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A note from the Warden

An introduction from Mrs. Annie Burnside, Hall Warden.

A very warm welcome to Clifton Hill House!

Clifton Hill House is one of the nine Halls of Residence of the University of Bristol. Opened in 1909 for 15 young ladies, 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 35 are second, third, fourth and fifth years students known as “Returners”. Clifton Hill House is the only catering Hall in the Clifton area; it is within easy walking distance from 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 during the year. The JCR organises many events such as Halloween and Valentine’s Dinners, the unforgettable Snow Ball at Xmas, the Summer Garden Party, Barn Dances, Quizzes, Karaokes, Pub Nights and more. Formal Meals are held at regular intervals and students are also frequently invited to join the Warden, Tutors 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 the politician Lord Robert Armstrong, Brian Kay, the Radio 3 presenter, the Nobel Prize winner Professor Rotblat, Kate Adie, the BBC Chief News correspondent and Peter Lord of “Chicken Run” fame, the politician Ann Widdecombe, the world famous balloonist Don Cameron and Alastair Fothergill, the producer of the 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 Clifton Hill House Music Group. Each year the Hall always 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 hall life. I feel privileged to lead an outstanding team of Senior Common Room and Staff who contribute to the smooth running of the Hall.

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

Annie Burnside, Hall Warden