Clifford's Tower is the ruined keep of York Castle, an unusual four-lobed (quatrefoil) stone tower built by Henry III in the 13th century atop a steep earthen mound (motte) in the heart of York. It is the site of the 1190 massacre of York's Jewish community, one of the worst antisemitic atrocities of medieval England, and its interior was later gutted by a gunpowder explosion in 1684. Following a GBP 5 million conservation project, English Heritage reopened the tower in 2022 with a new free-standing timber structure inside - staircases, aerial walkways and a roof deck installed in what had been a hollow shell. Visitors can now climb to the top for 360-degree panoramic views over York Minster and the city, making it both a place of remembrance and a spectacular viewpoint.
360-degree panorama over York Minster and the city from the new rooftop viewing deck
The rare quatrefoil (four-lobed) ground plan of the stone keep - unusual among English castles
The 2022 timber staircases and aerial walkways that opened up interior rooms sealed since the 1684 fire
The memorial plaque at the tower's foot (installed 1978) and the daffodils planted on the mound in memory of the 1190 massacre
The steep motte itself and the wider York Castle site, linked to the nearby York Castle Museum and city walls
Good to know
RulesEntry is by timed ticket with limited capacity, so pre-booking online via the official English Heritage website is advisable at busy times and often cheaper. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.
SafetyYou must climb a steep outdoor stone staircase to reach the entrance, and the internal stairs and walkways are steep with no lift. Wear grippy footwear and use the handrails. The rooftop deck is fully exposed and can be very windy.
SeasonThe roof deck is open to the sky, so it is exposed to rain, wind and cold. Bring a windproof layer and rain gear even in summer. Around mid-March, daffodils - the symbol of remembrance for the massacre - bloom on the mound.
MannersThis is not just a viewpoint but a memorial to the 1190 massacre of York's Jewish community. Please be quiet and respectful around the plaque and daffodils.
RulesArriving by public transport (train or bus) or bicycle earns 20% off admission when you show your ticket (Good Journey scheme), so keep your ticket. If visiting several heritage sites, an English Heritage membership may be worth considering.
CautionBuy tickets only from the official English Heritage site or the on-site box office, and beware third-party resellers charging inflated prices. Stay alert to pickpockets in the crowds around city-centre sights such as the Shambles.
Practical info
The tower stands on Tower Street in the city centre, about a 15-minute walk from York railway station (via Station Road and Lendal Bridge) or a few minutes on bus 3 or 4 from outside the station. It is run by English Heritage and free for members, but seasonal opening hours and prices vary, so check the official website for the latest information before you go.
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