Tickets to the Clifford's Tower

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Most recommended in York, Clifford's Tower
York: Ghost Tales & Cocoa Trails Audio Tour
York: Ghost Tales & Cocoa Trails Audio Tour

Take a walk through the old mysterious city of York and learn its secrets! On this tour, you will listen to fascinating stories and spooky tales about outstanding historical characters and get to know York's chocolate traditions. You'll take a walk through the tranquil Museum Gardens and marvel at the remains of the ancient Roman walls. Then you'll discover the King's Manor which is now a part of the University of York. There you will find a coat of arms that dates back to the time of Charles I and try to decipher its message. Your journey will continue near the York Minster, the only cathedral that is so precious it has its own police force, and it is also one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe. Then the tour will lead you to Clifford's Tower, a former prison and a must-see sight of York. There you will enjoy gorgeous panoramic views from the top of the hill and listen to horrific stories about events that took place there. Get to know one of the most haunted cities in Europe and see its beauty with this tour!

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About Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Opening times may change, so it is best to check the official website for up-to-date information before the visit.

It's preferable to visit Clifford's Tower during the warmer seasons, like spring or early autumn, so you won't feel too cold on the way to the tower and its roof. Additionally, it is better to explore the building on weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds.

As the most significant remaining building of the ancient York Castle, Clifford's Tower is a window into the tumultuous and turbulent history of this magnificent building. Here's what you can do at Clifford's Tower:

  • Enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of York. Thanks to its position at the top of the hill, Clifford's Tower offers a commanding view of the city around it.
  • Explore the inner workings of the tower. After the 2022 renovation, you can see more of Clifford's Tower than before. Now you can look at Henry III's personal chapel and examine a one-of-a-kind medieval toilet (also built for Henry III).
  • Listen to the history of York Castle. You can listen to fascinating stories like:
    • The 1069 uprising against the Normans
    • The restoration effort during the reign of Richard III
    • A catastrophic explosion that severely damaged the castle in the 17th century.

Additionally, you can listen to the sounds of the castle's past, like the servants' gossip, a busy kitchen, or the destruction of the Norman keep.

Clifford's Tower is close to York city center, so getting to it isn't an issue. There is a large car park at the bottom of the hill, but it's usually very busy. You can also reach the tower via the Tower Street and Clifford Street bus stops.

FAQ about Clifford's Tower

Clifford's Tower is close to the very center of York, so there are plenty of exciting locations to explore. Here are just some of them:

  • York Castle Museum
  • JORVIK Viking Centre
  • The York Dungeon
  • Shambles
  • York Crown Court

You can book tickets online in advance or buy them on-site. Buying tickets online is cheaper. 

  • Adult tickets: £8.10 (£9.00 with donation)
  • Child tickets (5-17 years): £5.40 (£5.70 with donation)
  • Concession tickets (students and seniors): £7.30 (£8.10 with donation)

You can also get family tickets and the Overseas Visitor Pass. Additionally, you can become an English Heritage member and visit the tower for free.

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