Clifford's Tower York
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Clifford's Tower York

4.3
·5k reviews·, United Kingdom

A 13th-century castle keep offering breathtaking panoramic views of York and a deep dive into its rich history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Best for views & photos

CrowdMedium
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Clifford's Tower York

Clifford's Tower York

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Best for views & photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 13th-century castle keep offering breathtaking panoramic views of York and a deep dive into its rich history.

4.3
(5k reviews)

"The new roof deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of York, making it a fantastic spot for photography."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Ahead for Discount

Get ~15% off by booking tickets online at least one day prior.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Steep and uneven steps inside; good footwear is essential for the climb.

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.3 · 5,711 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Viewing Terrace

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of York and its surroundings from the top.

New Internal Walkways

New Internal Walkways

Inside the Tower

Explore previously inaccessible levels, including the royal chapel and king's latrine.

Interactive Storytelling

Interactive Storytelling

Throughout the Tower

Engaging exhibits and 'whispering' seats bring the tower's long and tragic history to life.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets Online for Savings

Save about 15% by purchasing your Clifford's Tower tickets online at least a day in advance. This avoids potential queues and offers a more budget-friendly experience for this historic gem.

Prepare for the Climb

Be ready for a steep ascent with numerous steps to reach the tower's viewing terrace. While there are resting spots, comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the original, uneven interior steps.

Best Times

When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Best for views & photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Clifford's Tower, York, UK The Normans first made the original mound of Clifford's Tower. In 1068 a timber structure was created by William the Conqueror.  This stood for just over 100 years until being burned down in 1190 in one of York’s most terrible moments, when 150 Jews were massacred. The castle was later built in stone. #england #york #History #jewish #jewishhistory #instatravel #natgeotr...
@littlecornersofeurope
9K likes • 108.6K views

🎟️ Book Ahead for Discount

Get ~15% off by booking tickets online at least one day prior. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Steep and uneven steps inside; good footwear is essential for the climb. Reddit

What goes up must go down #york #cliffordstower #silly #mistakeshappen #fyp
@markrooney92
3.4K likes • 257.1K views
Clifford's Tower in York used to be surrounded by water 💧 #YorkQuests #york #yorkshire #visityork #quest #visityorkshire #yorkengland #yorkuk #history #yorkhistory
yorkquests
26 likes • 1.7K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The new roof deck offers unparalleled 360-degree views for stunning photography. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Nearby Sites

Great to pair with York Castle Museum and Fairfax House for a full day. Reddit

York, is there a city quite like you? I end my tour at Clifford's Tower because just look at it. LOOK AT IT. #ghostwalk #ghosttour #weird #york #tiktok #tiktokghostguy #drone #mavic3pro #citywalls #visityork #castlewalls #cliffordstower
doriandeathly
127 likes • 858 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Ahead for Discount

Get ~15% off by booking tickets online at least one day prior. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Steep and uneven steps inside; good footwear is essential for the climb. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The new roof deck offers unparalleled 360-degree views for stunning photography. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Nearby Sites

Great to pair with York Castle Museum and Fairfax House for a full day. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Clifford's Tower for its stunning panoramic views of York and the fascinating historical insights provided by its recent renovations, including new walkways and interactive exhibits. While the steep climb and lack of amenities like toilets are noted drawbacks, the overall experience is considered well worth the effort for its historical significance and breathtaking vistas.

"Really worth a visit, especially on a nice day with ... the viewing terrace at the top. One star taken only as I thought it would be great to be able to have some kids activities and perhaps a little shop too. Overall the views were worth the steps up. I really enjoyed it!"

Kinga L

"Up a steep set of wooden steps but worth the effort. Though you will have further steps to climb, some quite narrow , in order to access the roof and enjoy the fresh air and the panoramic views of York. Good informative boards. If a member of English Heritage it's a bargain.. at £11 for an adult it is not."

Duncan Parsons

"A nice, quick visit to The Clifford's Tower.

The views from the top are absolutely stunning, giving you a great look over the city and the surrounding area.
The tower itself is packed with history.

The climb up can be a little steep, but once you’re at the top, it’s totally worth it + there are resting places.

If you buy tickets online at least one day before you are visiting, you'll get a discount (around 15%)."

d alkh

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Fascinating history
New internal walkways

What People Dislike

Steep climb
No on-site facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Clifford's Tower is centrally located in York, making it easily accessible on foot from most city center accommodations. It's a short walk from the train station and other major attractions. Reddit

While there's no dedicated parking at the tower itself, several public car parks are within walking distance, such as the Fossgate Car Park or the Coppergate Shopping Centre Car Park. Reddit

Yes, the York train station is a short walk away, and numerous bus routes stop in the city center, providing easy access to the tower. Reddit

Unfortunately, due to its historic nature and steep, original steps, Clifford's Tower does not have disabled access or a lift. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historic streets and discover hidden gems. Many attractions are within easy walking distance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Standard adult admission is around £11, but purchasing tickets online at least a day in advance can offer a discount of approximately 15%. English Heritage members get free entry. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially to secure the discount and avoid potential queues. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit. Reddit

Yes, tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but you will miss out on the online booking discount. Reddit

While there are informative boards, official guided tours are not always advertised. The new internal walkways and interactive exhibits provide a self-guided historical experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you can explore the new internal walkways, discover features like the royal chapel and king's latrine, and engage with interactive exhibits that tell the tower's history. Reddit

A visit can be quite quick, often around 30-60 minutes, depending on how much time you spend enjoying the views and exploring the exhibits. Reddit

No, there are no toilets or a cafe on-site. However, numerous facilities are available in the surrounding city center. Reddit

Built in the 13th century, it's a significant historical site, formerly used as a prison and royal mint, with a long and sometimes tragic past. Reddit

Children can enjoy the views and interactive elements, but the steep climb and uneven steps require supervision. Some visitors wished for more dedicated kids' activities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewing terrace at the top offers the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic shots of York. The interior also provides interesting architectural details. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the tower, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. Reddit

Sunny afternoons provide the best light for panoramic views. Sunset can also offer beautiful lighting over the city. Reddit

As with most historic sites, drone usage is likely restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations and English Heritage guidelines before flying a drone. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for interior shots and details. Reddit

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