Have you ever visited an ‘old’ church graveyard, where you have no connection to the people buried there? If not, you might be wondering what’s the point of doing so. After all, it might seem like a depressing or creepy activity. But I’m here to tell you that there are actually some benefits of visiting old church graveyards, where the headstones are dated centuries old.
Firstly, old church graveyards offer a unique glimpse into the past. As you wander through the rows of headstones and markers, you can imagine the lives of the people buried there and learn about their history on stones that offer a glimpse of who was there. You may come across the graves of prominent figures from your area or learn about the customs and beliefs of past generations. Exploring a church graveyard can be an engaging way to gain a deeper understanding of the community that lived there.
Grave Stone South London
Secondly, a visit to an old church graveyard can be a peaceful and reflective experience. Graveyards are typically quiet, serene places, and can provide a calming escape from the stresses of modern life. Many people find solace in spending time amongst the graves, reflecting on their own mortality and the fleeting nature of life.
Thirdly, exploring a church graveyard can be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Walking amongst the graves can provide a low-impact workout, and can be an enjoyable way to spend a sunny afternoon. Many graveyards are located in picturesque locations, offering stunning views and scenic walks.
Lastly, visiting an old church graveyard can be a way to honor and respect the dead. Even if you have no personal connection to the cemetery, taking the time to visit and pay your respects can be a meaningful gesture. It can also be a way to acknowledge the impact that past generations have had on our world and recognise the contributions they have made.
- You can reflect on your life and mortality. Visiting a cemetery affords us the chance to reflect on our lives and the loved ones who helped raise us1. We can also think about our own mortality and how we want to live our remaining days. This can help us appreciate what we have and make positive changes in our lives.
- You can learn from history and culture. Exploring an old church graveyard can also be a learning experience. You can discover the stories and histories of the people buried there, their names, dates, occupations, and sometimes even their personalities2. You can also learn about the culture and traditions of the church and the community that surrounds it. You might find some interesting or surprising facts that enrich your knowledge and curiosity.
- You can experience peace and beauty. Finally, visiting a church graveyard can also be a peaceful and beautiful experience. You can enjoy the quietness and solitude of the place, away from the noise and stress of everyday life. You can also admire the architecture and artistry of the graves, monuments, and headstones. You might even find some flowers or other items that have been placed on graves as a sign of respect and love3.
7 Top London Grave Yards to explore
Here are some of the top cemeteries in London that you might want to explore:
Abney Park Cemetery
Abney Park Cemetery is another London cemetery that has been praised for its beauty and historical significance. However, there have been concerns raised about the upkeep of the cemetery and the potential for vandalism and damage to the graves. There have also been issues with overgrown vegetation and the potential for this to cause damage to the headstones and monuments. There are many notable people buried in Abney Park Cemetery. Some of them include William and Catherine Booth, the founders of The Salvation Army; Frank Bostock, a famous animal showman; and Joanna Vassa, the daughter of Olaudah Equiano, who was a freed slave and an anti-slavery campaigner.
Highgate Cemetery
Highgate Cemetery is a beautiful and historically significant cemetery located in London. However, there have been concerns raised about the overcrowding of the cemetery and the impact that this has had on the graves and headstones. Additionally, the entrance fee for the cemetery can be quite high, making it less accessible to those who may wish to visit but cannot afford the cost. There are many notable people buried in Highgate Cemetery. Some of them include Karl Marx, the German philosopher and author of “The Communist Manifesto”; George Michael, a famous singer; and Henry Gray, the author of “Gray’s Anatomy”
Kensal Green Cemetery
Kensal Green Cemetery is a historic cemetery in London that has been in use since the early 19th century. However, there have been concerns raised about the lack of space in the cemetery and the potential for overcrowding. Additionally, there have been issues with vandalism and theft of items from the graves, which has caused distress for families and loved ones of those buried there. There are many notable people buried in Kensal Green Cemetery. Some of them include Rudolph Ackermann, an Artist; Mary Jane Adams, a servant to Queens Victoria and Alexandra; Col. Frederick Robinson Aikman VC, a winner of the VC during the Indian Mutiny; and William Harrison Ainsworth, a journalist, playwright and author
Brompton Cemetery
Brompton Cemetery is a beautiful and historic cemetery located in London. The cemetary is the home to Emmeline Pankhurst. The cemetary is large, dwarving the West Brompton station it is close too. There are many notable people buried in Brompton Cemetery. Some of them include Dame Emma Albani, an Opera Singer; Alexander Anderson, a British Army Major General; Tomasz Arciszewski, a Polish Prime minister; and James Atkinson, a surgeon, artist and Persian scholar
West Norwood Cemetery
West Norwood Cemetery is a 40-acre rural cemetery located in West Norwood, London, England. It was also known as the South Metropolitan Cemetery. It originally opened in 1837 and is one of the first Victorian cemeteries to open in London. There are many notable people buried in West Norwood Cemetery. Some of them include Isabella Beeton, known as Mrs Beeton, an English journalist, editor and writer; Charles Spurgeon, an English Particular Baptist preacher; Hiram Maxim, an American-born British inventor best known as the creator of the first portable fully automatic machine gun; and Henry Tate, the sugar merchant who started the Tate Gallery.
Nunhead Cemetery
Nunhead Cemetery is one of the Magnificent Seven cemeteries in London, England. It is perhaps the least famous and celebrated of them. The cemetery is located in Nunhead in the London Borough of Southwark and was originally known as All Saints’ Cemetery 1. Nunhead Cemetery was consecrated in 1840 and opened by the London Cemetery Company There are many notable people buried in Nunhead Cemetery. Some of them include Charles Abbott, a 101-year-old Ipswich grocer; Sir Frederick Abel, co-inventor of Cordite; Robert Abel, an English test cricketer; and George John Bennett, an English Shakespearian actor.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park2
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is a unique cemetery located in London that has been converted into a public park. The cemetary have an area marked for disasters from war and transport.
