National Carillon: Canberra's Musical Landmark
Discover the National Carillon: a unique musical landmark in Canberra offering stunning views and regular bell concerts.
The National Carillon, a gift from Britain, stands on Queen Elizabeth II Island in Lake Burley Griffin. Housing 57 bronze bells, this iconic structure offers regular recitals and stunning views, making it a must-see in Canberra.
A brief summary to National Carillon
- Queen Elizabeth II Island, Parkes, Australian Capital Territory, 2600, AU
- +61262722902
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Attend a Sunday recital (11am-12pm) for a free concert showcasing the carillon's full musical range.
- Take a walk around Queen Elizabeth II Island to enjoy scenic views of Lake Burley Griffin and the Canberra skyline.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the island's BBQ and picnic facilities.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Canberra city center, walk south towards Lake Burley Griffin. Follow the lakeside promenade towards the National Gallery of Australia. Continue along the path to Queen Elizabeth II Island, where the National Carillon is located. The walk is approximately 30 minutes.
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Public Transport
From the Canberra city center, take bus routes 3, 55, 56, 59 or 182. Alight at the bus stop on Russell Drive, near the National Gallery. From there, it's a short walk across the Queen Elizabeth II Island footbridge to the National Carillon. A single bus fare costs around $3.20.
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Car
Drive towards Parkes, ACT, and use a GPS to navigate to Queen Elizabeth II Island. Parking is available near the island. From the car park, walk towards the footbridge that leads to the National Carillon. Parking fees range from $3.00 to $5.00 per hour.
Discover more about National Carillon
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