Bell Tower | Perth

The Bell Tower is one of Perth’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit attraction for both locals and tourists. Situated at Barrack Square, overlooking the Swan River, the Bell Tower is a striking structure and a key part of Perth’s skyline. It is renowned for its historical significance, stunning views, and unique role as the home of the Fremantle Bells—a set of 18 bells that were originally cast in England.

Overview

Location: Barrack Square, Perth (near Elizabeth Quay).

Height: Standing at 82.5 meters (271 feet) tall, the Bell Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the city.

Architecture: The tower itself is a modern glass and steel structure with a distinctive design that incorporates both traditional and contemporary elements. The building has a unique shape with a conical roof, designed to resemble a bell to reflect its purpose.

History of the Bell Tower

The Bell Tower was opened in 1999 as part of a project to celebrate Perth’s history and the role of the Fremantle Bells in the city's past. These bells were originally housed in the St. Martin’s Tower at Fremantle’s St. Martin’s Church, and they have a fascinating history that dates back to 1750 when they were cast in England. They were given to the people of Perth as a gift in 1988 as part of Australia's bicentennial celebrations, and they were brought over from England as part of the London’s famous Old Bell Foundry.

The Bell Tower was built to house these historical bells and to become a symbol of Perth’s history, providing a permanent and accessible location for both locals and tourists to learn about the bells’ heritage.

The Bells

The Fremantle Bells are of particular historical importance and are the key attraction of the Bell Tower. The bells were made in London’s Whitechapel Bell Foundry in the 18th century and are believed to have been rung at key moments in British history, including royal occasions, significant celebrations, and religious ceremonies.

The 18 bells housed in the tower are now used to create soundscapes that represent Perth’s connection to both its British colonial past and its multicultural present. The bells are non-automated and are manually rung by bell ringers, creating a powerful sound that reverberates throughout the area.

The Fremantle Bells include:

The Great Bell: Weighing around 1,400 kilograms, this is the largest bell in the set and is used to mark special occasions.

The Second Bell: Weighs about 1,100 kilograms and is used for general chiming.

Visitors Experience

One of the most exciting things about the Bell Tower is the opportunity for visitors to get involved with the bell-ringing experience. Interactive tours and bell-ringing sessions are available for those who want to try their hand at ringing the bells or simply learn about the history and traditions of bell ringing.

Tower Tours

Visitors can take a guided tour of the Bell Tower, where they can learn about its history, architecture, and the significance of the bells. The Bell Tower Experience typically includes:

A trip to the observation deck on the upper floors of the tower for panoramic views of Perth, the Swan River, and Elizabeth Quay.

A close-up view of the bells, including opportunities to watch bell ringers in action and hear the bells being rung.

The Observation Deck

The observation deck is located on the upper level of the tower and provides breathtaking views of Perth’s skyline, the Swan River, and the surrounding cityscape. On clear days, visitors can enjoy views extending over the city's landmarks, such as Kings Park, Cottesloe Beach, and Fremantle. It’s a fantastic place for photography or simply taking in the views of the bustling city and the river below.

Bell Ringing Experiences

For those interested in a more hands-on experience, the Bell Tower offers bell ringing sessions, where visitors can join in on ringing the famous Fremantle Bells. These sessions are a fun and interactive way to experience the historic art of bell ringing under the guidance of professional bell ringers. During these sessions, you can help ring the bells and contribute to the tower's enchanting sounds that echo across the river.

Interactive Displays

The Bell Tower also houses interactive exhibits that explain the history of the bells, the traditions of bell ringing, and the significance of the tower. You can learn about the engineering that went into the tower’s construction, as well as the important cultural and historical ties that the bells have with both England and Australia.

Special Events and Festivals

The Bell Tower is often used as a venue for special events and celebrations:

New Year’s Eve: The Bell Tower rings in the new year with a special chime ceremony.

Australia Day: The tower’s bells are rung to mark Australia Day and celebrate the nation’s history.

Music and Cultural Events: The tower sometimes hosts events such as bell concerts, where the bells are used as part of live performances.

Visitor Amenities

Gift Shop: The Bell Tower has a gift shop that offers a range of souvenirs, including bell-themed merchandise and other local gifts.

Cafe: There’s a small cafe near the tower where visitors can relax, enjoy a drink, and take in the views of the surrounding waterfront and parklands.

Wheelchair Access: The Bell Tower is fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments, with lifts and ramps to help access the different levels.

How to Get There

By Car: The Bell Tower is located in the central business district of Perth, with public parking nearby at Barrack Square or in the surrounding areas.

By Public Transport: You can easily access the Bell Tower by using public transport:

The Elizabeth Quay train station is just a short walk from the Bell Tower.

Ferries also stop at the nearby Barrack Square jetty, making it easy to arrive by water.

Conclusion

The Bell Tower is an iconic structure that blends modern architecture with Perth’s rich historical and cultural heritage. From its stunning views to its historical connection to the Fremantle Bells, the tower offers a unique experience that combines education, history, and interactive fun. Whether you’re interested in learning about the bells, ringing them yourself, or simply enjoying the views of Perth and the Swan River, the Bell Tower provides a memorable and enriching experience for all visitors.