Dean Cemetery: Edinburgh’s Victorian Garden of Memory
A serene Victorian garden cemetery in Edinburgh, rich with historic monuments and the resting place of Scotland’s cultural icons.
Dean Cemetery, established in 1846 in Edinburgh, is a historically significant Victorian garden cemetery known for its ornate mausoleums, elaborate headstones, and tranquil landscaped grounds. It serves as the final resting place for many of Scotland’s notable artists, architects, and philosophers, offering visitors a serene space rich in cultural heritage and Victorian funerary art.
A brief summary to Dean Cemetery
- 63 Dean Path, Edinburgh, EH4 3AT, GB
- +441313321496
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Take time to explore the ornate mausoleums and headstones to appreciate Victorian funerary art.
- Visit the war graves section to reflect on the Commonwealth service personnel commemorated here.
- Look for the graves of notable figures such as David Octavius Hill and Sir Thomas Bouch.
- Enjoy the peaceful garden setting ideal for quiet walks and contemplation.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 12 or 26 from Edinburgh city center to Dean Path, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend service variations. A single fare costs around £1.80.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Tram to the Murrayfield Stadium stop, then walk about 1.5 km (20 minutes) along quiet residential streets to Dean Cemetery. The tram fare is approximately £6 for a single journey from the city center.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Edinburgh to Dean Cemetery takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing roughly £8-£12. Taxis provide a direct and comfortable option, especially in poor weather.
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Walking
From Edinburgh city center, walking to Dean Cemetery takes about 40 minutes. The route includes some gentle uphill sections and paved sidewalks, suitable for most fitness levels.
Dean Cemetery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dean Cemetery
A Victorian Vision of Commemoration
Dean Cemetery was laid out in 1846 by Edinburgh architect David Cousin, reflecting the Victorian era’s shift towards garden cemeteries that combined natural beauty with memorialization. Originally known as Edinburgh Western Cemetery, it was designed as a dignified resting place primarily for the city’s middle and upper classes. The cemetery’s layout features winding paths and mature trees, creating a peaceful, park-like atmosphere that encourages quiet reflection amid sculpted monuments and lush greenery.Architectural Elegance and Artistic Legacy
The cemetery is renowned for its impressive Victorian funerary architecture, including numerous mausoleums and elaborate headstones. These range from grand classical designs to intricate Gothic Revival styles, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the period. The monuments honor a wide array of individuals, including prominent artists, architects, philosophers, and civic leaders who shaped Edinburgh’s cultural and intellectual landscape.Historical Significance and Notable Residents
Dean Cemetery stands on the site of the former Dean House, part of the Dean Estate, with origins dating back to the early 17th century. The cemetery holds the graves of many influential Scots such as David Octavius Hill, a pioneer of early photography, and Sir Thomas Bouch, the railway engineer. It also contains war graves from both World Wars and memorials to figures like Robert Digby-Jones VC. Each monument tells a story of Scotland’s rich history and the lives of its distinguished citizens.The Cemetery as a Living Landscape
Maintained as a privately owned site, Dean Cemetery remains remarkably intact as a designed landscape, preserving its original Victorian character. The mature trees and carefully planned grounds create a tranquil environment that blends solemn remembrance with the celebration of life and artistry. Visitors often find the serene garden setting conducive to peaceful strolls and contemplation.Extension and Evolution
As the original plots filled quickly, the cemetery was extended northwards in 1871. This newer section, while simpler in design, includes a notable row of Scottish judges and additional war graves. The extension is connected to the main cemetery, maintaining the continuity of the site’s historical and cultural narrative.A Unique Cultural and Historical Resource
Dean Cemetery serves as an open-air museum of funerary art and a repository of Edinburgh’s heritage. Its combination of architectural beauty, notable interments, and landscaped tranquility makes it a unique destination for those interested in history, art, and the Victorian approach to death and remembrance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Dean Bridge
0.5 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
15 Charlotte Square
0.8 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
1.3 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Edinburgh Castle
1.5 km
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage with stunning views, rich history, and cultural treasures.
Scottish National War Memorial
1.5 km
Explore the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring the valor and sacrifice of Scottish soldiers across history.
Princes Street Gardens
1.5 km
Explore the enchanting Princes Street Gardens, where lush landscapes meet iconic views of Edinburgh Castle in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Great Hall
1.5 km
Explore The Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage and architectural beauty.
Royal Palace
1.5 km
Discover the Royal Palace of Edinburgh: a historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage, breathtaking architecture, and stunning gardens in the heart of the city.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
1.6 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1.6 km
Uncover the beauty and biodiversity at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a serene retreat showcasing thousands of plant species in a stunning natural setting.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
1.6 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Floral Clock
1.6 km
Discover the world's oldest floral clock—a vibrant, living timepiece blooming with history and horticultural artistry in Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street Gardens.
The India Cross
1.7 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
The Witches Well
1.7 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
1.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern Two
0.2 km
Explore groundbreaking modern art and sculpture in Edinburgh’s inspiring Modern Two gallery, set within a stunning sculpture park.
Water of Leith Weir
0.2 km
A serene and historic riverside retreat near Dean Village, blending nature, heritage, and tranquil waters in the heart of Edinburgh.
Dean Village
0.3 km
Discover Dean Village, Edinburgh’s tranquil historic milling village with cobbled streets, scenic river views, and timeless Victorian charm.
Well Court
0.3 km
Discover Well Court, a beautifully restored Victorian Arts and Crafts social housing gem nestled in Edinburgh’s tranquil Dean Village.
Water of Leith Walkway
0.3 km
A serene 13-mile riverside trail weaving through Edinburgh’s history, nature, and culture from Balerno to Leith.
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One
0.4 km
Explore captivating modern and contemporary art in a historic neoclassical gallery set within stunning sculpture gardens in Edinburgh.
West End
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s West End, where historic grandeur meets vibrant culture in a charming city district full of art, architecture, and scenic beauty.
St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s tallest Victorian Gothic cathedral, renowned for its soaring spires, stunning stained glass, and vibrant spiritual heritage.
St. Bernard's Well
0.7 km
An exquisite 18th-century Greco-Roman temple over a healing spring, blending classical beauty with Edinburgh’s rich spa heritage.
The Georgian House
0.9 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Charlotte Square
1.0 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
Stockbridge Market
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
St. John's Church Hall
1.1 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Oxford Bar
1.1 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
1.2 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Palmerston
0.8 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Forage & Chatter
0.8 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
The Pompadour
1.0 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Aizle
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
BABA
1.0 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Locanda de Gusti
1.1 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
First Coast Restaurant
1.1 km
Modern Scottish cuisine in a relaxed West End neighbourhood setting, celebrating local ingredients and attentive hospitality.
Purslane Restaurant
1.1 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Badger & Co
1.2 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Contini George Street
1.2 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
1.2 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Dine Edinburgh
1.3 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
TIMBERYARD
1.5 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
The Table
1.5 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
1.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
ScotlandShop
0.9 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
One World Shop
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Those Were The Days Vintage
1.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Scottish Design Exchange
1.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
The Treasure Trove
1.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
1.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Poundland
1.4 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Carnivàle Vintage
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Greyfriars Art
1.5 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Portcullis Gift Shop
1.5 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Herman Brown
1.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Unicorn Antiques
1.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Edinburgh Art Shop
1.6 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jolly Botanist
0.9 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
Panda & Sons
1.0 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
The Caley Bar
1.0 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
Dirty Dick's Pub
1.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
The Last Word
1.1 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
1.1 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
NQ64 Edinburgh
1.1 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
1.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
Copper Blossom
1.2 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
1.3 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Lucky Liquor Co
1.3 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
The Raging Bull
1.4 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
SKYbar Edinburgh
1.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Club Tropicana
1.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.3 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
1.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
1.6 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
1.6 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
1.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Liquid Room
1.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
2.0 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
2.0 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
2.0 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
2.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
2.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
