Please login or click here to join.
Forgot Password? Click Here to reset pasword
Apart from York City's lovely old Minster church, there is little in the town to rival the sheer drama of Clifford's Tower in its lofty hilltop setting, casting from its ramparts unrivalled views over York.
Following William the Conqueror's invasion of England, he sought to overthrow the North, so he built a castle here in 1086. This was later burned by rebel forces and a new wooden fortress was built. It is this that was to witness one of the most heinous crimes in York's proud history and a Memorial Tablet on Clifford's Tower commemorates this most horrific event of the year 1190.
A huge, out of control mob rioted against York's Jewish citizens, of these 150 managed to seek sanctuary inside the castle, but the relentless mob, ever thirsty to spill more blood turned towards the castle. Many of the Jews committed suicide rather than be captured, but the remainder died when the mob set fire to the building. Those unfortunates who did try to escape were slaughtered.
In the 13th century a new building was put up, this later blew down and in 1270 Henry III ordered a stone castle to be built. It was here that Roger de Clifford was executed in 1322 for treason against Edward II. In the barbaric manner of the times, he was hung in chains from the walls of the tower. Thus, ever since the tower has been styled "Clifford's Tower".
It was not until the 17th century that the tower lost its roof through fire and today it still remains open to the elements with walks around the 13th century walls.
Apart from the tower there is a Female Prison, Debtors Prison and Assize Court to be seen, these were additions of the 17th century and together with the dungeons give the lower part of the tower a very eyrie feel. The climb to the top is via around 100 steps, but once mastered, however breathless, the view is a rich reward.
a Historic City in the county of North Yorkshire
(0.4 miles, 0.7 km)One of the most historic cities in Britain with overs 2000 years of history.....
in the county of North Yorkshire
(9.0 miles, 14.5 km, direction SW)Tadcaster has been at the centre of the Brewing industry since the 18th century, and today breweries remain conspicuous on its landscape...
a Historic Market Town in the county of North Yorkshire
(16.5 miles, 26.5 km, direction W)This attractive market town lies in the high reaches of Yorkshire above Harrogate. It is overlooked by the peaceful waters of the River Nidd which is spanned by a magnificent.....
in the county of East Riding of Yorkshire
(18.5 miles, 29.8 km, direction S)This small town appears to be almost surrounded by water, it developed along the banks of the River Aire and to the east is the Ouse...
in the county of North Yorkshire
(19.1 miles, 30.7 km, direction W)One of the chief town's in Yorkshire's old West Riding, Harrogate acheived early fame as a Spa resort...
All towns in North Yorkshire
This fascinating museum offers a lively and interesting day out for every member of the family. The museum is housed in an.....
This magnificent timber-frame building is perhaps the most notable legacy to come out of the Middle Ages. It was built in York.....
Here in a very modern building at the heart of one of the countries most beautiful and historic cities is an award-winning museum.....
They say first impressions count and they do, for looking at the beautiful facade of Fairfax House, designed by John Carr, noted.....
The remains of the Legionary bathhouse of the fortress of Eboracum. This museum is accessed through the Roman Bath pub, situated.....
Follow PicturesOfEngland.com on social media and help share the beauty of England....
