Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower is a stone structure on a raised mound in York, the only remaining building of the original York Castle. Its distinctive four-leaf clover shape was built in 1245 after damage from storms and fire, designed by experts and unlike most other English fortress towers.

The tower was built in 1068 by William the Conqueror in wood on a mound to control York. After a terrible event in 1190, it was destroyed and rebuilt several times until a fire in 1684 finally removed it from service.

The tower's name may come from Roger de Clifford, a nobleman executed here in 1322, or from the Clifford family who once guarded it as constables. The structure reflects how medieval fortifications were woven into the city's life and identity.

Visitors should prepare for steep steps leading up the mound and into the tower, where a timber platform offers views across York. Access is available during daytime hours and booking tickets online in advance is recommended to avoid long lines.

The tower's unusual four-leaf clover shape was based on the French Chateau d'Etampes and was extremely rare for English fortifications. This distinctive French architectural design makes it one of England's most interesting fortress towers for history enthusiasts.

Location: City of York

Inception: 1245

Part of: York Castle

Address: Tower Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 9SA

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cliffords-tower-york

GPS coordinates: 53.95589,-1.08001

Latest update: January 9, 2026 09:40