Bell Ringing St John's Cathedral

May 11, 2025, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Step inside St John’s Cathedral and experience the magic of its 12 magnificent bells, housed in the central tower for traditional English-style change ringing. Ranging in weight from 245kg to 835kg, these historic bells ring out every Sunday for services and on special occasions such as weddings.

St John’s is one of only two towers in Brisbane and one of just three in Queensland, where bells are arranged for this unique style of ringing.

With a fascinating history dating back to 1876, the bells were originally cast by the world’s oldest bell foundry, the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London. However, it wasn’t until 1988 that they were finally and properly installed in the Cathedral’s bell tower for full-circle ringing, with a special dedication on March 13 of that year.

Visitors will have the rare chance to climb 105 stairs, walk along the inside of the stunning stone-vaulted ceiling, and reach the bell tower and ringing room. Enjoy live ringing demonstrations and even try your hand at chiming a bell yourself.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore the history and sound of St John’s Cathedral from a whole new perspective.

Note:

The Bell Tower can only be reached by walking up the stone stairway with 105 steps.
Very limited free parking available near the venue.  

It is an easy walk from Brisbane CBD and public transport.