Glades House, Cemetery Pales, Brookwood, Woking GU24 0BL
Brookwood Cemetery
Brookwood Cemetery, also known as the London Necropolis, is a burial ground in Brookwood, Surrey, England. It is the largest cemetery in the United Kingdom and one of the largest in Europe. The cemetery is listed a Grade I site in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.
Location
About
Brookwood Cemetery is one of the most historic burial grounds in England and is located in the town of Woking, Surrey. It is the final resting place of many prominent figures from various walks of life, and its rich history attracts tourists from around the world. If you're planning a visit to England, here's what you need to know about Brookwood Cemetery.
History
Brookwood Cemetery was opened in 1854 and was designed to be the largest cemetery in the world at the time. It covers an area of over 500 acres and is home to more than 235,000 graves. The cemetery was created to address the growing demand for burial space in London, and it quickly became the preferred burial ground for the city's wealthy and influential residents.
In the early 20th century, the cemetery fell into disrepair, and many of its buildings and monuments were vandalized. However, in recent years, efforts have been made to restore the cemetery to its former glory, and it has become a popular tourist attraction.
What to See
One of the most impressive features of Brookwood Cemetery is the variety of graves and monuments on display. The cemetery is divided into several sections, each with its own distinct character. The Roman Catholic section, for example, contains a number of ornate mausoleums and monuments, while the Military Cemetery is home to the graves of soldiers from around the world who died during the two World Wars.
One of the most famous graves in Brookwood Cemetery belongs to Sir Edward Elgar, the renowned composer who is best known for his "Enigma Variations." His grave is located in the St. Michael's Chapel section of the cemetery and is marked by a simple stone cross.
Another notable grave is that of Baroness Orczy, the author of "The Scarlet Pimpernel." Her grave is located in the same section as Elgar's and is marked by a distinctive obelisk.
In addition to the graves and monuments, Brookwood Cemetery is also home to a number of wildlife species, including badgers, foxes, and a wide variety of birds.
How to Visit
Brookwood Cemetery is open to visitors year-round, and there is no admission fee. Visitors are welcome to explore the cemetery on foot, although guided tours are also available. The cemetery is easily accessible by public transport, with regular trains from London Waterloo to Brookwood Station, which is located just a short walk from the cemetery entrance.
When visiting Brookwood Cemetery, it is important to remember that it is still an active burial ground, and visitors should be respectful of the graves and monuments. Photography is permitted, but visitors should refrain from touching or climbing on any of the graves or monuments.
In conclusion, Brookwood Cemetery is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or nature. Its varied collection of graves and monuments provides a unique insight into England's cultural heritage, and its peaceful surroundings make it a perfect place to reflect and remember. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, Brookwood Cemetery is a must-see destination for anyone visiting England.
Gallery
Opening Hours
| Friday | 9 am–8 pm |
|---|---|
| Saturday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Monday | 9 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–5 pm |