If you can climb the 55 steep steps to get to the entrance of Clifford's Tower, then you will be rewarded with the most spectacular view of the beautiful, historical city of York and provided with a fascinating insight into York's history.
The Tower is on a high mound of earth, in Tower Street York, opposite the York Castle Museum and within a short walk from the Coppergate Shopping centre York. .
Entrance to Clifford's Tower is £4.20 concessions £3.80. As well as the amazing views, there is a wealth of information on its turbulent history, as well as a gift shop. There is a picnic area on the grassy slopes ,but otherwise no refreshment area.
The name Clifford's Tower has gruesome origins. The tower got its name after Roger de Clifford was executed there for treason against Edward ll.
Cliffords Tower is all that remains today of York Castle, built to provide defence to York. The river Ouse and River Foss which can be clearly seen from the tower also provided defence
Originally built by William the Conqueror, it was burnt down twice and rebuilt by Henry lll in the 13th century.
There is a model within the museum which shows how the site looked when it was first built. as well as illustrations of its past – its served as a Royal Mint, a seat of government and a prison.
The walking surfaces within the Tower are uneven, there is no wheelchair access. Disabled people can take a companion with them free of charge to enable them to get more out of the visit. There are handrails throughout the site as well as seating. There are no W. C. facilities on site, the nearest W.C. being in Coppergate shopping centre.