Queen Elizabeth II Island: Canberra’s Carillon-Filled Retreat on Lake Burley Griffin

Why Queen Elizabeth II Island Stands Out

Positioned in the middle of Lake Burley Griffin, Queen Elizabeth II Island provides a rare pocket of calm within easy reach of Canberra’s parliamentary and cultural precincts. Unlike the surrounding parklands that border busy roads, the island is reached only by footbridge, creating an immediate sense of separation from the city. Its main feature is the National Carillon, a 55-bell instrument whose music drifts across the water on selected days, adding an unexpected soundtrack to picnics and strolls.

Things to See and Do

Begin with a slow circuit of the island’s perimeter path. The route is flat, well-shaded by eucalypts and native shrubs, and punctuated by lookouts that frame the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, Parliament House, and the distant Brindabella Ranges. Benches placed at regular intervals make it easy to linger. The Carillon itself sits at the northern tip; visitors can stand close enough to feel the resonance of the larger bells when a recital is underway.

Birdlife is abundant. Expect to see Australian wood ducks, purple swamphens, and occasional pelicans resting on the rocky shoreline. Early morning and late afternoon are best for photography, when the low light catches the white sails of dinghies on the lake and the stonework of the bell tower.

Getting There

Most visitors walk across the short footbridge from the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin near the National Gallery of Australia. The bridge is wide, level, and suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Cyclists can lock bikes at racks on the mainland side. Public ferries that circle the lake stop at the island on request; the crossing takes only a few minutes and offers a different perspective of the water’s geometry.

Best Time to Visit

Canberra’s spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) deliver the most comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. Recitals are more frequent during these seasons. Summer visits are still pleasant if timed for early morning or evening, while winter offers crisp air and the chance to hear the bells carrying farther across the still lake.

Nearby Attractions

After leaving the island, the National Gallery of Australia and the High Court are a ten-minute walk away. Further along the lakeside path lie the National Museum of Australia and Reconciliation Place. Those with more time can continue to the Parliamentary Triangle or cross Kings Avenue Bridge to explore the Royal Australian Mint.