**Our tickets for the Clifton Observatory Cave were gifted by Visit Bristol**
Perched high above the Avon Gorge, the Clifton Observatory is known for one of the best viewpoints in Bristol, looking right out across the city and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. What many visitors may not realise, though, is that there’s also an adventure that lies beneath it, with the Clifton Observatory Cave hidden deep within the rock.
The Camera Obscura and museum
Before heading down into the cave itself, it’s well worth heading upstairs. The observatory is home to a traditional camera obscura: an optical device that projects a live, 360-degree image of the outside world onto a viewing table.
We stepped inside and shut the door, our eyes taking a few seconds to adjust to the darkness. Our son was captivated by the views of the Suspension Bridge on the table, amazed by the fact that he could even see the cars driving one by one across the bridge.
Upstairs in the Observatory you’ll also find a small museum that shares the history of the building, which dates back to 1766. You’ll also enjoy some incredible views across Bristol and the Avon Gorge.
The descent
Back down at ground level, it’s time to don your hard hat and prepare to enter the Giant’s Cave. As you reach the door to descend, a safety notice prepares you for what’s to come: 130 steep and uneven stairs, low ceilings (as low as 150cm in places), narrow spaces (75cm at the passageway’s narrowest), potentially slippery surfaces. Of course, all of this was hugely exciting for the eight-year-old – especially when he saw us inadvertently bang our heads a few times (very glad of the helmets!)
At the cave’s entrance, artwork on the wall points to the legend of the giants that supposedly lived there. With enticing lighting, the first staircase down builds excitement for what is to come.
The cave itself
At the end of the descent, you find yourself inside a natural limestone cavern, beautifully lit and an impressive sight. There are plenty of dark spaces that kids will love peering into – and keep an eye out for the giants’ footprints on the floor…are they real, or are they manmade…?
Whether you buy into the stories of the Clifton giants or not, the legend certainly adds an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.
The views
The literal light at the end of the tunnel is a great opportunity for both locals and visitors to Bristol alike: a small viewing platform in the cliff face, high above the Avon Gorge. A cut-out of Isambard Kingdom Brunel stands proudly in front of the incredible view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge – a great photo opportunity!
From here, the scale of the Avon Gorge really does hit you – especially with the gaps between the metal bars beneath your feet. It’s possibly not the best choice of activity for those with a fear of heights, but it’s an impressive view, and peaceful, too.
The practicalities
The enclosed nature of the cave itself and the height of the viewing platform at the end mean that those with claustrophobia, vertigo or mobility issues may want to give this a miss. Be prepared for your legs to get a good workout, too, when you climb back up the steps after your Clifton Observatory Cave experience!
Tickets can either be bought via the website or on arrival – there are no allocated time slots. These are priced at £5 for adults and £2.50 for children aged 4-14 for full access, with lower-priced tickets available if you only want to visit part of the attraction. There’s a small gift shop just inside the main entrance to the caves, as well as a cafe within the observatory for refreshments.
There’s parking available on the Downs or in Clifton Village, but be prepared for steep parking prices!
The Clifton Observatory Cave is one of Bristol’s best hidden gem attractions, in my eyes, combining history with a sense of adventure and a dash of local legend. If you’re visiting Clifton, I definitely recommend not just stopping for the view at the top – but going beneath the ground, too.