WELCOME
Clifton Observatory is an unforgettable historic wedding venue in a unique location with stunning views overlooking Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge.
For many decades, Clifton Observatory has been an iconic piece of English Heritage and an important Bristol landmark with occupation of the site dating back to 800 BC when it was home to a Celtic tribe.
Originally built in 1766 as a windmill, the building was turned into an observatory by William West in 1829. Since then, Clifton Observatory has undergone many transformations and additions. Now this grade II* listed building is a gorgeous wedding and events venue with two bars, a Rooftop Terrace, and remarkable tourist attractions.
Since 2015, the iconic building has been restored under its current ownership, with the refurbishment of Camera Obscura & Giant’s Cave along with the opening of the 360 Rooftop Terrace, 360 Cafe and museum.
Our newly refurbished event space along with the rooftop terrace offers a unique and memorable venue with a tranquil atmosphere, incredible views, and exceptional service.
Clifton Observatory
Clifton Observatory
OUR PACKAGES
Based on a maximum of 60 guests seated or 120 standing
CEREMONY
Say ‘I do’ in the stunning William West room or on the gorgeous Rooftop Terrace.
2-hour hire period between 10AM - 4:30PM, Mon - Sun
Exclusive hire of Clifton Observatory, including William West Room & Rooftop Terrace
Say ‘I Do’ in one of our gorgeous, fully-licensed ceremony spaces
Post-ceremony glass of prosecco or orange juice
Use of Sonos Sound System & Rako Lighting System to create the perfect mood.
Rako Lighting System
Elegant décor: candles, fairy lights & uplights
Fully licensed bar & bar staff
Dedicated wedding manager
You & your guests are invited to explore the Clifton Observatory attractions, including the Giant’s Cave, museum, and Camera Obscura*
RECEPTION INTO EVENING
Please note that a registrar must be booked to attend your ceremony. This should be done as early as possible through Bristol Registry Office.
Celebrate your special day with a wedding breakfast and evening reception.
3pm - 12am Fri- Sat, 3pm - 11pm Thurs-Sun
Sit-down meal & evening reception
Exclusive hire of Clifton Observatory, including William West Room & Rooftop Terrace**
Tables, chairs & polycarbonate glassware
Glass of prosecco or orange juice on arrival
Use of Sonos Sound System & Rako Lighting System to create the perfect mood
Fully licensed bar & bar staff
Elegant décor: candles, fairy lights & uplights
Our team to handle set-up & transition the space(s) from meal to party
External caterers’ use of our kitchen and facilities
Front door security
You & your guests are invited to explore the Clifton Observatory attractions, including the Giant’s Cave, museum, and Camera Obscura*
Dedicated event manager
*No Alcohol is permitted in these areas. **Please note the Rooftop Terrace closes at 10:30PM
CEREMONY
& RECEPTION INTO EVENING 04
Host your full wedding day in our gorgeous venue, from early afternoon until late evening.
2pm - 12am Fri - Sat, 2pm - 11pm Thurs-Sun
Ceremony, sit-down meal, & evening reception
Exclusive hire of Clifton Observatory, including William West Room & Rooftop Terrace**
Say ‘I Do’ in one of our gorgeous, fully-licensed ceremony spaces
Tables, chairs & polycarbonate glassware
Arrival glass of prosecco or orange juice
Use of Sonos Sound System & Rako Lighting System to create the perfect mood.
Rako Lighting System
Elegant décor: candles, fairy lights & uplights
Our team to handle set-up & transition the space(s) from ceremony to meal to party
Fully licensed bar & bar staff
Front door security
Dedicated wedding manager
You & your guests are invited to explore the Clifton Observatory attractions, including the Giant’s Cave, museum, and Camera Obscura*
Enjoy exclusive hire of Clifton Observatory for your fairy-tale full wedding day.
Dedicated wedding manager 12pm - 12am Fri - Sat, 12pm - 11pm Thurs - Sun
Ceremony, sit-down meal, & evening reception
Exclusive hire of Clifton Observatory, including William West Room & Rooftop Terrace**
Say ‘I Do’ in one of our gorgeous, fully-licensed ceremony spaces
Tables, Chairs & Polycarbonate Glassware
Glass of prosecco or orange juice on arrival
½ bottle of red or white wine per guest
Use of Sonos Sound System, Rako Lighting System & AV (microphone & projector)
Fully licensed bar & bar staff
Elegant décor: candles, fairy lights & uplights
Our team to handle set-up & transition the space(s) from ceremony to meal to party
External caterers’ use of our kitchen and facilities
Front door security
You & your guests are invited to explore the Clifton Observatory attractions, including the Giant’s Cave, museum, and Camera Obscura*
*No Alcohol is permitted in these areas. **Please note the Rooftop Terrace closes at 10:30PM
Observatory
THE WILLIAM WEST ROOM
Furnished with a stunning chandelier and striking multitextured interior décor, the William West room is a unique space that can accommodate a range of layouts for ceremony and reception. With a bar, stage, Sonos music system, and Rako mood lighting, the William West can be seamlessly transformed from ceremony to reception by our efficient events team.
Clifton
Clifton Observatory
THE ROOFTOP TERRACE
The Rooftop Terrace is a beautiful and dreamy openair location with undeniably the best view in Bristol.
Couples are able to tie the knot or host their reception with the gorgeous backdrop of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. With an exclusive bar, Sonos music system, and panoramic views, your guests are sure to remember your event forever.
Clifton Observatory
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
We offer in-house decorations and you are welcome to enhance the beauty of the space with your own décor or speak to us about our recommended suppliers.
Both of our bars have flexible bar tab options. Each of our packages includes a complimentary welcome drink or celebratory toast, with non-alcoholic options available.
Our recommended caterers can offer a range of options to suit your taste and budget, from formal banquet dining to canapes or buffets.
You and your guests are invited to explore our attractions for a truly unforgettable experience and unique photo opportunities.
Capture your wedding in front of a stunning backdrop of the Clifton Suspension Bridge from the Rooftop Terrace and the surrounding area.
From silent discos to secret singing waiters, photobooths to magicians, we invite you to personalise your special day with our list of trusted recommended suppliers
Clifton Observatory
BOOK A VIEWING
Get in touch with a member of our events team to view our venue spaces
Viewings of our event space with a member of our team is by appointment only, but you are welcome to visit the cafe, attractions, and rooftop terrace, which is open to the public daily. Please note that the rooftop terrace may be closed to the public due to private events or poor weather conditions.
How to find us
Please note that Clifton Observatory does not have a dedicated car park. Parking on both sides of the Clifton Suspension Bridge is pay & display and from there it is a short walk to Clifton Observatory.
Take the number 8 service from Bristol Temple Meads or the number 5 service from the city centre. It is a short 5-minute walk from the Christ Church bus stop. BY BUS
BY CAR
The closest train station is Clifton Down, approximately a 30-minute walk away.
BY TRAIN
