We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Camera Obscura

Douglas Head, Douglas
Update attraction details
Ranked #10 of 15 attractions in Douglas
Type: Lookouts
21 visitor photos
Write a Review

12 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    9
    2
    0
    1
    0
Date Rating
Reading Berkshire UK
Top Contributor
74 reviews 74 reviews
30 attraction reviews
Reviews in 31 cities Reviews in 31 cities
22 helpful votes 22 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 June 2013

Quite recently renovated I went to see it to bring back memories of my parents who took me here many many years ago to see Douglas via the clever multi mirrors or this Obscura-- It is fascinating watching the people wandering around the area on a flat table in front of you,. Worth visiting to see what we had a... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 8 more reviews by TTFan3d for Douglas
Midlands
Senior Contributor
42 reviews 42 reviews
20 attraction reviews
Reviews in 20 cities Reviews in 20 cities
21 helpful votes 21 helpful votes
2 of 5 stars Reviewed 15 May 2013

It was closed. There was no warning notice on the approach routes and indeed very little signage to direct visitors to its location.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 3 more reviews by MidlandsBoater for Douglas
Southampton, United Kingdom
Contributor
15 reviews 15 reviews
7 attraction reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 9 May 2013

The camera Obscura is a great Victorian gem unfortunately the opening hours are very limited . It's not going to set your world alight but at £2 entry it's worth every penny. Run by volunteers who were helpful and happy. Well worth the walk up the hill.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 4 more reviews by A_happy_traveller_13 for Douglas
Newdigate Dorrking
2 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 May 2013

This was an amazing experience and suitable for all ages - it was a wonderful invention and when you entered the obscura the 11 views were really good - although it was a little overcast when we went recently. You could also go outside and look back on the obscura and the people inside could see you. It is run... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Douglas Isle of Man
Senior Contributor
32 reviews 32 reviews
20 attraction reviews
Reviews in 9 cities Reviews in 9 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 April 2013

This camera obscura was very popular in the 1880's up to about the 1980's when it closed and was in danger of being lost for ever. However it was restored and is now once again a great visitor attraction. The views of Douglas Day and the hills in the distance are stunning. Not to be missed.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 13 more reviews by Malcolm O for Douglas
Isle of Man, United Kingdom
Top Contributor
79 reviews 79 reviews
31 attraction reviews
Reviews in 18 cities Reviews in 18 cities
38 helpful votes 38 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 23 September 2012

This is a great example of a “Victorian age” built Camera Obscura still in original condition. This one was first opened in the 1890’s and the full name for it is The Great Union Camera Obscura. It is located on Douglas head and has great views of the harbour, lighthouse and Douglas bay. Unlike some Camera Obscura’s this one has... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 12 more reviews by manxman12345 for Douglas
Marple, United Kingdom
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
3 attraction reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 14 September 2012

this was amazing to visit. Pictures so clesr, watching the grass move in the breeze and the sea. So cheap to go in, everyone should visit

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by 910Patricia for Douglas
Isle of Man, United Kingdom
Top Contributor
79 reviews 79 reviews
31 attraction reviews
Reviews in 18 cities Reviews in 18 cities
38 helpful votes 38 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 13 September 2012

This is a great example of a “Victorian age” built Camera Obscura still in original condition. This one was first opened in the 1890’s and the full name for it is The Great Union Camera Obscura. It is located on Douglas head and has great views of the harbour, lighthouse and Douglas bay. Unlike some Camera Obscura’s this one has... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 12 more reviews by manxman12345 for Douglas
Isle of Man, United Kingdom
Top Contributor
79 reviews 79 reviews
31 attraction reviews
Reviews in 18 cities Reviews in 18 cities
38 helpful votes 38 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 1 September 2012

This is a great example of a “Victorian age” built Camera Obscura still in original condition. This one was first opened in the 1890’s and the full name for it is The Great Union Camera Obscura. It is located on Douglas head and has great views of the harbour, lighthouse and Douglas bay. Unlike some Camera Obscura’s this one has... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 12 more reviews by manxman12345 for Douglas
East Retford, United Kingdom
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
5 attraction reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 1 September 2012

Make sure you have the up to date opening times, and get good directions. You can't park right outside it, you have to negotiate steps or gradients whichever way you approach it. I loved it! such simple principles with such basic equipment giving such a great result - I'm surprised there aren't more of these around. The volunteers meeting and... More

Was this review helpful? Yes

Travellers who viewed Camera Obscura also viewed

Douglas, Isle of Man
Laxey, Isle of Man
 
Castletown, Isle of Man
 

Been to Camera Obscura? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Camera Obscura, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing