Clifton

Established in 1872, Clifton stands as a testament to enduring tradition and excellence in rugby. Founded at The Kings Arms in Bristol, we are recognized as the oldest rugby club in Bristol and the 33rd oldest in the United Kingdom. Over our storied history, we have nurtured 38 international players, including James Arthur Bush and John David Currie, who have brought honor to our club on global stages. Our legacy is meticulously documented in a book by Patrick Casey and Richard Hale, published in 2009, which captures the essence of our journey. The club has maintained a close connection to its origins, even as the historic Kings Arms pub changed names multiple times before reverting to its original title.

We take pride in our contributions to rugby history, hosting players who later became England captains and the first captain of Wales. Our website serves as the most comprehensive archive of the club's identity, detailing the lives and achievements of our players. For over a century and a half, we have remained a cornerstone of Bristol's sporting heritage, fostering community engagement through rugby and historical preservation.