The Camera Obscura

The first Camera Obscura opened in 1887, but burned down the same year. The present Great Union Camera Obscura located on the same site was opened in the 1890s and is one of only a few open in the British Isles. The camera started out with 12 lenses for viewing the surrounding area, but was reduced to 11 lenses in order to accommodate visitors. Built by Mr Fielding, the site was bought by the Heaton family who owned it until the 1990s.

In 2005 a £250,000 renovation ensured its future together with the Volunteers who maintain it and keep it open for tourists during the Summer season.