Clifton Observatory Bristol
Historic observatory with a windmill, offering panoramic views of Clifton Suspension Bridge and a unique Camera Obscura experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Clifton Observatory Bristol
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic observatory with a windmill, offering panoramic views of Clifton Suspension Bridge and a unique Camera Obscura experience.
"Stunning views from the observatory & cave was interesting, so a must see when you visit!"
Wear a Hard Hat! ⛑️
Essential for the Giant's Cave to avoid bumping your head.
Picnic Perfection 🧺
The grounds offer lovely spots for a picnic with a view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Camera Obscura
Observatory Tower
A fascinating historical device projecting a live panoramic view of Bristol onto a circular table.
Giant's Cave
Underground
Explore a unique cave system with stunning views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Panoramic Views
Observatory Hill
Breathtaking vistas of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge, perfect for picnics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Tickets & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Advice on fiesta/sightseeing
Wear a Hard Hat! ⛑️
Essential for the Giant's Cave to avoid bumping your head.
Picnic Perfection 🧺
The grounds offer lovely spots for a picnic with a view.
Best views in Bristol?
Clifton Observatory / Suspension Bridge worth it for New Years?
Cave Navigation 🚶♀️
Be mindful of narrow passages and uneven surfaces in the cave.
Bridge Views Galore 🌉
The best bridge views are often from the hill, not just the tower.
Vacation
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear a Hard Hat! ⛑️
Essential for the Giant's Cave to avoid bumping your head.
Picnic Perfection 🧺
The grounds offer lovely spots for a picnic with a view.
Cave Navigation 🚶♀️
Be mindful of narrow passages and uneven surfaces in the cave.
Bridge Views Galore 🌉
The best bridge views are often from the hill, not just the tower.
Photography Tips 📸
Netting in the cave can be tricky, but there are openings for cameras.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Clifton Observatory for its stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge, making it a lovely spot for picnics. The Camera Obscura and the adventurous Giant's Cave are highlights, offering unique historical and thrilling experiences at an affordable price. Some find the cave passages narrow and the tower views less open than expected.
"It was a good summer day. stunning view. lovely space for picnic, relaxing.they do have a cafe. Went down the tunnel and reach the giants cave.had the experience of camera obscura. Pram friendly most of the parts. They do hostimg seasonal events.friendly staff."
disni nissanka
"Nice little attraction next to the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The area in front of the observatory is probably the best for views of the bridge, particularly from the hill itself. There's a statue of Wallace from Wallace and Gromit just outside that bears a resemblance to Brunel which is cool, as a part of a trail on at the moment.
The observatory tower was a little bit disappointing as it isn't open air - there are windows, a few of which open although I'm not sure if they're supposed to, with a cool but incredibly warm camera obscura at the top. Not the best views of the bridge to be honest, I preferred from underneath the observatory, in the caves.
The caves were really good - a bit narrow and hard to pass people coming the opposite way, and I did hit my head a couple of times which was a pain. Some parts have uneven surfaces, but it's understandable as it's literally a cave. The views are great, with netting and a fence blocking them a bit but big enough to fit a camera through. The viewing area has a metal but see-through floor which I can understand a lot of people not liking very much, although there's plenty of hard floor behind it if you don't.
Overall, good but not the best. It's only a fiver though for both areas so pretty worth it for the price. There's also a restaurant with open air views but I don't venture up there."
Adam White
"If you have no plans for a bank holiday weekend, this is the perfect little day activity. The museum was great, and I thoroughly enjoyed the Camera Obscura. The Giant's Cave is a great adventure, and the views are brilliant. Definitely needed a hard hat as I would have hit my head multiple times if not"
Renata Hanko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The observatory is accessible by public transport, with buses stopping nearby. Parking can be challenging, so consider walking from the city center or using public transport.
Parking is limited and can be a long walk away, so it's often recommended to use public transport or walk.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the city center, though it can take around 24 minutes.
Taking a bus or enjoying a scenic walk are popular options.
Buses are available, and walking is a viable and enjoyable option for many visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A combined ticket for the observatory tower, camera obscura, and Giant's Cave is around a fiver, making it quite affordable.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance might be advisable during peak seasons or for special events to secure your spot.
Your ticket typically includes access to the observatory tower, the camera obscura experience, and the underground Giant's Cave tour.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or families is usually available on their official website or at the ticket counter.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official Clifton Observatory website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a historical optical device that projects a live, panoramic image of the surrounding area onto a circular table, offering a unique perspective of Bristol.
The cave can be narrow and has uneven surfaces. Visitors prone to claustrophobia or with mobility issues might find it challenging. Wearing a hard hat is recommended.
The most stunning views are of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge, particularly from the hill in front of the observatory.
Most parts of the observatory grounds are pram-friendly, but the Giant's Cave itself is not accessible with a pram due to its narrow and uneven nature.
Yes, the observatory often hosts seasonal events, so it's worth checking their schedule for any special activities during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The hill overlooking the Clifton Suspension Bridge offers iconic shots. The cave also provides unique photographic opportunities through its openings.
Yes, you can take photos inside the cave, but be mindful of the netting and the narrow passages. There are openings large enough to fit a camera through.
The camera obscura itself is an experience, but it's not designed for taking direct photographs of the projected image. The views from the tower windows are better for photography.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive views of the bridge and gorge. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for lower light conditions, though may be difficult to use in the cave.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure about commercial photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The grounds are generally pram-friendly, making it easier to navigate with little ones. The open hill area is perfect for a picnic or letting kids burn off some energy while enjoying the spectacular views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It's a good option for a half-day outing that combines history, a bit of thrill, and beautiful scenery.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Visitors can further save money by bringing their own picnic to enjoy on the scenic grounds, rather than purchasing food at the on-site cafe or nearby restaurants. The accessibility via public transport or even a walk from the city center also helps keep travel costs down.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Giant's Cave offers unique photographic opportunities with its natural formations and the chance to shoot through openings towards the bridge. While challenging due to the confined space, the results can be very rewarding. The Camera Obscura is more of an experience than a photographic subject, but the views from the tower windows are also worth capturing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Giant's Cave
It's highly recommended to wear a hard hat as provided, as it's easy to bump your head in certain sections. The cave features a viewing area with a metal, see-through floor, which some find thrilling and others unsettling. Despite some netting and fencing, there are ample openings to capture fantastic photographs of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the gorge below.
Be prepared for a bit of a squeeze, especially when passing other visitors coming in the opposite direction. The cave's historical significance and the thrill of exploration make it a memorable part of the Clifton Observatory visit, especially considering its affordable entry fee.
The Magic of the Camera Obscura
While the tower itself has windows, the camera obscura offers a unique, almost magical, visual experience that differs from simply looking out. It provides a historical glimpse into how people once viewed and understood their surroundings before modern photography. The experience is often described as 'cool' and is a key reason many visitors enjoy the observatory.
It's important to note that the observatory tower has windows, some of which may open, but the primary draw for many is the camera obscura itself. The views from the tower are still pleasant, but the camera obscura provides a distinct and memorable interactive element to the visit.
Views and Picnics on Observatory Hill
Unlike the sometimes confined spaces within the observatory or caves, the hill offers an open and expansive vista. It's a popular spot for photographers and anyone who simply wants to soak in the beauty of the Bristol landscape. The presence of a statue resembling Wallace from Wallace and Gromit, which also bears a resemblance to Brunel, adds a touch of local charm and is part of a current trail.
While the observatory tower offers views, the open space of the hill provides a more relaxed and accessible way to enjoy the scenery. It's a great place to start or end your visit, offering a peaceful environment to appreciate the iconic bridge and the natural beauty of the gorge.
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