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Richmond Cemetery (also known as Richmond Old Cemetery)

Introduction

The oldest part of Richmond Cemetery has mature trees, a decayed gothic chapel in the cemetery itself and a restored gothic chapel at the entrance gate. There are many interesting tombs and the site was rural and picturesque, not unlike Highgate Cemetery, albeit on a much smaller scale.

The cemetery appears to have originated in c.1786 as a small burial plot donated by King George III, who also endowed the workhouse nearby. In 1853 steps were taken to acquire the cemetery for municipal use, although Richmond Burial Board was not formed until 1868. Between 1868 and 1890 the cemetery was enlarged several times, with further extensions in 1898 and 1902. Adjacent and contiguous with Richmond Cemetery is East Sheen Cemetery. The cemetery contains numerous mature trees including yew and cypress, particularly in the older part, and the more open grassed area is surrounded by horse chestnuts, lime, false acacia and ash, with yew and holly throughout. There are numerous interesting tombs commemorating people in all walks of life, including a number of local and national dignitaries.

Sources consulted:

Hugh Meller & Brian Parsons, 'London Cemeteries, An Illustrated Guide and Gazetteer', 4th edition (The History Press, 2008); Bridget Cherry & Nikolaus Pevsner, The Buildings of England: London 2: South (Penguin) 1999; John Archer, David Curson, 'Nature Conservation in Richmond upon Thames, Ecology Handbook 21', (London Ecology Unit) 1993 p81

For more information see http://www.londongardensonline.org.uk/gardens-online-record.asp?ID=RIC062

Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts

Access contact details

10am-4.30pm (November - March); 10am - 6.30pm (April - October)

Directions

Rail: North Sheen. Rail/London Overground/Tube (District): Richmond. Bus: 33, 337, 493

Owners

LB Richmond

Other Websites

History

Period

  • 18th Century
  • Late 18th Century
Associated People
Features & Designations

Designations

  • The National Heritage List for England: Listed Building

  • Reference: C of E Chapel
  • Grade: II
Key Information

Type

Funerary Site

Purpose

Sacred / Ritual / Funerary

Principal Building

Religious Ritual And Funerary

Period

18th Century

Survival

Extant

Hectares

6.07

Open to the public

Yes

References

Contributors

  • London Parks and Gardens Trust