The Bell Tower is one of Perth’s most eye-catching buildings, and heading inside is a great way to play tourist in your own city with the kids. Sitting at Barrack Square on Riverside Drive, right by Elizabeth Quay, it’s an easy add-on to a day in the city or a wander along the river.
Inside, families can explore several levels of displays and experiences. The lower floors are home to fascinating exhibitions about bells from around the world and the story of the famous St Martin-in-the-Fields bells from London, which now ring out over the Swan River. Older kids and adults who enjoy a bit of history will appreciate learning how these bells marked some of the world’s biggest moments over the past 600 years.
One of the highlights for many families is the chance to try bell chiming. The Bell Tower is the only place in Australia where you can watch traditional change ringing in action, and selected experiences let visitors step into the ringing chamber and take hold of the ropes themselves. Children (with a bit of help) right through to grandparents can have a go, and it’s a real thrill to hear “your” bell ring out and see it moving on the screen from the belfry above.
Higher up the tower, you can visit the belfry level and see the impressive St Martin-in-the-Fields bells and the massive ANZAC Bell up close through viewing windows. The ANZAC Bell Tour goes into more depth about its history and significance, and includes a certificate and souvenir coin, which is a nice keepsake for kids. If you can time your visit to coincide with ringing, it’s very special to watch and hear the bells in full voice.
A visit isn’t complete without heading all the way up to Level 6 and the open-air observation deck. From here, you’re treated to sweeping 360-degree views over the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park and the city skyline. There’s a coin-operated telescope for an even closer look. Older children will love spotting landmarks, while younger ones can simply enjoy being up high and out in the fresh air.
The Bell Tower is well set up for families. There is a lift to all levels, so prams can be taken up with ease, and toilets are available inside the building. On the ground floor you’ll find a small gift shop with bell- and clock-themed souvenirs, and little visitors often enjoy picking out a trinket to remember their visit. Couples or parents looking for something a bit special can also purchase a personalised engraved Love Lock to fix to the structure, making it a fun date element before or after a family outing.
Allow around 45 minutes to an hour to explore, depending on whether you add a bell-chiming or ANZAC Bell experience. The central location means it’s easy to combine your visit with a walk along Elizabeth Quay, a ferry ride, Playground time, or lunch at one of the nearby cafés and restaurants. With its mix of hands-on fun, fascinating stories and beautiful views, The Bell Tower makes a memorable city outing for both locals and visitors.
The Bell Tower, Perth
Address: Barrack Square, Riverside Drive, Perth, WA 6000
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 4pm (last entry 3.45pm). Closed Mondays.
Website: The Bell Tower
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, (first as “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life”) Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA for her blog ‘Simply PERTHfect’. You’ll find her checking out the newest foodie spots (brunching, tapas or something a little fancy), as well as fun family activities with the kiddos in tow, so Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
