Clifford's Tower
Clifford's Tower: Medieval Keep with Spectacular City Views
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What awaits you on site
York's iconic landmark with breathtaking views
Clifford's Tower stands as York's most iconic landmark and the largest surviving part of York Castle. This magnificent medieval fortress majestically crowns its motte, offering visitors a captivating journey through over 900 years of dramatic history.
The tower is famous for its unique quatrefoil design and tragic past, but today it's equally renowned for the spectacular views it provides. A climb of approximately 55 steps takes you to the new timber roof deck, where breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views over historic York await. From this vantage point, you'll see the majestic York Minster, medieval city walls, and the charming streets of the old town spreading out below. The new roof platform, opened in 2022, provides access to areas of the tower that have been off-limits for centuries, creating an unprecedented visitor experience.
Inside, immersive storytelling brings the tower's turbulent history to life through fictional historic characters who recount tales from the Harrying of the North to the tragic anti-Jewish pogrom of 1190, and the devastating fire of 1684. Modern soundscapes and interactive elements make this history tangible and emotionally engaging. Throughout the centuries, the tower served as a royal fortress, prison, and administrative centre. English Heritage has lovingly restored this monument, installing new wooden staircases and walkways that ensure safe and comfortable access for all visitors. At the base of the motte, you'll find a welcome area with a tactile map of the castle and city, plus three resting places that make the steep climb more manageable. Clifford's Tower history is intrinsically woven into the fabric of York and England's past – visiting here is like taking a journey through the most dramatic moments of English history.
A monument with a turbulent past
The history of Clifford's Tower is marked by dramatic events that changed England forever. The tower was the site of one of the darkest chapters in English history. In 1190, approximately 150 Jews sought refuge in the wooden castle and tragically lost their lives. Today, a memorial plaque at the base of the tower commemorates these events. The stone tower you see today was built in the 13th century under Henry III and survived centuries of use as a royal fortress, prison, and administrative centre before being severely damaged by a mysterious explosion in 1684.
Visitor information
Opening times: Daily 10:00 AM-6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM)
Tower St, York YO1 9SA, United Kingdom
Good to know
The climb to the tower involves steep steps – sturdy shoes are recommended
No advance booking required – your City Pass is your entry ticket
The new roof platform offers accessible access with new staircases and walkways
We recommend visiting later in the afternoon for fewer crowds
