ANZAC Bell.
The main attraction for most visitors is the chance to have a go at chiming a bell yourself, something the venue says you can do here without being a trained bell ringer. The building has six levels, which together give 360-degree views across the river and the city skyline, so it is a good way to get your bearings early in a trip, and staff assistance is available throughout the building if you need it.
The tower suits families, with free hearing protection provided for all ages, from newborns to adults, and family activities and events are run through the year. It is also an easy, short stop for couples and solo travellers exploring the waterfront. Tickets are required, and they can be booked online in advance through the venue's website.
Accessibility is good. There is level access with flat, even floors, a lift to each level with handrails and braille, a fully accessible toilet and seating throughout. National Companion Cards are accepted, assistance animals have shaded outdoor areas with water, and a simplified sensory brochure can be downloaded before your visit.
The Bell Tower opens daily from 10am to 4pm, although public holiday hours may vary. There are a few paid parking bays on Riverside Drive and in Barrack Square, with larger car parks nearby at Terrace Road, the Concert Hall, the Convention Centre and Council House. The tower is in the heart of the Elizabeth Quay waterfront, so it combines naturally with a walk along the river, a meal at the quay or a ferry trip.
The Bell Tower FAQs
What are the opening hours?
The Bell Tower is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Public holiday hours may vary.
Can I ring the bells?
Yes. Visitors can have a go at chiming a bell without being a trained bell ringer.
Where are the bells from?
Twelve of the bells are historic bells from St Martin-in-the-Fields church in London.
Do I need a ticket?
Yes. Tickets are required and can be booked online.
Is the Bell Tower wheelchair accessible?
Yes. There is level access, a lift to every level with handrails and braille, and a fully accessible toilet.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. Free hearing protection is provided for all ages and family activities run during the year.
Where can I park?
There are limited paid bays on Riverside Drive and in Barrack Square, plus car parks at Terrace Road, the Concert Hall, the Convention Centre and Council House.
Are there views from the tower?
Yes. Its six levels give 360-degree views of the river and the city.