The Observatory

The Observatory is an 1862 building constructed for The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society. It features stucco on masonry with channelled rustication on the square-plan ground floor, which includes a small rear wing. Above this, the structure is octagonal, topped with a frieze and a deep cove at the parapet. The steep roof is covered with asbestos slate and has four dormers with 20th-century glazing, along with a steep roof on the wing. The building has three storeys plus an attic that contains an observation room. It is adorned with small round-arched windows fitted with horned sashes, as well as three square-headed windows. The doorway is located on the south side within a lean-to on the right, featuring a 20th-century door. Although the interior was not inspected, it is reported to retain the original reflectors and staircase. Historically, this building was used for keeping meteorological records until the early 1950s. The Royal Polytechnic Society was established in 1833 by Anna-Maria and Caroline, the teenage daughters of Robert Were Fox, who, as Quakers, aimed to improve the well-being of the working classes and promote innovative ideas and inventions.