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Canberra's National Carillion

The National Carillion is found on Aspen Island in Canberra, it was a gift from the government in Britain to the people of Australia in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the capital. Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1970 the Carillion stands 50 metres tall. In order to be classed as a Carillion there must be at the very least 23 bells and the National Carillion exceeds this with its 55 bronze bells, each weighing anywhere from seven kilograms upto six tonnes. Canberra's Carillion is in regular use and chimes every quarter of an hour, on the hour it plays a short tune. Regular recitals occur on many days and tours of the Carillion are also available.

There is not a place in the world more magical on Christmas Eve than being in Canberra, the nation's capital for the recital. Recitals are also used in the celebration of national days including Australia day. A great deal of musical expression is obtainable from the Carillion and many different styles of music represented in the hands of the competent carillionist.

If you want the best view and musical enjoyment of the National Carillion then you need to be within 100 meters of the Carillion where you should have a view, which is unobstructed. If you wish to meet the carillionist you are usually able to greet them at the base of tower around 5 minutes after the recital has concluded.

Venue Information

  • Bus Route
  • Wheel Chair
  • Opening hours
  • Bus Route r
  • Wheel Chair r
  • Opening hours r

Picture Gallery

Canberra Carillion location


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