Clifford's Tower

York, Yorkshire & Humberside

Civic Trust Awards Citation

As a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a local landmark, Clifford’s Tower historical significance and prime city centre location presented a wonderful opportunity for improvement. 

English Heritage, the site’s manager, initiated a design competition to enhance both the physical and intellectual access to the monument, while addressing the inadequacies of previous facilities. The collaborative effort of the client, design team, and contractor resulted in a project that respects the historical value of Clifford’s Tower while providing a more engaging and accessible experience for visitors. 

The interventions within the tower, designed to be fully reversible, include a Douglas Fir glulam timber structure that complements the 13th-century stone walls. This structure supports a roof deck, offering panoramic views of York and sheltering the exposed wall tops. Metal walkways and a new suspended stair provide access to previously inaccessible spaces within the tower, allowing visitors to explore features that had been hidden for centuries. The design cleverly responds to the tower’s quadrilobate plan, positioning columns in the centre of each lobe. The elevated deck replaces the narrow perimeter walkway, enhancing safety and visibility, while a central opening allows daylight and weather into the tower, preserving its identity as a ruin.

The restoration efforts involved meticulous scheduling, assessment, and repair of the historic fabric, ensuring that features such as heraldic plaques and ogee detailing were carefully conserved. New interpretation elements were incorporated to communicate the tower’s rich history, acknowledging its significance to York’s Jewish community as a site of remembrance. 

Beyond the tower walls, improvements to the public realm include enhanced access stairs, additional handrails, and an enlarged paved area at the base of the motte. The public space features curved benches, a bronze timeline, and an accessible bronze tactile map, providing an inclusive and informative experience for all visitors. 

While the works were carried out and throughout the COVID19 pandemic, local schools actively participated in illustrating the tower’s story on protective hoardings. Online updates and videos kept the community informed, while local residents contributed by auditioning to record scripts that bring to life the tower’s former inhabitants. 

Since its reopening in April 2022, Clifford’s Tower has seen a remarkable 40% increase in visitor numbers, with the intervention being widely praised. Positive feedback focuses on the extensive roof, breathtaking views, and the innovative use of wood and metal construction.

Judges’ Comments: “Clifford’s Tower project not only preserves history but elevates the visitor experience, making it a cherished landmark for both locals and tourists alike.”