Please note our festive opening hours this Christmas for the attractions and the cafe:
24th December: 10AM-3PM
25th December: Closed
26th December: 11AM-3PM
1st January: 11AM-4PM

We are pleased to announce that our sister site, Armada House, has officially opened for weddings, events, and corporate hire! For a city-centre venue with capacity for up to 170, visit armadahousebristol.com!

Discover Our Story

Established in 1766, Clifton Observatory is an iconic landmark and an integral part of the Bristol landscape. The observatory has had a long and varied history, but one thing has remained consistent over the centuries: the spectacular and unforgettable views of Bristol, Avon Gorge, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

In 2015, we took on the incredible project of restoring Clifton Observatory. Over the past few years, we have worked hard to transform the observatory into a venue as unique as its views. Today, Clifton Observatory is home to the 360 café, a museum featuring a rare Victorian-era Camera Obscura, and the atmospheric and mythical Giant’s Cave.

Learn About Us

Tourist Attractions

It’s 8:01pm and we’re Open until 10:00pm

Explore Attractions

Our attractions are open to the public daily.

The observatory has a rich history and is home to many secrets. Explore the history of the site in our museum, marvel at the engineering genius of the Camera Obscura, and embark on an incredible adventure down to the Giant’s Cave to learn the legend of Ghyston, Goram, and Avona.

explore our attractions

360 Cafe & Rooftop

Visit Our Café

The 360 glass café currently offers takeaway options and outdoors seating, providing visitors with views of the Downs, the City of Bristol, and the Suspension Bridge. Located in the heart of Bristol, the café offers a variety of locally-sourced refreshments. Our speciality is luxurious, limited-edition hot chocolates with mounds of whipped cream, chocolate sauce, sprinkles, and a variety of indulgent toppings.

Find out more

Venue Hire

Hire Our Venue

The Clifton Observatory is an intimate and unique place to make memories and celebrate special occasions. A blank canvas with spectacular views, the observatory is the ideal venue to entertain guests with exquisite food and drink and create an unforgettable experience for everyone.

With indoor and outdoor space available for hire, including the striking rooftop terrace and the William West room, Clifton Observatory is the perfect place to host weddings, parties, and corporate events.

view our venue

“Clifton Observatory was the perfect venue for our party, not only does it offer the best view in Bristol overlooking the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, but its beautiful inside and out. We made the most of the roof terrace and vista in the glorious summer sunshine, then partied the night away in the William West Room – a brilliant combination. The Observatory team were incredibly helpful with planning.

Joanne Sadler, Director at Mango Consulting