Clifford's Tower Dates and Times

The large stone tower, which we now know as Clifford's Tower, was built in the 1250s during the reign of King Henry III.

The fascinating story of Clifford's Tower will finally be told thanks to a major investment by English Heritage at one of York's most important heritage sites

For much of the 14th and 15th centuries, Clifford's Tower was used as treasury, exchequer, mint, gaol and seat of royal power. During the Civil War (1642-9), Clifford's Tower was held by the royalists while the city was under siege.

In 1684 the tower was reduced to a shell after a fire. Eventually, most of the castle buildings were swept away when a new prison and court were built in the 18th and 19th centuries, leaving Clifford's Tower as the principal surviving remnant of the York Castle.

Opening Hours:

9 June to 25 Oct 2025: 10am – 6pm 26 Oct to 22 Dec: 10am – 4pm 24 Dec & 25 Dec: Closed 26 Dec to 27 March 2026: 10am – 4pm Last entry time is 1 hr prior to closing.

Location:

Tower Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9SA

Highlights

Scale the steep steps of the ancient mound to enter the castle's forebuilding..

Take in views across the city - including the majestic York Minster .

Investigate the unusual four-lobbed design of the tower through the tactile model in the courtyard..

Explore inside the tower to imagine the different chapters of its history. From its time housing the royal exchequer and treasury to when it served as a goal. .

Inclusions

Entry ticket to Clifford’s Tower

Exclusions

Guide

Transport