Clifton Observatory and Caves

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Clifton Down Litfield Road
Bristol, England BS8 3LT
The Clifton Observatory and Caves sits above the Avon Gorge offering superb views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the city of Bristol. The Observatory houses one of the only camera obscuras still open to the public in the UK. Originally built as a windmill for corn in 1766, the mill was later taken over by William West in 1828 who then converted the building into his own artist studio and installed the camera obscura, which is still working today. The camera offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area including the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Avon Gorge & Clifton Downs. During his time at the Observatory West also cut an underground passage to the Giant's Cave which was originally only accessible via the cliff face. After a short descent into the cave guests can enjoy the spectacular views along the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge. The Observatory is open to visitors 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm in Spring/Summer and 10am-4pm in Autumn/Winter with last entry being 15 minutes before closing time.

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4.0555 reviews
Photo of Josh T
Good views of Clifton Suspension Bridge from the tower and caves
10/4/2024

Came here in late-September 2024. Explored all three floors of the observatory tower, with decent vi...

Photo of Pioneer697732
Worth to see
9/8/2024

Staff amazing. Not expensive. Interactive. Cave is interesting. Observatory gives knowledge about...

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