Welcome to Clifton Village

Clifton is believed to be the only remaining historic village within a UK city boundary. For centuries it was a “close village”, carefully managed by the Clifton family of Clifton Hall.

With roots stretching back to the Domesday Book of 1086, residents wanted a permanent marker to honour that history and define the village’s original heart.

A Visual Story in Metal and Paint

The sign was created as a storyboard in cast aluminium and paint, capturing the landmarks that shape village life:

• The 18th-century brick Dovecote on the village green
• St Mary’s Church, the spiritual heart of Clifton Village since the 12th century
• The Village Hall, once the village school and still a social hub
• Holme Pit Pond, reflecting the area’s natural beauty
• Clifton Hall, ancestral home of the Clifton family
• The Clifton family crest, with its historic lion and cinquefoil

Each element tells part of the Clifton Village story.

Crafted with Care

The sign was commissioned by the Clifton Village Residents' Association from specialist artisans and engineers at The Village Sign People .

Its surround was hand-forged using traditional metalworking techniques to complement the surrounding Grade II listed buildings. Every detail was carefully hand-painted to bring the scenes of Clifton and its landscape to life.

Generously Funded

The project was generously funded by local resident Geoff Mills. Geoff lived in the village for many years, and the community remains deeply grateful for his generosity and support.

Marking the Gateway

The finished sign now stands proudly on a solid oak post at the entrance to the village. Its unveiling marked a special moment for the community - a clear point where the modern city ends and the ancient “settlement on the cliff” begins.