Clifton Rugby Club

Clifton Rugby Club is Bristol’s oldest rugby club — and one of the oldest in the world. Founded on 27 September 1872 at the King’s Arms on Blackboy Hill in Clifton, the club’s origins are woven into the very fabric of the city’s sporting history. Remarkably, the pub where it all began still stands today.

Clifton proudly holds a distinguished place in rugby heritage as the 32nd oldest club in the United Kingdom, the 21st oldest in England, the 2nd oldest in the South West, and the oldest in Bristol.

The team is led by former Bristol player Director of Rugby Matt Salter, who brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for sustained success. Supporting him is a highly skilled coaching team, including Head Coach Luke Cozens, Forwards Coaches Ian Grieves and Paul Fincken, and Defence Coach Will Owen. Together, they combine professional expertise with a deep understanding of Clifton’s values — fostering a culture of hard work, ambition, and player development across all levels of the club.

After their historical promotion winning season in 2025, the Clifton 1st XV currently competes in National League 1, the third tier of English rugby. The club has a proud record of developing players who have gone on to achieve success at the highest levels of the game.

Among those who have worn Clifton colours are:
Mitch Eadie, Andy Uren , Auguy Slowick, James Newey, Lovejoy Chawatama, Joe Owen (Bristol Bears) and a host of internationals including Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, England & British & Irish Lions), Josh Bayliss (Bath & Scotland), Callum Braley (Benetton & Italy), Callum Sheedy (Bristol Bears & Wales), Billy Meakes (Rebels & Australia), Mako Vunipola (Saracens, England & British & Irish Lions), and Mark Regan (Bristol & England) and David Rees (Bristol & England).

Clifton’s legacy is built on tradition, passion, and a commitment to excellence — values that continue to drive the club forward today.