One of the Island's stranger attractions, the Great Union Camera Obscura was constructed in 1887 for tourists to, well, let's not be coy about it, spy on other tourists.
Using a series of lenses and mirrors, it allows a 360° view of Dougles Head and harbour. Its design is unusual and, possibly, unique in that most cameras obscura feature a single, rotating lens whereas ours was built with eleven stationary lenses, projecting onto fixed tables.
Sadly neglected and left in a state of considerable decay for many years, the Camera Obscura has been fully and carefully restored to its former glory and provides an oddly other-worldly experience, as the silent tableaux unfold around you in the muted half-light. It's definitely worth a visit as one of the few places where you can experience genuine Victorian holiday entertainment in its purest form.
Access
There is plenty of on-road parking nearby and there is an even, although sloping, path to the camera obscura. Access to the interior of the site is limited for disabled visitors due to a narrow doorway and the low lighting levels needed for the images to be viewed. There are no toilets at the site.
Contact Details
Douglas Head
Douglas
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Location
Google Maps Directions
Opening Hours
Open May to mid-September (when the flag is flying)
Saturdays 1pm - 4pm
Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am - 4pm
Admission
Admission is £2 for adults, £1 for senior citizens and students. Children are free. There are no card facilities, so it's cash only.
Published: 24 May 2023
The information provided is correct at the time of publishing. Please check with the organisation involved for the most up to date information.
