Highgate Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in North London, England. Established in 1839, it is one of the most famous Victorian-era cemeteries in the world and is now a designated Grade I listed historic site. It is also a popular tourist attraction and a designated conservation area, with stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful landscaping, and a wealth of fascinating graves.
History
Highgate Cemetery was opened in 1839 and was initially managed by the London Cemetery Company. It was designed by the architect and surveyor, Stephen Geary, and was initially divided into two parts – the East and West Cemeteries. The East Cemetery was opened first and is the more famous of the two, with many of the cemetery’s most notable graves located here. The West Cemetery was opened in 1853 and is more tranquil, with fewer visitors.
Attractions
Highgate Cemetery is home to many famous graves, including those of Karl Marx, George Eliot, and Douglas Adams. It is also home to a variety of architectural features, including Gothic chapels, monuments, and tombs. The cemetery is also home to many species of wildlife, including foxes, bats, and owls.
Tours
Highgate Cemetery offers a variety of guided tours, including a general tour, a tour of the East Cemetery, and a tour of the West Cemetery. The general tour takes visitors around the cemetery, while the East and West Cemetery tours focus on the graves and monuments in each of these sections. All tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides and are available in a variety of languages.
Admission
Admission to Highgate Cemetery is free, although donations are welcome. Guided tours must be booked in advance and cost £12 per person.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes as the cemetery is quite large and there is a lot to explore.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture and monuments.
- Be respectful of the graves and monuments.
- Be aware of the wildlife in the cemetery.
- Plan your visit in advance and book any guided tours you want to take.
Practical Information
- Address: Swain’s Lane, Highgate, London N6 6PJ, UK
- Opening Hours: 10am-5pm (Monday-Friday), 10am-4pm (Saturday-Sunday)
- Phone: +44 (0)20 8340 1834
- Website: highgatecemetery.org
Highgate Cemetery is a fascinating and beautiful historic site with a wealth of attractions for visitors. With its stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful landscaping, and fascinating graves, it is a must-see for anyone visiting London. Whether you take a guided tour or explore the cemetery independently, you are sure to be captivated by this unique and historic site.
