Nunhead Cemetery

During the early 19th century burial conditions in London had become deplorable and Parliament authorised the opening for seven private cemeteries that would be situated in inner London, one of these was Nunhead Cemetery.

Nunhead Cemetery may be one of the lesser-known Victorian cemeteries but it is often hailed as the most beautiful. It was opened in 1840 but like many other Victorian cemeteries fell into disrepair. After an extensive restoration project the cemetery was reopened in 2001 revealing its many monuments and Anglican chapel in all their glory. Visitors to the cemetery can now see the fantastic gothic monuments of the rich and powerful sitting side-by-side along smaller public burial plots.

The cemetery is a haven for nature and local wildlife, much of the original Victorian planting still exists and the open space is dominated by an impressive avenue of Lime trees. Part of the cemetery is now a dedicated nature reserve and woodland making it the perfect place to spot one of the 16 species of butterfly found in the cemetery not to mention the foxes!

Another reason for visiting the cemetery is for its outstanding views that take in many famous London landmarks including the London Eye, Big Ben and St Paul's Cathedral.

Each Sunday there is a conducted tour of the cemetery starting from the Linden Grove gates at 2.15pm

Find out more about Nunhead Cemetery.

How to get there

The closest tube station is a bus ride away at New Cross, but you can jump on the overground train to Nunhead.

If travelling by bus the 78, 343 and P12 serve the surrounding areas.

Images by Andy Favell