This camera obscura is superbly placed. High above the Avon Gorge, it provides panoramic views of the dramatic scenery. The observatory was originally a windmill. After a fire in 1777 damaged the building, it stood derelict until rented to the artist William West in 1828. West installed the camera obscura which is still in working order and open to the public. West also cut a tunnel through the cliff to St Vincent’s cave, which looks out over the Gorge.