Cemeteries Re-opening

As lockdown eases, more cemeteries across the UK are reopening to visitors

Cemeteries have begun to reopen across the country as Covid-19 restrictions are relaxed. Although some cemeteries have been open in past weeks to grave owners, it has not been possible for general visitors or family historians to spend time in these calm spaces.

Many of the cemeteries whose registers feature in the Deceased Online database are once again open to general visitors. These include Highgate Cemetery, where a notice of re-opening was posted on the gate of the East Cemetery last week (see above image).

Others that are now open include Islington and St Pancras Cemetery in East Finchley, and West Norwood Cemetery in the London borough of Lambeth.

Cemeteries that remain closed include Lister Lane Cemetery in Halifax, Yorkshire.

All Bolton Council Cemeteries are now open to the public between 9am and 8pm every day. Visitors are reminded to observe social distancing guidelines at all times.

Highgate Cemetery posted the following on its website on 3 June 2020:

** Grave owner visiting times **

Highgate Cemetery is open for visits by grave owners only. Please bring your pass. Visiting hours coming up: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 2-5pm. You will need to phone when you get here to be let in. ALSO Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June 10am to 5pm.

** Other visitors **

Highgate Cemetery East will be open on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June. Booking essential. See Visit > East Cemetery. Visiting hours may change without notice. Please check back here before you visit just in case!

If you are planning to visit your ancestors or a local graveyard, it is recommended that you check with the relevant cemetery or burial authority in order to confirm their current arrangements.

Do let us know whether you have been able to visit any cemeteries. How did you find the experience? Contact us in the box below or on our Twitter and Facebook pages.

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