Clifton Observatory, Clifton, Bristol, Somerset
High up on the Downs, Clifton Observatory is one of Bristol’s key landmarks, with stunning views over the city, Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge. It’s worth visiting for that glorious panoramic vista alone, but you should also see the museum with its rare Victorian camera obscura, and the Giant’s Cave.
The museum is set over three floors; the first sets out the unique timeline of the observatory’s history, the second floor has a collection of old photographs and information about old Bristol, and on the top floor is the camera obscura, one of only three of its kind in working order in the UK. It’s a Victorian pre-cursor to CCTV and can be rotated to give a 360 degree view of Bristol. The Giant’s Cave is a natural limestone cave deep down in the depths of the Avon Gorge and as is accessed by a 200ft long tunnel. It opens out onto the cliff face 250ft above the gorge to give a fantastic perspective of the suspension bridge.
Round off your visit with a focaccia toastie or locally baked cake in the 360 café and if the weather is good, sit out on the rooftop terrace high above the treetops.
Open every day 10 am-5 pm Apr-Oct and 10 am-4 pm Nov-Mar
T: 0117 974 1242
All information correct at the time of writing