Perth Bell Tower Entry Ticket and Bell Chiming Experience

If you’re visiting Perth and looking for a memorable, hands-on activity that combines history, stunning views, and a bit of fun, the Perth Bell Tower offers just that. This attraction isn’t just about peering at bells — it’s about actually ringing them, learning their story, and taking in sweeping views of the Swan River and Perth’s skyline.

Two features we especially love are the interactive bell chiming experience—where you can try your hand at ringing the bells—and the spectacular 360-degree views from the observation deck. These make the visit both engaging and visually rewarding. On the flip side, a consideration is that the bell chiming sessions are limited to set times and groups of up to 25 participants, which might require some planning.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive activities, appreciate history with a hands-on twist, and want a compact but meaningful glimpse into Perth’s cultural scene. Families, history buffs, and anyone curious about bells or panoramic cityscapes will find this tour especially appealing.

Key Points

• Unique hands-on experience: You get to ring bells yourself, something rare at other attractions.
• Stunning panoramic views: The observation deck provides a 360-degree perspective of Perth and the Swan River.
• Rich collection of historic bells: Antique and iconic bells are displayed, offering insight into their origins.
• Informative guides: Knowledgeable staff and guides make the history come alive.
• Great value for money: At $25, this experience packs in historical insight, fun, and views.
• Limited availability: Bell chiming is scheduled at set times, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Perth Bell Tower Experience

What is the Perth Bell Tower?

The Perth Bell Tower is an iconic structure located in Barrack Square, offering more than just a pretty façade. It’s the only place worldwide where visitors can see bell ringing in action and participate in a 30-minute interactive chime session. The Tower is home to a collection of historic bells, some dating back to the 14th century, alongside modern Australian bells, making it a fascinating spot for those interested in the craft and history of bell ringing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your visit begins at the meeting point in Barrack Square, where friendly staff greet you and hand out tickets. The guided interactive bell chiming experience is scheduled at specific times from Wednesday through Sunday, limited to 25 participants. During this session, an experienced bell ringer guides you through the process — pulling ropes, learning how different bells produce different tones, and even trying to play a tune.

While the actual bell ringing is the highlight, you’ll also explore the Tower’s galleries and exhibits. These display a collection of antique bells, clocks, and bell-related artifacts from around the globe. Notably, you’ll see the twelve bells gifted from St. Martin in the Fields on the Australian bicentenary and other historic bells from London and Westminster.

The View and the Atmosphere

After the chime experience, you’re free to ascend to the observation deck. The views are truly striking — you get a 360-degree panorama of Perth city, the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay, and beyond. The floor-to-ceiling glass and open-air sections provide a safe yet immersive experience. Reviewers rave about the quality of the views: “the upper floors of the museum could have benefitted from having a guide to answer questions about exhibits, but the view from level 6 is “pretty amazing,” and the observation deck is described as “picture perfect.”

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guided Experience

Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentions, “Angela was a great guide and shared her knowledge with us,” highlighting that staff often go above and beyond to make sure visitors leave with a good understanding of the bells’ history and significance. During the bell ringing, you’ll be in capable hands, whether you’re pulling ropes yourself or listening to the Carillion bells play a tune.

The Cost and Its Value

At $25 per person for a 30-minute experience, the value is quite high. You’re not just paying for a sightseeing ticket but for a hands-on activity, access to historic artifacts, and panoramic views. Multiple reviews describe it as very good value for money, especially given the informative guides and the unique chance to ring the bells. Several guests note that even if you only have a short time, this is a worthwhile, memorable activity.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The Bell Tower is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs. The tours are offered Wednesday to Sunday, with the bell chiming at set times, so planning ahead is recommended. The views from the observation deck are accessible after the session, and there’s an opportunity to record a video postcard to share your experience.

What Do Visitors Say?

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 161 reviews. Visitors frequently comment on the friendly staff, the interesting history, and the fun of ringing the bells yourself. One person summed it up: “This was the greatest little tour we’ve been on in a long time,” emphasizing the informal, engaging nature of the experience.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews mention limited tour times and group size restrictions, which could mean you need to plan your visit around the schedule. Also, the views from the top, while spectacular, might be compromised if the weather isn’t clear. Plus, the glass floors and open stairs might be challenging for those with a fear of heights or glass structures, so it’s worth considering if that applies to you or your travel companions.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is particularly well-suited for families, history enthusiasts, and those who enjoy interactive activities. It offers a rare chance to try bell ringing yourself and learn about bells’ history in a relaxed setting. It’s also a great option for visitors seeking a compact but engaging cultural activity that combines learning, fun, and sweeping city views in one place.

Final Thoughts

The Perth Bell Tower with the bell chiming experience offers a wonderful blend of history, hands-on fun, and panoramic scenery. It’s a perfect choice if you want a unique activity that doesn’t take all day but still provides plenty of memorable moments. The friendly guides, interesting exhibits, and stunning views make it a value-packed option for an authentic Perth experience.

While it requires some planning around scheduled times, the opportunity to ring historic bells and capture breathtaking views makes it well worth the effort. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or traveling with children, this experience will likely leave you with a smile and a new appreciation for the art of bell ringing.

FAQ

How long does the entire experience last?
The main bell chiming experience lasts about 30 minutes, with additional time to explore the exhibits and enjoy the views.

Is the bell chiming experience available every day?
No, it runs at set times from Wednesday to Sunday, so check ahead and book in advance.

What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket covers entry to the Bell Tower, the 30-minute guided bell chiming experience, access to the observation deck, and a bell chiming certificate.

Can I record my experience?
Yes, you can record a free video postcard during your visit, which will be uploaded to a YouTube channel.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy ringing the bells and exploring the exhibits, but be mindful of the open glass floors if they have a height phobia.

Are there guided tours in languages other than English?
Guided tours are available in English and Spanish.

What is the cost of the experience?
It costs $25 per person.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Yes, the tower is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for climbing stairs or standing during the experience are recommended.

What is the best time to visit?
Plan your visit around the scheduled bell chiming times, ideally when the weather is clear for the best views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby