Brief Description
The Old Burial Ground has table tombs, headstones and slabs, some dating from the 18th century and handsomely carved, and it is an important military cemetery.
History
The Old Burial Ground was consecrated in August 1691 and has accommodated some 10,000 bodies, for the pensioners were not normally given a headstone and the ground was used and re-used.
Visitor Facilities
Access is by application to the Royal Hospital Constable at London Gate.Detailed Description
Cemetery within the grounds of the Royal Hospital that served the pensioners residing there. It accommodated some 10,000 burials between its consecration in 1691 and closure in 1854/5 since pensioners were not normally given a headstone and the ground was re-used. There are some fine monuments including a number from the C18th.Sources consulted:
'The Royal Hospital Chelsea' guidebook 2002; Hugh Meller & Brian Parsons, 'London Cemeteries, An Illustrated Guide and Gazetteer', 4th edition (The History Press, 2008). See EH Register
For more information see http://www.londongardensonline.org.uk/gardens-online-record.asp?ID=KAC126
- Access & Directions
Access Contact Details
Access is by application to the Royal Hospital Constable at London Gate.Directions
Nearest tube station - Sloane Square (Circle and District lines).
- Contact
Telephone
01793 445050Official Website
Other websites
- http://www.londongardensonline.org.uk/
- http://list.english-heritage.org.uk/resultsingle.aspx?uid=1000353
Owners
Royal Hospital
- References
Contributors
London Parks and Gardens Trust