Perth Bell Tower Entry Ticket and Bell Chiming Experience

The Perth Bell Tower is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, and experiencing it firsthand offers more than just a photo op. While some might only be interested in snapping pictures of the towering structure, this tour dives into the fascinating history of bells from around the world, complemented by a lively, hands-on chiming experience.

What sets this apart is the chance to see the historic bells up close, enjoy panoramic city views, and even try ringing the bells yourself. It’s a quick activity—just about 30 minutes—but packed with enough charm and insight to appeal to history buffs, families, and anyone curious about the art of bell ringing.

A possible drawback? The bell chiming sessions are limited to specific times and groups are capped at 25 participants. If you’re after a longer or more in-depth tour, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for its price point and unique offering, it’s an engaging way to add some local flavor to your Perth itinerary.

This experience is especially suited for visitors seeking a compact, meaningful taste of Perth’s history, stunning skyline views, and a chance to actively participate rather than just observe.

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Key Points

Unique Experience: The only place in the world where you can see bell ringing in action and participate yourself.
Stunning Views: 360-degree vistas of Perth and Swan River from the observation deck.
Historical Artifacts: A collection of antique and historic bells from London to Australia.
Interactive: A 30-minute guided bell chiming experience that’s both fun and educational.
Affordable: At $12, it offers excellent value, especially with the added bonus of a certificate.
Limited but Popular: The chiming sessions run Wednesday to Sunday and are capped at 25 participants, so booking in advance is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Itself: What You Can Expect

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Arrival and Entry

Starting at Barrack Square, the Perth Bell Tower is a striking structure that immediately catches your eye. The entry fee is modest at $12 per person, which covers a good chunk of what you’re getting—access to the tower, the bells, and the observation deck. Opening hours run from 10:00 AM Wednesday through Sunday, excluding major holidays like Good Friday and Christmas Day.

The Collection of Bells and Artifacts

Once inside, you’re greeted by an impressive display of historic bells and bell-related artifacts. These include rare pieces, such as the twelve bells gifted from St. Martin in the Fields to mark Australia’s bicentenary, alongside bells from London and Westminster. A highlight for many is the display of the oldest and heaviest bells in Australia, which adds a tangible sense of history to the visit.

According to visitors, the knowledgeable guides offer insightful commentary, making the experience educational without feeling pretentious. One reviewer shared how guide Angela’s in-depth knowledge truly made their visit memorable, highlighting the importance of a good guide in such settings.

The Bell Chiming Experience

The core of this tour is the 30-minute interactive bell chiming. Limited to 25 participants and scheduled at set times from Wednesday to Sunday, it’s a lively, hands-on session that lets you pull ropes and ring bells under the guidance of experienced ringers. Several reviews mention how fun and engaging this part is—one guest exclaimed, “The chance to ring the bells in the tower was great,” while another called the experience “awesome” and “a great opportunity to try something quite different.”

During the session, you’ll hear the Carillion bells play a tune, and you may even record a quick video postcard to share—something many find adds a modern touch to this historic activity. Guides are often praised for their friendliness and ability to explain the mechanics and history behind bell ringing, making it accessible even for beginners.

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Observation Deck and Views

After the ringing, you’ll ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of Perth and Swan River. The elevated vantage point provides perfect photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the city’s layout—perfect for a quick sightseeing break. Several reviews mention the “picture-perfect views” from this level, which are a definite highlight.

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Additional Elements

Beyond the bells, the Tower’s gallery features a collection of artifacts and clocks, adding more depth to the visit. Visitors appreciate the diversity of objects on display, and many say that the exhibits are well-curated and informative.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: 30 minutes, making it easy to slot into a busy day.
Price: $12 per person, which is very reasonable considering the interactive element and the views.
Timing: The bell chiming sessions are scheduled at set times, so check the schedule in advance and book early to secure your spot.
Accessibility: The tower is wheelchair accessible, and guides are helpful for those with special needs.
Group Size: Limited to 25 people for the chiming experience, ensuring a more personal and engaging session.
Language: Guides offer commentary in both English and Spanish, broadening accessibility.

What We Loved (Based on Reviews)

Knowledgeable Guides: Several reviews praise guides like Howard and Jess for their friendly, informative, and engaging commentary—making the history come alive.
Authentic Hands-On Experience: Many guests appreciated being able to ring the bells themselves, describing it as “fun,” “great,” and “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Stunning 360° Views: From the observation deck, you get an excellent perspective of Perth’s skyline and Swan River, ideal for photos and appreciating the city layout.
Great Value: For just $12, the mix of history, activity, and scenery makes this a very accessible and rewarding experience.

What Could Be Better

Some reviewers mentioned that the tour is quite short and that the actual tower tour itself doesn’t include a detailed look at the different levels beyond the observation deck. Also, the bell chiming sessions are at fixed times and fill quickly, so planning ahead is crucial. One guest pointed out that for those with a fear of glass elevators or open staircases, upper floors might be less accessible, so check accessibility options if needed.

If you’re someone who loves interactive experiences, historic artifacts, and stunning city views—all at an affordable price—this tour checks all those boxes. Families with kids enjoy the hands-on element, while history buffs appreciate the collection of bells and artifacts. It also suits travelers looking for a quick, memorable activity that offers a glimpse into Perth’s cultural side without demanding hours on your schedule.

The Perth Bell Tower with its bell chiming experience offers a surprisingly rich and engaging snapshot of the city’s heritage. At just $12, you get a mix of history, fun, and fantastic views that are hard to beat in a short time frame. The guided element and active participation elevate it above a simple sightseeing visit, turning it into a memorable adventure that appeals to a wide audience.

Whether you’re a solo traveler eager to learn, a family wanting a fun activity, or a history enthusiast, this experience delivers genuine value. The combination of authentic artifacts, friendly guides, and panoramic vistas makes it well worth prioritizing on your Perth trip.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the bell chiming sessions are limited to 25 participants and scheduled at set times Wednesday through Sunday, so booking ahead is highly recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 30 minutes, including entry, the interactive chime, and the view from the observation deck.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids often find ringing the bells particularly exciting, and the short duration keeps it engaging for younger visitors.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides offer commentary in English and Spanish, catering to a broader range of visitors.

Can I record my experience?
Yes, you can record a free video postcard during the chiming session, which can be uploaded to a YouTube channel.

Is the tower accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Perth Bell Tower is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the views and artifacts.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, and consider a camera or smartphone for photos. The tower is indoors, so no special gear is necessary beyond normal sightseeing essentials.