Cemetery Closures

In line with government guidance on combatting the Covid-19 virus, cemeteries across the UK have closed until further notice

Notice on the gate of Highgate Cemetery West

Following advice from the government, many councils and cemetery management companies across the country have closed their cemeteries until further notice. This is in an attempt to curb the spread of the virus.

In these difficult times, it can be upsetting for those who can no longer visit the graves of their loved ones. 

Some cemeteries remain open for burials, while others are offering to place flowers and other mementoes on graves while the gates remain closed to visitors.

Highgate Cemetery posted the following on its website on 23 March 2020:

VISITING
We are very sorry to say that the closure also includes grave owners visiting their graves. We are committed to supporting new government rules on staying at home. These give only four permissible reasons for leaving the house, and our reading of them is that visiting a grave is not included.
We encourage you to remember your loved ones in other ways. Organisations such as The Good Grief Trust, for example, may be able to provide you with help and support at this difficult time.
BURIALS
We are not accepting burials of cremated remains until further notice. We will endeavour to accommodate full burials in existing graves as best we can, but we are not able to sell new graves. To arrange a burial, please email info@highgatecemetery.org.
Please check back here for further information as the situation develops.

Bath and North East Somerset Council have announced the following regarding Haycombe Cemetery:

The main office is operational by appointment only. It is otherwise closed until further notice. Existing appointments will be honoured and families will be met by staff outside the office. We will assist families over the telephone or by email whenever possible. Waiting rooms have been closed, to avoid people having to gather in confined spaces. We are working hard to continue to give the best service possible to families at an already difficult time. We appreciate your patience and understanding, and apologise for any distress caused by these necessary changes.