Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery | Everything You Need to Know

Step into a world where history, art, and nature intertwine at Highgate Cemetery, one of London’s most evocative and historic burial grounds. Opened in 1839 as part of the “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries, this Grade I listed site in North London is renowned for its stunning Victorian architecture, famous graves, and serene woodland setting. Home to approximately 170,000 burials, including luminaries like Karl Marx, George Eliot, and Douglas Adams, Highgate offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Whether you’re exploring the atmospheric Egyptian Avenue, wandering among ivy-clad monuments, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, Highgate Cemetery is a must-visit for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape in London.

Location

Highgate Cemetery is located at Swain’s Lane, London N6 6PJ, United Kingdom, in the London Borough of Camden, adjacent to Waterlow Park. The main entrance is on Swain’s Lane, just north of Oakshott Avenue, with a disused gate on Chester Road. Its proximity to landmarks like Hampstead Heath makes it a central part of North London’s cultural landscape. Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for precise navigation.

Opening Hours

Highgate Cemetery is open daily, except on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. From March to October, hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM. From November to February, it operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with last entry at 3:30 PM. During funerals or inclement weather, access may be restricted, so check the Highgate Cemetery visit page for updates.

How to Get There

Highgate Cemetery is well-connected by public transport:

• By Tube: The nearest stations are Archway (Northern line, 10-15 minute walk) and Highgate (Northern line, 15-20 minute walk). From Archway, take buses 143 or 271 to the Waterlow Park stop for a shorter walk.
• By Bus: The C11 bus stops at Brookfield Park on Swain’s Lane, close to the main entrance. Buses 143, 210, and 271 stop at Waterlow Park on Highgate High Street, a short walk away. Check Transport for London for schedules.
• By Train: Kentish Town station (15-20 minute walk or short bus ride) connects to national rail services.
• By Bicycle: Bicycle racks are available outside the West Cemetery gates and further down Swain’s Lane. No Santander Cycles docking stations are nearby.
• By Car: No visitor parking is available. On-street parking is free after 12:00 PM Monday–Friday and all weekend, but spaces are limited. Blue Badge parking can be booked in advance by contacting +44 (0)20 8340 1834, providing at least two working days’ notice.
• On Foot: A scenic 15-20 minute walk from Kentish Town or Hampstead Heath offers a pleasant approach through North London’s green spaces.

For real-time travel planning, use TfL Go or Citymapper.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Highgate Cemetery is during spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November), when mild weather and vibrant foliage enhance the cemetery’s atmospheric beauty. Weekdays, especially early mornings at 10:00 AM, are ideal for avoiding crowds, as Sundays tend to be the busiest day. Summer (June–August) brings longer daylight hours but larger crowds, while winter (December–February) offers a quieter, eerie experience, though it can be cold and wet. Foggy days add a haunting charm, perfect for photography. Check the Highgate Cemetery events page for special tours or activities, such as stone-carving workshops or grief walks.

Tickets and Costs

Entry to Highgate Cemetery requires a ticket, payable by card only (no cash). Tickets must be booked online in advance via the Highgate Cemetery tickets page to secure your time slot, though East side-only tickets are available on-site. Prices as of 2025 are:

Ticket Type	Adults	Children (8-17)	Children (0-7)	Members	Notes
General Admission (East & West)	£10	£5	Free	Free	Book online
East Side Only	£7	£3.50	Free	Free	On-site only
Highlights Tour (West, includes both sides)	£18	£9	Not permitted	£8	Book online
East Side Tour	£15	£7	Not permitted	£8	Upgrade on-site
Private Group Tour (min. 10 people)	£18	£9	Not permitted	–	Book via form
Group Visit (no tour, min. £100)	£10	£5	–	–	Book via form

• Concessions: Free entry for one carer per person with support needs. No senior or student discounts are available on-site.
• Notes: The Terrace Catacombs are accessible only via guided tours. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

What to Expect

Highgate Cemetery spans two distinct areas across Swain’s Lane:

• West Cemetery: Known for its dramatic, overgrown landscape and architectural highlights like the Egyptian Avenue, Circle of Lebanon, and Terrace Catacombs. Access is available via guided tours (70-75 minutes) or self-guided visits with a general admission ticket. The West side features the grand mausoleum of Julius Beer and the historic chapel.
• East Cemetery: Home to famous graves like Karl Marx’s and Douglas Adams’, it’s less overgrown and more open, ideal for self-guided exploration. Notable modern tombstones include Patrick Caulfield’s striking “DEAD” design.
• Nature Reserve: The cemetery is a haven for wildlife, including rare cave spiders, butterflies, and birds, with ivy-clad monuments and woodland paths creating a serene setting.

A typical visit lasts 1-2 hours, with guided tours offering deeper historical insights. Facilities include a small Colonnade Café in the West side courtyard, accessible toilets, a water bottle refill station, and a gift shop with cemetery-themed souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi is available at the entrance and chapel, but streaming or large downloads are discouraged. The cemetery’s tranquil atmosphere requires respectful behavior, as it remains an active burial site.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: Highgate Cemetery is safe, with staff and volunteers ensuring a respectful environment. Visitors should stay on designated paths to avoid uneven ground or unstable monuments. As an active burial site, maintain a quiet demeanor, especially during funerals. Be cautious of pickpockets in busy areas and keep valuables secure.
• Accessibility: The East Cemetery offers rampless entry, making it more accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues. The West Cemetery has uneven paths and steps, requiring assistance for some visitors; staff can open a gate for access. Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities are available in the West side courtyard. Blue Badge parking can be booked in advance by calling +44 (0)20 8340 1834. Assistance dogs are welcome. For specific needs, contact info@highgatecemetery.org or visit the Highgate Cemetery access page.

History and Background

Opened on May 20, 1839, Highgate Cemetery was established by the London Cemetery Company to address London’s overcrowded churchyards, part of the “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries created in the 19th century. Designed by architect Stephen Geary, it became a fashionable burial place for the wealthy, with its West side featuring elaborate Victorian Gothic structures like the Egyptian Avenue, inspired by the era’s fascination with Egyptology. The East side, opened in 1854, expanded the cemetery to meet growing demand. 

By the mid-20th century, the cemetery fell into disrepair, but the Friends of Highgate Cemetery Trust, formed in the 1970s, revitalized it. Today, it’s a Grade I listed site, celebrated for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and biodiversity. Fun Fact: Highgate’s eerie atmosphere inspired horror films by Hammer Studios in the 1970s, adding to its mystique with tales of vampires and grave-robbing.

Nearby Attractions

Highgate Cemetery’s location in North London offers easy access to several attractions:

• Waterlow Park (5-minute walk): A serene park with gardens and views of London (Waterlow Park).
• Hampstead Heath (15-minute walk): A vast green space with walking trails and bathing ponds (Hampstead Heath).
• Lauderdale House (10-minute walk): A historic arts center with a café and events (Lauderdale House).
• Highgate Wood (15-minute walk): An ancient woodland, especially stunning during bluebell season (City of London).
• Kenwood House (20-minute walk): A Georgian mansion with art collections and parkland (English Heritage).

Combine your visit with a stroll through Waterlow Park and Hampstead Heath for a full day of exploration in North London.

Practical Tips

• Book Tickets Online: Reserve general admission or tour tickets via the Highgate Cemetery tickets page to avoid queues.
• Wear Sturdy Shoes: Uneven paths and steps require comfortable, durable footwear.
• Bring a Raincoat: London’s weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for rain.
• Respect the Site: Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor, as it’s an active burial ground.
• Photography: Allowed for personal use, but commercial photography requires a permit; contact info@highgatecemetery.org.
• Travel Light: Large bags or wheeled suitcases are not permitted; limited storage is available.
• Check for Events: Look for workshops or special tours on the Highgate Cemetery events page.
• Use the Map: Download a map from the Highgate Cemetery website to navigate the grounds.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Highgate Cemetery?

Highgate Cemetery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (March–October) and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (November–February), with last entry 30 minutes before closing. It’s closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

How much does it cost to visit Highgate Cemetery?

General admission is £10 for adults and £5 for children aged 8-17, with free entry for under 8s. Guided tours cost £18 for adults and £9 for children, including access to both sides.

Is Highgate Cemetery suitable for children?

Yes, it’s suitable for children, but those under 8 are not permitted on West side tours due to the nature of the content and terrain.

Are there any discounts available for Highgate Cemetery?

No senior or student discounts are available on-site, but Friends of Highgate Cemetery members receive discounted tour prices (£8). Group rates may apply for bookings of 10 or more.

How long does it take to visit Highgate Cemetery?

A typical visit lasts 1-2 hours, with guided tours taking 70-75 minutes.

Is photography allowed at Highgate Cemetery?

Yes, photography for personal use is permitted, but commercial photography requires a permit.

Are there guided tours available at Highgate Cemetery?

Yes, guided tours, such as the Highlights Tour, are available and recommended for first-time visitors, covering the West side and including access to both sides.

What’s the best way to get to Highgate Cemetery from the city center?

Take the Northern line to Archway or Highgate station, then walk 10-15 minutes or take buses 143 or 271 to Waterlow Park.

Is Highgate Cemetery wheelchair accessible?

The East side has rampless entry and is more accessible, while the West side may require assistance due to uneven paths. Accessible toilets and Blue Badge parking are available; contact info@highgatecemetery.org for arrangements.

Are there dining options near Highgate Cemetery?

A small café, the Colonnade Café, is available in the West side courtyard. Additional dining options, including cafes and restaurants, can be found in Highgate Village or at Lauderdale House.