Swan Bells

Eighteen bells held high above the Swan River, the Swan Bells are Perth’s most unusual – and most magical – attraction.

The bells are housed in a specially made copper and glass shard that stands 82.5 metres tall. 12 of the bells are from St Martin-in-the-Fields church in London’s Trafalgar Square, and their history can be traced back as far as the 14th Century. Re-cast more than twice over their lifetime, the St Martin-in-the-Fields bells are one of the few sets of royal bells in existence – and the only ones known to have left England.

Six new bells have been added to the collection to commemorate both Australia’s bicentenary and the crossing over into the 21st century. The Swan Bells are named for the Swan River, on whose banks they sit. Tours behind the scenes of the bell tower are incredibly popular, as visitors are afforded the chance to ring the bells, and stunning views over Perth and the river.

Tours of the bell tower give visitors an insight to the history of the bells and the controversy that surrounds them, and a glimpse into the magical art of bell ringing. The audio visual system at the tower ensures that visitors don’t miss out if they’re at the tower when the bells aren’t ringing.

Practical Info

The bell tower is open from 10am daily, though closing time is seasonal and apt to change. The bells ring from 12-1pm everyday but Wednesdays and Fridays. On these days, a single bell handling demonstration runs from 11:30-12:30. Entry to the bell tower is $14 for adults, $9 for children and $30 for a family ticket.