Following major improvements, Clifford’s Tower in York is set to reopen to the public on Saturday 2 April, it was revealed today.
It follows a £5 million investment in the tower, and will allow visitors to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the York skyline from a new roof deck, constructed in a way which also helps to protect the tower’s historic stonework.
The deck will be accessed by new internal walkways and historic stairwells which provide access for the first time to features on the first floor.
This will help visitors better understand the history and historical layout of the tower.
New visitor information will also help place the tower in the context of the historical landscape of York, as well as shedding light on the tower’s long and turbulent history.
This includes the castle’s role as the site of the tragic 1190 massacre and suicide of York’s Jewish community – one of the worst anti-Semitic events in English history.
The role of the castle as both a medieval royal stronghold and a garrison during the Civil War is also explored.
Through sound experiences, visitors will hear an historic soundscape and stories from key moments in the history of the site, told by local actors.
Open the doors
Andrea Selley, territory director at English Heritage, said: “Many people in York will have seen the tower covered in scaffolding over the past few months and we’re now delighted to be able to take this down and open the doors to the public.
“The team have worked hard through the pandemic and sometimes appalling weather conditions and we’re pleased with what they’ve achieved.
“We set out to deliver a project that the people of York would be proud of, and would feel does justice to the significance of this important monument; we can’t wait to welcome people back and to see what they think.”.
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