Australian Capital Territory · Attraction
Lake Burley Griffin and the National Carillon
Bells over the capital's lake
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Lake Burley Griffin is the scenic centrepiece of Canberra, a 35-kilometre shoreline that links the city's major cultural institutions along Walter Burley Griffin's original design. At its heart, on Queen Elizabeth II Island, stands the National Carillon, a 50-metre bell tower gifted by Britain in 1970 to mark Canberra's 50th anniversary, housing 57 bronze bells that peal out across the Parliamentary Triangle.
The carillon's bells span nearly five octaves, and are played by a resident carillonist from a specially designed keyboard. Free public concerts are held regularly, performing everything from Bach to contemporary film scores, with the Westminster chimes sounding through the day.
The lake foreshore itself is a world-class walking and cycling circuit, with the loop passing the National Library, Questacon, National Gallery, and Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet. Kayak and paddleboard hire, lakeside cafes at Kingston Foreshore, and an annual hot air balloon festival make the lake a destination in every season.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Lake Burley Griffin and the National Carillon.
2 options via our booking partner
Canberra Holiday Village
4.2km away
Eaglehawk Holiday Park Canberra
12.5km away
Bookings handled by our partner Parkbooker. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Scenic views
