CLIFTON HILL HOUSE

A note from the warden

A very warm welcome to Clifton Hill House!

Clifton Hill House is one of nine halls of residence of the University of Bristol. Opened in 1909, it was the very first university hall of residence in the south-west of England.  We now welcome approximately 230 students each year, of whom around 30 are second and third year students known as 'returners'.  Clifton Hill House is the only catered hall in the Clifton area and is within easy walking distance to the academic departments… and from cinemas and nightclubs!

Although, as for any community there are rules to be observed, the pattern of life is friendly and informal.  We do, however, expect our fun-loving students to have consideration for other members of Hall who may appreciate a quieter atmosphere!

The Hall is strictly non-smoking, even in the grounds, bar, television room, and Junior Common Room.

Clifton Hill House has students from many different cultures and backgrounds, as well as from different university faculties.  The hall is run with a community spirit which is strengthened by the many activities going on throughout the year.  The JCR organises many events such as Halloween and Valentine’s dinners, the unforgettable Snow Ball at Christmas, the Summer Garden Party, barn dances, quizzes, karaokes, pub nights, and more.  Formal meals are held at regular intervals and students are frequently invited to join the warden, senior residents and guests at high table.  The annual Clement Wheeler-Bennett Convivium held in memory of Clement, a former Clifton Hill House resident who died of cancer in 1986, is one of the highlights of the year, when a famous guest is invited to address students and academics before a wine-tasting session.  Previous speakers have included Kate Adie, the BBC news correspondent, Peter Lord of Aardman Animations, the politician Ann Widdecombe, Don Cameron of Cameron Balloons, and Alastair Fothergill, the producer of the BBC series Planet Earth.  There is also a strong musical and amateur dramatics tradition at Clifton Hill House, and we always encourage new productions.  Every year we enjoy many musicals and concerts, some for designated charities and all performed by Clifton Hill House students and organised by the JCR.  Each year the hall develops into a vibrant, creative, lively and diverse community.

The pastoral care given to our students is a key feature in the life of the Hall.  Members of the Senior Common Room as well as all the members of staff at Clifton Hill House are here to assist and help with problems and anxieties often linked with starting a university career.

As Warden I am responsible for all aspects of the CHH students' hall life.  I feel privileged to lead an outstanding team of Senior Common Room and work alongside all members of staff who contribute to the smooth running of the Hall.

Should you come to Clifton Hill House, we hope you will have a thoroughly enjoyable time with us and might consider staying on for another year.

Tom Richardson, Warden