National Carillon

The National Carillon sits on Queen Elizabeth II Island (Aspen Island) on Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra, near the Parliamentary precinct. A striking landmark, this elegant tower houses a grand carillon — a musical instrument of many tuned bells — and is one of the capital's most distinctive sights, set in a beautiful lakeside location reached by a footbridge.

The appeal is that combination of a beautiful landmark, a lovely lakeside setting and the unique experience of hearing the carillon's bells: the tower is a graceful sight on the lake, the island and surrounds make for a lovely stroll, and the regular carillon recitals fill the air with music. It's a genuinely special and peaceful spot in the heart of the capital.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 700 reviews, it's a much-loved landmark. The island and surrounds are free and open, but carillon recital times, any tower access and events vary, so it's worth checking the recital schedule before a special trip — and taking sun protection on the exposed island — while enjoying the landmark, the lakeside setting and the bells of the National Carillon.