Friends of West Norwood Cemetery

West Norwood Cemetery (formerly known as the South Metropolitan Cemetery) was the second of the Magnificent Seven: early Victorian cemeteries set up by private companies between 1833-1841 to provide for London’s expanding population. West Norwood was the first Gothic-Revival cemetery, designed by William Tite. In addition to original features like the entrance arch, and iron railings, a key feature of the cemetery is its ornate monuments and mausolea. Known as the Millionaires’ Cemetery, West Norwood is the resting place of many self-made Victorian industrialists (often inventors), manufacturers and businessmen. You may be surprised to find Mrs Beeton, the founders of Doulton Potteries, and Sir Henry Tate (Mr Cube). There will be others who you may not recognise, but who have contributed to well-loved aspects of our world today - the person who organised the first tour of a national English cricket team to Australia in1861; the first to make biscuits on an industrial scale, and so many more aspects of our everyday lives.

The tours last about 90 minutes. Please assemble by the the archway. You don't need to print off your tickets.

How to get here:

West Norwood Cemetery and Crematorium SE27 9JU is next to St Luke's Church and West Norwood Library

Buses: 2, 68, 196, 315, 322, 432 and 468 (several of these routes go via Brixton Tube Station: 2, 196, 322, 432). Robson Road stop

Train: West Norwood Station (trains to and from London Bridge/Victoria)