Clifford's Tower, York

Clifford's Tower, York (must see)

Clifford's Tower in York is a historical site steeped in a rich and tumultuous past. It stands as the largest surviving part of York Castle, which was once northern England's most formidable medieval royal fortress. The tower has recently been enhanced with a significant update in 2022, which includes a dramatic roof deck, internal walkways, and a soundscape interpretation that narrates the tower's compelling history like never before. These new features make its history and interior more accessible, providing a vivid account of its dramatic and sometimes tragic events.

Originally constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068-69, Clifford's Tower was built to assert control over the rebellious north. The tower has endured multiple devastations, having been burned down twice before being reconstructed by Henry III in the 13th century. It is named after a particularly dark event where Roger de Clifford was executed for treason against Edward II and displayed on the tower walls.

Today, the tower's stone structure, dating from the late 13th century, invites visitors to explore its multifaceted history. The site is not only significant for its military and royal associations but also as a tragic site of the 1190 massacre of about 150 Jews who sought refuge there. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to walk the open-air wall that guards once patrolled, offering unparalleled views of York, including the Old Minister, the North York Moors, and other remnants of York Castle.

From this vantage point, one can also view the "Eye of York"鈥攁 collection of buildings that includes the Female Prison, Debtor's Prison, and the Assize Courts, enhancing the understanding of York's historical and architectural development. The panoramic views from the tower make it an ideal starting point for anyone visiting the city.

The ground floor of Clifford's Tower, once the royal exchequer, now invites visitors to explore its history. A tactile model in the courtyard showcases its unique, possibly French-inspired four-lobed architecture. The first floor features a richly decorated chapel, formerly private apartments. Historically, the tower has served as a prison and royal mint, and it was here that the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin was identified, leading to his execution in 1739.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in York. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Clifford's Tower
Sight Location: York, England (See walking tours in York)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in York, England

Create Your Own Walk in York

Creating your own self-guided walk in York is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

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York City Wall Tour

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The maze of historic streets 鈥� too narrow for vehicles, and therefore solely pedestrian 鈥� are packed with attractions fairly close to one... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles

York Introduction Walking Tour

Established by the ancient Romans in 71 AD, the city of York breathes history. It first appeared as a walled settlement when the Ninth Legion of Rome conquered the local tribe known as the Brigantes. The town became the capital of the Roman province of Britannia Inferior, and later of the kingdoms of Deira, Northumbria and J贸rv铆k, emerging as a major river port and part of the extensive trading... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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