Swan Bells form the centrepiece of Barrack Square in Perth, the state capitol of Western Australia. Perth is serviced by international and domestic flights, trains and cruise ships. Coach tours are available but the only regular service runs across the Nullarbor Plain from Adelaide in South Australia.
There are several 4 and 5 star hotels and holiday apartments within walking distance of Barrack Square and any type of accommodation you desire is to be found within the city of Perth.
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The 18 bell set is hung in the specially built Swan Bell Tower. The 82.5 m (271ft) copper and glass campanile was designed by Hames Sharley and the six story bell chamber is made from reinforced concrete to handle the structural stress created by the 9 tonnes of bells.
Given to the people of Western Australia as part of the bicentennial celebrations in 1988, Swan Bells are one of the largest sets of change ringing bells in the world and are comprised of some of the only known Royal Bells to leave England. 12 of the bells date from the 14 century, though were recast by Queen Elizabeth I in the 16 century and again in the 1700's at the order of King George II. Surrounding the bell tower is an inlaid path of ceramic tiles which were created, decorated and signed by almost every school student of Western Australia in 2000.
Swan Bells, named after Swan River which it overlooks, are the main focus of Barrack Square and are only a short walk from Perth CBD. Barrack Square and Elizabeth Quay have been the hub of river transport since 1829 and a public place and landscape feature since 1905. There are kiosks, cafes and restaurants and the jetties are a staging point for water cruises including cruises to other landmarks such as Perth Zoo and Rottnest Island.
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