Clifton Observatory
Tourist Attractions
Litfield Place
, Clifton
, BS8 3LT
Bristol
, Bristol
Please note that the attractions at Clifton Observatory have seasonal hours: From November 1st - March 31st the attractions close at 4PM with last entry at 3:45PM.
Business profile
Clifton Observatory
First constructed in 1766 on the site of a Celtic Iron Age fort, Clifton Observatory was originally a windmill. In 1828, artist William West transformed the building into an Observatory, installing many telescopes and other astronomical equipment, including an incredible 5 ft Camera Obscura which still operates today, offering unique views of Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge. Clifton Observatory also offers the only access to the legendary Giant's Cave, a 200 ft passageway through the rocks to a viewing platform set in the steep cliff-face of Avon Gorge. Today, Clifton Observatory is a popular tourist destination with unique attractions and a cafe. Clifton Observatory can also be hired for private events. The William West room - which boasts a stage, bar, and a comprehensive AV system - along with the Rooftop Terrace with its stunning views of Clifton Suspension Bridge, are both available for exclusive hire. Clifton Observatory is the perfect venue for your dream event, from summer parties to weddings.
Unique tourist attractions and cafe at Clifton Observatory
In 1828, William West installed several telescopes and a range of other astronomical resources and instruments at Clifton Observatory, including the Camera Obscura. The Camera Obscura offers a unique view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Avon Gorge. Visitors can experience what is sometimes nicknamed ‘Victorian CCTV’ – a remarkable feat of Victorian engineering which still fascinates and astonishes people to this day, almost two centuries later. During his time at Clifton Observatory, West also pioneered the excavation of an underground passageway to the Giant’s Cave, which was originally only accessible via the sheer and dangerous cliff-face. Now visitors can adventure down 130 steps through the rocks to the Cave, where spectacular views and the legendary giants wait. Clifton Observatory also houses a café with indoor and outdoor seating and a range of locally-sourced refreshments, along with a spectacular rooftop terrace where visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views – the best in the city. The café is known for its indulgent luxury hot chocolates with decadent toppings, and offers a variety of seasonal flavours along with fan favourites such as Salted Biscoff and S'mores.
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Testimonials
Perfect day
Just wanted to say a massive thank you to the whole team for making out day so special. Everyone was so friendly and helpful and you really went above and beyond to make our day perfect.
Fantastic team
Wow, what a day yesterday was!! It was incredible and your team were fantastic in every way. We know there were so many to thank and please pass on our thanks to all, but from the names that we remember in particular… a massive thanks goes out to Lisa, Kaitlin and Ruby. And of course, yourself!! We had so many compliments from our guests particularly on how great the team were, so thank you.
The dream venue
The dream venue! We got married by a registrar on the terrace overlooking the suspension bridge and it was perfect and utterly dreamy. The venue coordinator was extremely helpful and everything went very smoothly. Surely this is the best venue in Bristol?! We felt like we were flying in the sky and we were surrounded by nature, while also being in the middle of Bristol. Guests also get free access to the Giant’s Cave and Camera Obscura, which is a fun extra.