A HISTORY graduate from Huddersfield has found her ultimate "room at the top".
And Sarah Robinson is set to help visitors explore a fascinating new slice of Yorkshire history.
She has unlocked a previously-hidden corner of Clifford's Tower, a landmark building in York.
Sarah, originally from Lepton, has landed a permanent role on the English Heritage custodial team at the 13th century tower.
One of her first jobs was to unbolt the door to the medieval chapel, which has been off-limits to the public for many decades.
The reopening follows months of work and is part of a revamp at the site to provide visitors with a more vivid insight into the fortress's turbulent past.
In its heyday the chapel was also used as a royal apartment and provided regal accommodation for Queen Isabella of France, the notorious "She Wolf" who engineered the murder of her husband, King Edward II.
Four colourful storyboards have been installed around the tower, describing its construction during the reign of King Henry III and its role in wars against the Scots.
"Exploring nooks and crannies in old castles is a national pastime, so we're delighted the chapel is now open to visitors," said Sarah, who graduated from Huddersfield University last year, where she specialised in medieval history.
"Some of the tower's best surviving medieval architecture - such as decorative arcading along the walls - can be found inside."
She added: "Together with the new interpretation, it's a way of unlocking history and providing a better idea of what life was like here."
The chapel was built above the entrance to the tower and at various times was used for prayer, as a secure room to store treasures and as a royal guest room.
But sleepy nobles would have needed earplugs to get a good night's sleep, as the chains which operated the portcullis went straight through the roof.
The upgrade has also included the renewal of a large model of the old York Castle - of which the tower is the only surviving part - complete with Braille signs.
* The Romans used the site as a cemetery
* In 1068, William the Conqueror built a wooden motte and bailey castle on the present site of Clifford's Tower, to strengthen his grip on the North.
* A shameful episode happened in 1190. The city's Jewish community was in the wooden tower - which was then burned down by a mob, killing those inside
* The prominent tower is now the only remaining part of the castle, which was rebuilt in stone in the 13th century.
* Clifford's Tower is open daily, 10am to 4pm. Entry is £2.50 for adults, £1.90 for concessions and £1.30 for a child. Under-fives go in free. A family ticket is £6.30.
