Discover the Historic Red Tower of York
Explore the historic Red Tower in York, a captivating landmark that showcases the city's rich medieval heritage and stunning architecture.
The Red Tower, a stunning historical site in York, invites tourists to explore its rich heritage and captivating architecture. This ancient structure serves as a reminder of York’s storied past and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
A brief summary to Red Tower
- Foss Islands Rd, York, YO1 9UJ, GB
- +447396038970
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Check for any local guided tours that may provide deeper insights into the tower's history.
- Bring a camera; the views from the tower are perfect for photography.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the city walls for a comprehensive historical experience.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at York Minster, the iconic cathedral in the center of York. From the main entrance, head south on Minster Yard. At the end of the street, turn left onto Deangate. Continue straight until you reach the junction with Duncombe Place. Cross over onto the other side of the street and walk along Duncombe Place until you reach the traffic lights. Here, take a right onto St. Leonard's Place and continue straight until you reach the end of the road, where it meets the A1036 (Blossom Street). Cross the road and continue straight onto the footpath beside the road. Follow the A1036 until you reach the roundabout, where you will see a sign for Foss Islands Road. Take the first exit onto Foss Islands Road. Continue walking on Foss Islands Road for about 15 minutes, and you will find the Red Tower on your right, just before you reach the junction with Layerthorpe.
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Bus
From the city center, head to the nearest bus stop on Piccadilly. Look for the buses heading towards the Foss Islands area. You can catch the number 6 or number 7 bus. Board the bus and stay on until you reach the stop for Foss Islands Road. After getting off, you will need to walk for about 5 minutes along Foss Islands Road. The Red Tower will be on your left side, just before the junction with Layerthorpe.
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Cycling
If you're renting a bike, start from the city center and head east towards the River Foss. Follow the cycle path along the river until you reach the Foss Islands Road bridge. Cross the bridge and continue straight onto Foss Islands Road. Follow the road for about 10 minutes, and you'll see the Red Tower on your right, just before the junction with Layerthorpe.
Discover more about Red Tower
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walmgate Bar
0.3 km
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
The Stonebow
0.4 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
St Crux
0.5 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.6 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.6 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Parliament St
0.6 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover York's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Roman Bath
0.7 km
Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
Sundial Column
0.7 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.8 km
Discover the haunted tales of York on The Bloody Tour, where history and ghostly legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.8 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.8 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.8 km
Discover the stunning Skeldergate Bridge in York, where modern design meets historic charm, offering breathtaking views of the River Ouse and city skyline.
The Original Ghost Walk of York
0.8 km
Discover York's haunted past with The Original Ghost Walk, a captivating evening tour that unveils chilling tales and captivating history.
Ouse Bridge
0.8 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Walmgate
0.3 km
Explore Walmgate, York’s historic street where medieval defenses meet centuries of industrial heritage and urban life.
Brew York
0.3 km
York’s flagship craft brewery with a vibrant beer hall, riverside garden, and immersive brewery tours in the heart of the city.
St Denys's Church, York
0.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of St Denys's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
The Rose & Crown
0.3 km
Traditional charm and hearty British fare just steps from York’s historic centre, with cozy rooms and a welcoming pub atmosphere.
The Black Swan
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of The Black Swan, a traditional pub in York offering local ales and authentic British cuisine.
Peasholme Grn
0.4 km
Historic Peasholme Green in York blends medieval market heritage, iconic pubs, and vibrant cultural life in a unique urban setting.
St Cuthbert's House of Prayer
0.4 km
Historic 15th-century Gothic church in York, now The Well Prayer House, blending medieval heritage with modern spiritual reflection.
York
0.4 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
St Anthonys Garden
0.4 km
Discover a serene, historic garden oasis in York blending medieval heritage, sensory planting, and tranquil green space beneath ancient city walls.
Dick Turpins grave
0.5 km
Discover the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin’s final resting place in York’s historic St George’s Churchyard, steeped in legend and 18th-century intrigue.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
0.5 km
Uncover 2,000 years of York’s history through hands-on archaeological adventures in a historic church setting, perfect for young explorers.
St Lawrence Parish Church, York
0.5 km
Discover York’s historic St Lawrence Parish Church, a serene blend of medieval roots and Victorian architectural grandeur on Lawrence Street.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.5 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Fishergate Bar
0.5 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
York Barbican
0.5 km
York's premier indoor entertainment venue hosting world-class concerts, comedy, sports, and conferences.
Essential places to dine
Tabanco By Ambiente
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.3 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Arras
0.4 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
The Blue Barbakan
0.4 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
Cosy Club
0.5 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Pavement Vaults
0.6 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Rustique Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Ate O'Clock
0.6 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Bab Tooma York
0.6 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Valhalla York
0.6 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Wine Stories
0.7 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Expressions
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.5 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Fenwick York
0.5 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.6 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Gift Gallery
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.6 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.6 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.6 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Barghest
0.6 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.6 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
The Medieval Scribe
0.7 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Pandora
0.7 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.7 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Cello by Collectables
0.7 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fossgate Social
0.5 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hop York
0.5 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Blue Bell
0.5 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
0.5 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Three Tuns
0.6 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
0.6 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
Pivní York
0.6 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Royal Oak
0.7 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Vudu Lounge
0.7 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.7 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Victor J's
0.7 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Plonkers
0.7 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.7 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Dyls
0.7 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.8 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.5 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Kuda
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.8 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
1.0 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Popworld York
1.0 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Salvation
1.0 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.1 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.1 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.7 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.5 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
35.1 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.4 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.4 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.5 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.6 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
