free things to see and do in London
Tombs of famous Londoners
St Pauls
Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington are both buried in St Pauls
See them on the city walk
Westminster Abbey
All British monarchs up until George II are buried in Westminster Abbey
See them on the royal walk
Southwark Cathedral
William Shakespeare's brother and the first poet of England are buried in Southwark Cathedral
See them on the cultural walk
Several Victorian cemeteries and pre-Victorian burial grounds still exist within central London. Almost all are free to access.
The cemeteries provide a glimpse into Victorian London and the churchyards are pleasant places to stop and rest, especially on warm summer days.
Victorian Cemeteries
Famous for the Egyptian Avenue and the Circle of Babylon, the old (western) part of Highgate cemetery is wonderful to explore.
Access: Unfortunately, it is only accessible via chargeable guided tours, but these take place daily.
Nearest underground station: Archway
place map and aerial view
The first of the commercial cemeteries in London, it is still owned by the original company that established it.
Access: Open every day, chargeable guided tours also available
Nearest underground stations: Kensal Green, Ladbroke Grove
place map and aerial view
The first burial was in 1837 and by 1966 the cemetery was full. People buried include Tate (of Tate Gallery fame).
Access: Open every day, guided tours available
Nearest railway station: West Norwood
place map and aerial view
Nunhead cemetery contains a memorial to five Scottish martyrs. The cemetery was closed in 1969 but is now open again for burials.
Open: Open daily, and open days advertised on Friends website
Nearest railway station: Nunhead
place map and aerial view
Around a third of those buried in this cemetery were non conformists - permission to have it consecrated was refused.
Access: as it is a public park, it is open daily
Nearest underground station: Angel (then bus)
The first cemetery under state control, Brompton cemetery is these days popular with filmmakers.
Access: as it is a public park, it is open daily
Nearest underground station: West Brompton
place map and aerial view