Brief Description
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.
History
King George III apparently provided 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) for burial purposes in around 1786, and to the south-west, and separated from the burial plot by open ground, was the workhouse of 1786 with the inscription over the main entrance that it was provided 'by the munificence of H M King George III'.
Visitor Facilities
10am-4.30pm (November - March); 10am - 6.30pm (April - October)Detailed Description
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
- Access & Directions
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
- History
Period
- Late 18th Century
- 18th Century
- Associated People
Just one person associated to Richmond Cemetery
- Contact
- References
Contributors
London Parks and Gardens Trust