National Carillon (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is National Carillon?
What makes it 87% Couple-Friendly: Couples can share sunset picnics, listen to live chimes, and climb the tower for views, giving them a romantic, low-cost outing with minimal logistical hurdles, so suitability is very high.
Positives:
- Free entry: Access to the island, chimes and picnic areas is free of charge.
- Musical backdrop: Quarter-hour chimes and recitals add ambiance without booking.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Few sheltered spots on the island; seats get sun exposure midday.
- Tour availability: Guided tours fill up quickly; plan and book in advance.
What is National Carillon?
- A 50-metre-tall bell tower on Aspen Island in Lake Burley Griffin
- A carillon comprising 55 bronze bells, each weighing between 7 kg and 6 tonnes, playable manually or automatically
- A British government gift marking Canberra’s 50th anniversary, framed by three slender concrete columns inlaid with quartz and opal
What is so special about National Carillon for couple trip?
- Picnic on Aspen Island at sunset overlooking Lake Burley Griffin
- Enjoy automated chimes and live carillon recitals
- Snap romantic photos against the quartz-clad tower
- Climb inside on a guided tour for panoramic city views
- Pilot an electric boat for a lakeside adventure together
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to enjoy chimes, picnic and optional tower tour without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in National Carillon
Lakeside sunset picnic:
Spread a blanket on Queen Elizabeth II Island lawn and share snacks as the sun dips over Lake Burley Griffin.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for best colors and minimal crowds.
Bell chimes & live recitals:
Hear automated Westminster chimes every 15 minutes or live recitals on Sundays and Wednesdays at 12:30 pm.
Tip: Check recital schedule on the NCA website and arrive early to grab a bench.
Romantic photoshoot:
Use the quartz-clad columns and footbridge as a backdrop for golden hour portraits.
Tip: Bring a small reflector or tripod to steady low-light shots after sunset.
Guided tower tour:
Take a 45-minute tour inside the carillon, play a bell clavier and enjoy city views from 36 m high.
Tip: Book online at least a week ahead and wear closed shoes for the stair climb.
Electric boat hire:
Rent a GoBoat from Kingston Harbour and pilot a picnic boat around the island.
Tip: Reserve a boat online for a 1-hour slot and pack a sealed cooler with drinks.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Carillon
- Early arrival: Come 15 minutes before a recital to find a good viewing spot.
- Pack light: Use a backpack for snacks and camera gear to navigate stairs easily.
- Check weather: Review wind and rain forecasts, as the island is exposed.
Reviews of National Carillon
Graeme Forbes
The carrillion was a gift from the UK government to Canberra and has bells from .5 kg to 7000kg They’re played for about an hour on Wednesday and Sunday Many people picnic in the nearby park to listen to the music It’s a beautiful place
David “Dingo” Bolin
Lovely place to come for a picnic. Stroll around, relax and listen to the bells play. Night time it is all lit up and is very impressive. Sit down on a seat and watch the ducks, swans, or people paddling. Or even the rest of the world walk and run by. I personally just get lost in my thoughts while looking out over the lake enjoying a coffee.
Vicki Wallis
Great tour. Such a shame the carillonist Thomas is losing his job due to ANU closing the school of music. Why is my question?
Evalyn Venture
A fantastic feature of Canberra. There are recitals lasting an hour twice a week, where they play classical music and movie soundtracks on the 70 odd bells. Check their website for times and dates in case it changes. There are inexpensive hour long tours after each recital, where you can meet the carilionists, see the keyboard where they play, and the bells in the belfry. There are great views of ...
Zahra Zafira
A nice little island to enjoy an afternoon picnic or walk/jog around it. A good spot to view the sunset, because the sun sets across the lake, overlooking the Parkes area (National Library, Parliament House, National Gallery, etc.). The bell chimes every hour (I think), but it chimed every 15 mins towards sunset time (I’m not exactly sure but that’s what happened).
When is the best time to visit National Carillon (Canberra, Australia)?
In summer, pack sunscreen and water; the quartz facade glows at sunset. In winter, bring a windbreaker for island breezes.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Guided tower tour (2 adults) | AUD 34.38 |
| Electric boat hire (1h) | AUD 139 |
| Picnic supplies | AUD 20 |
| Coffee near the lake | AUD 12 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 205.38 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of National Carillon
Address: Queen Elizabeth II Island, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides National Carillon (Canberra)?
About National Carillon
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 6272 290210 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, couple trip
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities