[a][citation needed][dubious – discuss] It is located to the south of Clifford's Tower, within the former castle bailey.

It is a three-storey building with a central range and clock turret flanked by projecting wings built with Tadcaster limestone and brick walls, and a lead and slate roof.

[4] The castle area became the regular place of executions in York in the early 1800s, replacing the Tyburn on the Knavesmire.

[3] The new gallows were completed on 8 March 1801 at a cost of £10 and 15 shillings and were first used for the execution of a cattle thief, Samuel Lundy, on 11 April 1801.

[5] Condemned criminals were hanged in this space, known as 'the Drop', between the Assize Courts and the bailey wall (immediately adjacent to the Debtor's Prison) until 1868.