The Clifton Observatory sits on the edge of the Avon Gorge, within the grounds of the Clifton Downs, with sweeping views across the gorge and toward the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The small tower, converted from an 18th-century windmill, houses a working camera obscura that projects a circular moving image of the gorge and the surrounding landscape onto a viewing table — on a clear day, the effect of watching real-time life unfold silently on the white disc is genuinely magical.
A tunnel from the observatory leads down through the cliff to Giant's Cave, a natural cave opening directly over the gorge with dramatic views straight down to the river below. The combination of the camera obscura, the gorge views, and the cave makes this a worthwhile stop for any visitor to Clifton. Entry to the observatory and cave is paid (modest fee); the walk from Clifton Village is about ten minutes across the Downs.