Clifford's Tower sits on a steep artificial mound above the city centre, the most dramatic surviving element of the medieval royal castle complex. The current shell keep dates from the 13th century and was built by Henry III to replace the wooden tower lost in 1190. The name comes from Roger de Clifford, a nobleman hanged here in 1322 — his body was left on display in chains as a warning. The views from the top of the mound reach across the city to the Minster and the walls.
The tower is maintained by English Heritage and there is an admission charge. The interior is largely empty — this was always primarily a defensive lookout and royal stronghold rather than a comfortable residence — but the setting is striking and the context provided by the on-site interpretation is good. The Jewish memorial plaque at the base of the mound marks one of the worst episodes of antisemitic violence in medieval English history. Each year on the anniversary, a service of remembrance is held at the site.