The Red Tower: York’s Historic Brick Watchtower and Community Hub
Explore York’s only brick medieval watchtower, now a vibrant community hub blending history, culture, and social spirit.
The Red Tower, built in 1490, is a unique red brick watchtower forming part of York’s medieval city walls. Recently restored, it now serves as a vibrant community space hosting a café, events, and social activities. Located on Foss Islands Road, it offers visitors a glimpse into York’s defensive past alongside modern communal engagement.
A brief summary to Red Tower
- Foss Islands Rd, York, YO1 9UJ, GB
- +447396038970
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the Red Tower’s website or local listings for current opening hours and special events.
- Combine your visit with a walk along York’s city walls for panoramic views and historical insights.
- Visit the pay-as-you-feel café inside for refreshments and to support local community initiatives.
- Use the information boards and QR codes on site to deepen your understanding of the tower’s history.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the city walls walk, as some sections have uneven surfaces and stairs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Number 12 or 13 bus from York city center towards Tang Hall or Osbaldwick. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Alight near Foss Islands Road and walk about 5 minutes to the Red Tower. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. Single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Train and Walk
From York Railway Station, it is a 30-minute walk to the Red Tower along city streets and the city walls. The route offers scenic views but includes some uneven surfaces and stairs, so suitable footwear is recommended. No additional cost beyond train fare.
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Taxi
A taxi from York city center to the Red Tower typically takes 10 minutes, depending on traffic. This option provides door-to-door convenience but is more expensive, usually costing £7-£12 GBP.
Red Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Red Tower
A Singular Brick Sentinel on York’s Medieval Walls
Constructed in 1490, the Red Tower stands out as the only brick-built tower along York’s ancient city walls, a striking contrast to the predominantly stone fortifications. Originally designed as a watchtower to bolster the city’s defenses, it has witnessed centuries of history, including damage during the 1644 siege of York and subsequent repairs. Its distinctive red brickwork not only gives the tower its name but also marks an architectural rarity within the city’s historic fortifications.Transformation into a Community Beacon
After extensive restoration, completed as recently as 2023, the Red Tower has been revitalized as a community interest company hub. The ground floor houses a welcoming pay-as-you-feel café offering hot and cold drinks, cakes, and a supportive social space. Upstairs, the tower features a versatile room accommodating local charities, community groups, and small events such as craft workshops and meetings. This adaptive reuse reflects a commitment to preserving heritage while fostering social inclusion and creativity.Historical Layers and Conservation Efforts
The tower’s roof was carefully re-roofed with a combination of original and hand-made replacement tiles, ensuring the building’s structural integrity and historical authenticity. Conservation work has preserved the eighteenth and nineteenth-century elements, while modern insulation enhances its usability. Information boards and QR codes around the site provide visitors with rich historical context, including the tower’s role in York’s defenses and its evolution through the centuries.Exploring the Surrounding City Walls
The Red Tower is a key point along York’s city walls walk, offering panoramic views of the cityscape including landmarks like York Minster and The Shambles. The walls themselves are free to access daily from early morning until dusk, providing an immersive medieval experience. The tower’s location on Foss Islands Road marks the transition between the Layerthorpe and Walmgate sections of the walls, making it a strategic and scenic stop for walkers.Community Spirit and Social Impact
Beyond its historical significance, the Red Tower serves as a vital community resource. It operates a food surplus collection and pay-as-you-feel food shop, supporting local residents in need. Run entirely by volunteers, the tower embodies a spirit of generosity and local engagement, making it much more than a historic monument—it is a living, breathing part of York’s social fabric.Visitor Experience and Practical Features
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful grassed areas around the tower, ideal for outdoor seating during events. The interior spaces are intimate, with capacity for about 20 people theatre-style or 12 in conference setup. Facilities include a small kitchen and restrooms, enhancing comfort for community activities and private hires. While the tower is not always open for interior tours, its exterior and the adjacent walls remain accessible year-round.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Community Engagement
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
