The ANZAC Bell Tour

If you’re visiting Perth and looking for a meaningful, compact experience that combines history, stunning views, and a touch of local symbolism, the ANZAC Bell Tour at the Bell Tower is worth considering. With a perfect 5.0 rating from over 80 reviews and a recommended status of 99%, this tour offers more than just a look at historic bells — it’s an insightful glimpse into Australia’s wartime heritage and the city’s vibrant waterfront.

What makes this tour stand out are its behind-the-scenes access, the powerful symbolism of the ANZAC Bell, and the beautiful Swan River views. It’s a short but impactful experience, ideal for history buffs, families, or anyone interested in Australian culture. That said, it’s a relatively quick tour at around 45 minutes to an hour, so it best fits into a day full of sightseeing rather than a standalone adventure.

One potential consideration is the cost—at just over $23 per person—it’s quite reasonable, but not including extras such as the medallion (which is offered as a take-home souvenir). Overall, if you value authentic, well-reviewed experiences that are both educational and scenic, this tour should definitely make your Perth itinerary.

Key Points

• Rich historical insight into the ANZAC Bell and its significance
• Behind-the-scenes access to the ringing chamber
• Spectacular views over the Swan River from the sixth-floor observation deck
• Engaging guide-led experience with expert commentary
• Affordable price point with included take-home medallion
• Limited group size for a more personalized experience

What to Expect from the ANZAC Bell Tour

Overview of the Experience

The tour is operated by The Bell Tower, located near Elizabeth Quay, a prime spot in Perth’s bustling riverside area. It’s designed as a small group premium experience, with a maximum of 14 travelers, which means you get more personal attention and richer interaction with your guide.

You’ll start at level 1, where your guide introduces you to the significance of the 6,500kg ANZAC Bell — a symbol of gratitude and remembrance for those who served in WWI. From here, the journey quickly ramps up as you step behind the scenes into the ringing chamber, getting a close-up look at the ancient bells and even trying your hand at ringing them, an experience described as both fun and memorable by previous visitors.

Midday Bell Ringing & Musical Touches

One of the highlights is the midday ringing of the ANZAC Bell — a powerful moment that’s synchronized with the tour and offers a real sense of the bells’ scale and resonance. Tour guides often play a popular WWI song on the Carillon located on the sixth-floor observation deck, adding an emotional layer to the experience.

From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over Perth’s cityscape and Swan River, making it a perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The tour’s timing makes it easy to catch the midday bell ringing, which many reviews praise as a poignant, memorable moment.

Medallion and Cultural Souvenirs

At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a take-home ANZAC Bell medallion, which you can have engraved for free at the nearby Perth Mint. This added feature makes the experience feel more tangible and personal — a nice keepsake of your visit that can be engraved with a special message.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the Bell Tower, located at Barrack Square. The tour kicks off at 11:30am, coinciding with the bell ringing at midday. The small group setup allows your guide—praised for their knowledge—to answer questions and share stories about the bells’ history, including the notable ANZAC Bell’s significance.

Level 1 is your first stop, where your guide explains the importance of the 6,500kg ANZAC Bell — a symbol of remembrance. From here, you’ll move into the ringing chamber, an enclosed space where you’ll witness the actual ringing process and potentially give it a try if you’re feeling brave.

Climbing to level 5, you’ll see the big bell in action during the midday ring, an event many reviewers note as a highlight. It’s impressive to see such a massive bell swing and resonate, especially with the emotional context surrounding ANZAC commemorations.

At level 6, your guide will play a popular WWI song on the Carillon, which enhances the atmosphere and offers a deeper connection to the historical theme. Afterward, you return to the ground level, where your medallion is presented.

Duration and Practicalities

The 45-minute to 1-hour duration makes it an easy addition to a busy sightseeing day. The tour fee covers all taxes and fees, with the option to purchase souvenirs or additional engraving services at the Perth Mint afterward.

The mobile ticket system allows for quick, contactless entry, and the tour is suitable for most travelers—including service animals. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guide.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers point out the knowledgeable guides, with some mentioning that their guide shared fascinating stories beyond just the bells, including details linking the Gallipoli campaign to the bells’ symbolism — though one reviewer noted that the connection could be clearer.

Another reviewer appreciated the personalized experience, noting that the tour “loved the way the guide explained the bells’ significance,” and found the chance to ring the bells both fun and memorable.

The views from the observation deck consistently draw praise, with visitors saying the panorama over Perth and the Swan River is “spectacular,” making the small extra effort worthwhile.

However, a few comments pointed out that the details about Gallipoli attached to the bell could have been more fleshed out, suggesting that history buffs might wish for a bit more context.

Practical Details

• Price: $23.73 per person — excellent value considering the behind-the-scenes access and panoramic views.
• Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Start Time: 11:30am, timed to catch the midday bell ringing.
• Meeting Point: The Bell Tower, Barrack Square, Riverside Dr, Perth.
• Availability & Booking: Booked an average of 26 days in advance, suitable for most travelers planning ahead.
• Group Size: Max 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Inclusions: All fees and taxes, a medallion to take home.
• Extras: Medallion engraving available at Perth Mint for free.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in WWI and Australian military history. It also suits families wanting a hands-on activity and photographers eager for stunning river views from the observation deck.

If you’re after a short, meaningful cultural experience that combines scenic beauty with educational content, the ANZAC Bell Tour hits the mark. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer guided interactions and small groups over large, impersonal tours.

However, those seeking a more extensive or active day might find this tour too brief. It’s best viewed as a complement to larger Perth explorations, not a standalone adventure.

The Sum Up

The ANZAC Bell Tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, scenery, and local symbolism. For just over $23, you get behind-the-scenes access, a chance to ring one of the world’s largest bells, and panoramic views of Perth’s iconic Swan River. It’s a well-reviewed, engaging experience that feels personal and meaningful thanks to its small-group setup and knowledgeable guides.

This tour suits travelers who are interested in Australia’s wartime history, those looking for a scenic break from city sightseeing, or visitors who want a tactile, memorable souvenir like the medallion. Its affordability and high ratings make it a solid choice for anyone wanting a short but impactful cultural activity in Perth.

For anyone craving a deeper understanding of local heritage paired with spectacular views, the ANZAC Bell Tour is a true highlight.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children often enjoy ringing the bells and exploring the tower.

How long does the experience last?
It takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, making it a quick yet engaging activity.

Can I see the bells being rung at any other time?
The tour is timed to include the midday ringing of the ANZAC Bell — a key feature of the experience.

Is the tour indoors or outdoors?
Much of the experience is indoors, particularly in the ringing chamber, but you’ll also spend time on the outdoor observation deck.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions, but the experience involves climbing and ringing bells, so supervision might be needed for very young children.

What is included in the ticket price?
All fees and taxes are included; you will also receive a medallion as a souvenir.

Can I purchase additional souvenirs?
Yes, souvenirs like the engraved medallion can be purchased or engraved at the Perth Mint after your tour.

Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, as most bookings are made about 26 days ahead, it’s recommended to secure your spot early.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for climbing stairs are recommended; weather-appropriate attire for the outdoor deck is also advised.

In summary, the ANZAC Bell Tour at Perth’s Bell Tower is a thoughtfully curated experience worth considering for a meaningful, scenic, and well-reviewed activity that celebrates history while offering fantastic river views.