On signing his contract, Hilton said "It's great to look forward to at least another year. I didn't want to move. The only thing that has taken time is that I wanted to get the right contract.
"From a playing point of view it took me a while to settle in.
"I am feeling fresher now and I think I am in the best shape I have been in over the past two years.
As captain, Hilton's signature is seen as a boost to the squad, and he is set to lead the Bristol team out to their Powergen Shield final at Twickenham on Saturday.
"My body has got a good engine in it and who is to say next season might not be my last year."