Clifford's Tower, York: A Monument of Power and Tragedy
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
Clifford's Tower is the largest surviving part of York Castle, perched atop a historic motte overlooking the city. Built originally by William the Conqueror in 1068 and rebuilt in stone in 1245, it has served as a royal mint, prison, and military garrison. The tower witnessed pivotal events including the 1190 massacre of York’s Jewish community and the English Civil War. Today, it offers visitors panoramic views of York and a deeply evocative journey through nearly a millennium of English history.
A brief summary to Clifford's Tower, York
- Tower St, York, YO1 9SA, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Climb the spiral staircase to the roof deck for stunning 360° views of York’s medieval skyline.
- Visit the medieval chapel inside the tower to see remnants of original decoration and architectural features.
- Allow time to reflect on the site’s history, including the tragic 1190 massacre of York’s Jewish community.
- Check opening hours in advance as they vary seasonally; English Heritage members often have free entry.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From York Train Station, approximately 1.6 km away, take bus service 3 or 4 to Stop Road, then walk about 10 minutes to Clifford's Tower. The journey typically takes 25–35 minutes. Bus tickets cost around £3–£5.
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Car
Driving to Clifford's Tower is possible via Tower Street, but parking is limited in central York. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates between £2 and £4. Expect a 10–15 minute walk from parking to the tower.
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Walking
If staying in central York, Clifford's Tower is accessible on foot via mostly flat, paved streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting location. Suitable for most visitors, including those with moderate mobility.
Clifford's Tower, York location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Clifford's Tower, York
Foundations of Norman Authority
Clifford's Tower stands on a motte constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068 as a symbol of Norman dominance over the rebellious north. Originally topped by a timber keep, the mound was raised and fortified after a devastating fire in 1190, when the Jewish community sought refuge here during one of medieval England's darkest massacres. The current stone tower, completed in 1245 under King Henry III, replaced the earlier wooden structures and was designed to reinforce royal power in the region.A Witness to Turbulent History
Throughout its existence, Clifford's Tower has played multiple roles—from royal treasury and mint to prison and military garrison. It was central during the English Civil War, housing both Royalist and Parliamentarian forces. The tower also witnessed grim episodes such as the hanging of rebel leaders and the display of executed enemies’ bodies during the Tudor period. Despite fires and threats of demolition, it has endured as a monument to York’s complex past.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The tower’s four-lobed stone design is unique, with surviving features including a medieval chapel, garderobe, and a reconstructed 14th-century kitchen area. Recent conservation efforts by English Heritage have introduced a dramatic roof deck and internal walkways, enhancing visitor access while preserving the site’s historic fabric. The tower’s elevated position offers sweeping 360° views of York’s skyline, including the Minster and the River Ouse.Commemoration and Reflection
Clifford's Tower is not only a symbol of royal authority but also a solemn reminder of religious intolerance and tragedy, particularly the 1190 massacre of York’s Jewish population. Modern interpretation and soundscapes invite visitors to engage thoughtfully with the site’s layered narratives, fostering reflection on its historical significance and the human stories it holds.Visitor Experience Today
Managed by English Heritage, Clifford's Tower welcomes visitors daily, offering an immersive exploration of its history through informative displays and guided interpretation. The climb to the rooftop is a highlight, providing unparalleled views and a tangible connection to the medieval past. The site’s compact size means visits are typically brief but richly rewarding, combining historical depth with striking vistas.Legacy and Preservation
Declared a national monument in the late 19th century, Clifford's Tower has benefited from ongoing preservation efforts to stabilize its structure and enhance public engagement. It remains a cherished heritage site that encapsulates York’s turbulent history, inviting visitors to step back in time and contemplate the enduring legacy of power, conflict, and community in northern England.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ouse Bridge
0.3 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
0.4 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 Stonebow
0.4 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.5 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
York Mansion House
0.6 km
Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
Barley Hall
0.6 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.6 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
Historic England - York Office
0.6 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Red Tower
0.6 km
Explore the historic Red Tower in York, a captivating landmark that showcases the city's rich medieval heritage and stunning architecture.
Walmgate Bar
0.6 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.
St Anthonys Garden
0.6 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Unmissable attractions to see
York Army Museum
0.1 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.1 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
Fairfax House
0.1 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
York Castle Museum
0.1 km
Step back in time at York Castle Museum, where historic prison walls and a vibrant Victorian street bring York’s rich past vividly to life.
Tower Gardens
0.1 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
St Mary's Church
0.2 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience York
0.2 km
Step inside Van Gogh’s world with immersive projections and VR at historic St Mary's Abbey, York’s captivating digital art experience.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.2 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
The York Dungeon
0.2 km
Step into York’s darkest history with live actors, chilling shows, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.2 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Coppergate Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Historic York’s vibrant open-air shopping centre blending culture, retail, and dining in the city’s ancient heart.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
0.2 km
Historic Victorian Gothic Revival bridge over the River Ouse, blending York’s past with scenic riverside charm and modern social spaces.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.3 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Essential places to dine
The Olive Tree
0.1 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Rustique Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Corner Grill House
0.2 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
The Blue Barbakan
0.3 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Pavement Vaults
0.3 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
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.
Ate O'Clock
0.3 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Cosy Club
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
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.
Wine Stories
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.4 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
Valhalla York
0.4 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fenwick York
0.1 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Expressions
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
York Souvenir's
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.3 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Greybear
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
Gift Gallery
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.4 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.4 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Cello by Collectables
0.5 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dyls
0.2 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Plonkers
0.2 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.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.2 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
The Three Tuns
0.2 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.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Social 8 Lounge
0.3 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Fossgate Social
0.3 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Golden Fleece York
0.3 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 Hop York
0.3 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
0.3 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Tank & Paddle York
0.3 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Jalou York
0.4 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Pivní York
0.4 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.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Dusk
0.5 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.2 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.5 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Popworld York
0.5 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.5 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Flares - York
0.6 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.6 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.9 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.2 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.9 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.5 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
34.8 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
34.8 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
34.9 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.0 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly