Perth: The Premium Anzac Bell Tour at the Bell Tower

If you’re visiting Perth and looking for a short yet meaningful experience, the Anzac Bell Tour at the Bell Tower offers a unique opportunity to connect with history, enjoy breathtaking views, and participate in a cherished Perth tradition. This 45-minute small-group tour combines storytelling, hands-on bell chimes, and a visit to the tower’s observation deck, making it a memorable visit for both history buffs and casual travelers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to chime the ancient bells yourself creates a personal and engaging moment. Second, you’ll gain insight into the significance of the 6,500kg Anzac Bell and its connection to Australia’s military history. Third, the spectacular 360-degree views from the observation deck offer a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection.

One possible consideration? As a compact tour, it’s best suited for those who appreciate a focused, intimate experience rather than a lengthy exploration. Overall, if you’re interested in history, want a quick cultural fix, and love stunning cityscapes, this tour is ideal.

Contents show

Key Points

Engaging hands-on experience with bell chimes.
Educational insights into the Anzac legend and its significance.
Spectacular views from the tower’s observation deck.
Personalized keepsake with a free engraved medallion and certificate.
Exclusive access to areas like the ringing chamber and level 5 viewing platform.
Great value at just $21 for a memorable 45-minute experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Anzac Bell Tour Experience

The Perth Anzac Bell Tour is a carefully curated, small-group experience designed for those who want more than just a quick photo op. Instead, you’ll step behind the scenes of the iconic Bell Tower, an important Perth landmark, and learn about the history behind the 6,500 kg Anzac Bell. A highlight is the opportunity to chime the ancient bells, creating a personal connection to the tower’s storied past.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on interactive participation; you’re encouraged to ring the bells yourself, guided by experienced staff. Plus, the tour includes an exclusive visit to the observation deck, which offers sweeping views over the Swan River and Perth cityscape. Finally, the emotional moment when the Anzac Bell rings at midday leaves a lasting impression, especially for visitors who appreciate a meaningful connection to history.

The tour is compact, with a duration of just 45 minutes, making it a perfect addition to a busy sightseeing day or a quick cultural dive. It’s also wheelchair accessible, adding to its convenience for diverse travelers.

Looking for more options in Perth? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What to Expect on the Tour

Booking and Entry: Your experience begins with presenting your ticket at the Bell Tower entrance, where you’ll receive a token for the tour. This process is straightforward, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Once inside, you’ll be escorted to level 1 to meet your guide.

Behind-the-Scenes Bell Ringing: The main thrill comes in the ringing chamber, where your guide—an experienced storyteller—will demonstrate how to chime the ancient bells. This hands-on activity is not only fun but also enlightening, especially since visitors learn about the significance of each bell and the tradition of bell ringing.

Learning about the Anzac Legend: After the chimes, your guide will share stories about the history of the Anzac Bell and its symbolic role in respecting the Australian soldiers of World War I. Several reviews mention the thorough explanations and knowledgeable guides, with Jeff and Tony receiving particular praise for their clarity and storytelling skills.

Midday Ringing Ceremony: Next, you’ll ascend to level 5, where you’ll witness the powerful Anzac Bell ring at exactly midday for a full minute. Witnessing the bell vibrate with 6,500 kilos of bronze is quite moving, and many visitors describe it as an emotional highlight. It’s a moment that captures the spirit of remembrance and respect that the bell embodies.

Observation Deck and Finale: The tour culminates on level 6, the stunning observation deck with panoramic views over Perth, the Swan River, and beyond. Here, you can listen to a tune from WWI played on the coin-operated carillon, adding a musical touch to the experience. You’ll also receive a Bell Medallion and certificate—both engraved for free—serving as meaningful souvenirs.

Additional Exploration: If time permits, you’re free to explore the Bell Tower further, soaking in the history and architecture. The views from the deck are particularly striking at sunset, making this a versatile experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Entry and Meet-up

The process is smooth, with friendly staff guiding you to your token and initial briefing. You’ll be in a small group, which enhances the interactive aspect and ensures personalized attention.

More Great Tours Nearby

Behind the Scenes in the Ringing Chamber

This is the core of the tour. Standing in the chamber, you’re close to the ancient bells, feeling the vibrations and hearing their deep tones. The guide explains how the bells are used historically and ceremonially, adding context to this hands-on activity.

There's plenty more to explore in Perth

Learning the Significance of the Anzac Bell

This part of the tour is rich with stories about the symbolic importance of the bell in respecting soldiers and remembering service. Multiple reviewers mention the clarity and thoroughness of the explanations, with particular praise for Jeff’s storytelling prowess.

Witnessing the Midday Bell Ring

The highlight for many is the exact midday ringing, which is powerful and resonant. With the bell weighing 6,500kg, the sight and sound are quite impressive, especially accompanied by the historian’s narration on its historical significance.

Observation Deck and Soundscape

The 360-degree views from level 6 are truly something to behold. Many describe it as a perfect spot for photos and relaxing after the tour. The musical tune from the carillon adds a nostalgic touch, evoking memories of WWI.

Souvenirs and Final Touches

Every participant receives a medallion and certificate, engraved on the spot. Reviewers mention that the medallion makes for a special keepsake, especially since it can be engraved for free at the Perth Mint afterward.

The Value of the Tour

At just $21, this experience delivers excellent value. The inclusion of all-day entry tickets, the personalized medallion, and access to the observation deck makes it more than a quick glimpse—it’s a well-rounded cultural experience. For families, history enthusiasts, or solo travelers, the tour offers a meaningful and memorable activity that’s priced competitively.

While transportation isn’t included, the Bell Tower is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other Perth sights. The tour runs around 45 minutes, usually in the morning, which fits well into most sightseeing schedules without feeling rushed.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Several reviewers highlight the personalized attention during the tour. Carma from Australia mentions Jeff as an “excellent guide”, explaining things thoroughly and taking time for questions. This personal touch turns an ordinary tour into an engaging experience.

Others find the bell ringing emotional, as Angela notes: “Watching and hearing the ring of the Anzac Bell was very emotional… a superb experience.” The powerful sound of the bell and the storytelling create a connection to the history that many visitors find touching.

Some minor critiques include a comment about the guide’s voice being difficult to hear at times, highlighting the importance of a clear narration, especially in a large, open space.

The reviews consistently praise the stunning views, good value, and unique hands-on approach—elements that distinguish this tour from more generic city attractions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This short, impactful experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick cultural and historical fix without the commitment of a lengthy tour. It’s especially suitable for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in Australian heritage. If you enjoy interactive activities and spectacular cityscapes, this tour is a great choice.

It also works well as an introductory activity before exploring more of Perth or as a peaceful pause in a busy sightseeing day. Since it’s wheelchair accessible and includes engaging storytelling, it’s inclusive for a variety of visitors.

The Sum Up

The Perth Anzac Bell Tour at the Bell Tower offers a well-balanced mix of history, activity, and panoramic views for a reasonable price. Its focus on interactive bell chimes and storytelling makes it memorable, especially for those who appreciate authentic, personal experiences. The spectacular 360-degree views and the emotional power of the midday bell ringing add to its appeal.

This tour is best suited for visitors seeking a short but meaningful cultural experience that combines history with stunning scenery. The personalized attention and inclusion of souvenirs elevate it above typical city tours, making it a worthwhile addition to any Perth itinerary.

If you’re after a value-packed, engaging activity that leaves you with a sense of connection and beautiful memories, the Anzac Bell Tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 45 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. You can explore the Bell Tower using stairs or an elevator, so mobility concerns are manageable.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes all-day entry to the Bell Tower, participation in the bell chime demonstration, access to the observation deck, and a bell medallion and certificate.

Can I see the midday bell ring if I don’t join the tour?
The midday ring is exclusive to tour participants, and it rings exactly at noon. If you want to witness this powerful moment, joining the tour is the way to go.

Is there a guide or commentary during the tour?
Yes, the tour features a live guide who explains the history, demonstrates bell ringing, and answers questions. Reviewers praise guides like Jeff and Tony for their knowledge and storytelling.

Do I need to book in advance?
While you can often buy tickets on the day, booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth experience, especially during peak seasons.

The Perth Anzac Bell Tour at the Bell Tower provides a unique blend of history, hands-on activity, and spectacular views in a concise, accessible package. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a meaningful moment during your trip, this experience offers lasting memories at an unbeatable price.