Barker Tower
A 14th-century river tower where medieval tolls, ferries, and York's leather trade converged.
A 14th-century riverside tower in York that once controlled medieval river traffic through a chain system stretching across the River Ouse. Originally built as a defensive structure and toll collection point, Barker Tower later served as a ferry station and even briefly as a mortuary. Today, this historic circular tower retains much of its original medieval character and now houses the Perky Peacock café, offering visitors a unique blend of history and refreshment.
A brief summary to Barker Tower
- York, York, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Perky Peacock café inside the tower for excellent cakes and coffee while exploring the building's medieval interior and learning about its history from the knowledgeable staff.
- Combine your visit with a walk along York's City Walls, which are free and open from 8 AM until dusk year-round, offering elevated views of the river and surrounding medieval architecture.
- Visit during quieter morning hours before 11 AM or after 2 PM to avoid crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience of this historic structure.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as flooding can occasionally cut off access to the tower from the surrounding Memorial Gardens and riverbank.
- Explore nearby Museum Gardens and the Multangular Tower to understand Barker Tower's place within York's broader medieval and Roman defensive systems.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On Foot from York City Centre
From York Minster or the city centre, walk toward the River Ouse and Lendal Bridge. The tower is located at the western end of Lendal Bridge, adjacent to Museum Gardens. Walking time is approximately 10–15 minutes from the city centre depending on your starting point. The route is flat and fully accessible on paved streets.
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Bus Service to York City Centre
Multiple bus services operate to York city centre from surrounding areas including Market Weighton (Bus 46), Pickering (Bus 840), and Thirsk (Bus 30 and 30X). Services run hourly Monday through Saturday. Journey times vary by origin; from Thirsk approximately 45 minutes, from Pickering approximately 60 minutes. Once in the city centre, walk to Barker Tower as described above. Single fares typically range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on distance.
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Parking and Short Walk
Several car parks operate within York city centre, including those near the railway station and city centre shopping areas. Parking costs typically range from £1.50 to £3.00 per hour or £5.00 to £8.00 for all-day parking. From any central car park, walk toward the River Ouse and Lendal Bridge; the tower is clearly visible and accessible within 10–15 minutes on foot.
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Train and Walk
York Railway Station is well-connected to major UK cities. From the station, walk northwest toward the city centre and River Ouse, approximately 15–20 minutes on flat, accessible routes. Barker Tower is located at the western end of Lendal Bridge near Museum Gardens.
Barker Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Barker Tower
Medieval Gateway and River Defence
Barker Tower stands as a remarkable survivor of York's medieval defences, built in the early 14th century on the western bank of the River Ouse. Constructed at the junction where the river met the medieval city centre, the tower was strategically positioned to work in conjunction with Lendal Tower on the opposite bank. A massive iron chain was stretched between the two towers to control river traffic entering the city, serving dual purposes: defending York against potential attacks through the river gap in the city walls, and collecting tolls from boats seeking passage. The earliest recorded keeper of this chain was Thomas Smyth in 1380, with a fee of four pennies initially charged for entry. The tower's circular design, typical of 14th-century military architecture, made it an effective defensive position while its riverside location ensured complete control over water-based commerce.Commerce, Ferries, and the Toll System
For centuries, Barker Tower functioned as a vital commercial checkpoint. Boats travelling downstream faced a particularly expensive journey, encountering tolls from St Mary's Abbey's own tower further upstream before reaching Barker Tower's chain. The tower was leased to various ferrymen—including at least one woman—who operated a passenger ferry service across the Ouse, running reliably through all seasons and weather conditions. Historical records note the ferry operated "in summer and winter, fair weather and foul, Sundays and weekdays," demonstrating the essential nature of this crossing before Lendal Bridge was constructed in 1863. The ferry's closure marked the end of an era, though the tower itself continued to serve the city in various capacities.Origins of the Name and Tanning Heritage
The tower's distinctive name derives from its proximity to Tanner Row, where York's leather workers processed hides. The tanning industry required constant access to water, making the riverside location ideal for extracting tannin from oak bark—the very material that gave the tower its name. Barkers, or tanners, would have worked extensively near the tower, processing bark for the leather trade. This connection to York's medieval crafts and industries reveals how the tower was embedded within the city's economic life, serving not merely as a defensive structure but as a landmark within a thriving commercial district.Transformation and Unusual Uses
Following the construction of Lendal Bridge in 1863, Barker Tower lost its primary function as a ferry station, yet the building proved adaptable. In the 19th century, it was repurposed as a mortuary—a curious and somewhat macabre chapter in its history. The tower was re-roofed in the 17th century and underwent alterations in 1840, with significant restoration work completed in 1970. Its original crenellations, which would have given it a castle-like appearance, were converted into small windows just below the roof, subtly altering its silhouette while preserving its essential character.Present-Day Character and Setting
Today, Barker Tower retains much of its original medieval appearance, standing as a tangible link to York's 14th-century past. The tower now houses the Perky Peacock café, a welcoming establishment serving cakes and coffee to visitors and locals alike. Its location near Lendal Bridge and close to Museum Gardens, the Multangular Tower, and York Art Gallery makes it an accessible waypoint along York's historic routes. Flooding occasionally isolates the tower from the surrounding Memorial Gardens and riverbank, a reminder of its ancient relationship with the River Ouse. The structure remains a scheduled ancient monument and Grade I listed building, protected and maintained as part of York's irreplaceable medieval heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
