Eleanor Rigby Gravesite at St. Peter's Churchyard, Woolton
Discover the poignant gravesite of Eleanor Rigby, a Liverpool landmark entwined with Beatles history and timeless musical legacy.
The Eleanor Rigby Gravesite in Liverpool's Woolton district marks the resting place of a woman whose name inspired one of The Beatles' most poignant songs. Located in the churchyard of St. Peter's Church, this historical landmark connects deeply with Liverpool's musical heritage and the early days of John Lennon and Paul McCartney's friendship. Visitors find a serene spot that reflects both personal history and cultural legacy.
A brief summary to Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
- 5JF, 39-43 Church Rd, Liverpool, L25 5JE, GB
- +441514286810
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tranquil churchyard and read the inscriptions on the gravestone.
- Combine your visit with a tour of other Beatles heritage sites in Woolton, including the hall where Lennon and McCartney first met.
- Respect the solemnity of the gravesite and the surrounding churchyard; photography is allowed but maintain quiet reverence.
- Check the opening times of St. Peter’s Church if you wish to explore the interior or attend a service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Merseytravel bus services 75 or 86 from Liverpool city center to Woolton Village; the journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. From the bus stop, the churchyard is a 5-minute walk. Tickets cost around £2.50-£4.00 GBP.
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Train and Walk
Use the Merseyrail Northern Line to Hunts Cross station, about 15 minutes from Liverpool Central. From Hunts Cross, it’s a 20-minute walk through residential streets to St. Peter’s Churchyard. This option is suitable for those who enjoy walking and offers a scenic suburban route. Train fares start at £3.00 GBP one way.
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Car
Driving from Liverpool city center takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available near Woolton Village; some streets require payment or have time restrictions. Be prepared for narrow residential roads and possible congestion during weekends or events.
Eleanor Rigby Gravesite location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
A Name Immortalized in Song
The Eleanor Rigby Gravesite is located in the churchyard of St. Peter's Church in Woolton, a suburb of Liverpool. The gravestone bears the name Eleanor Rigby, a name famously immortalized by Paul McCartney in the 1966 Beatles song "Eleanor Rigby." While the song's narrative is fictional, the real Eleanor Rigby was a Liverpool woman born in 1895 who lived in Woolton and died in 1939 at the age of 44. The gravestone also commemorates other members of the Rigby family, including her grandfather John Rigby and his wife Frances. This site has become a place of pilgrimage for Beatles fans and those interested in Liverpool's rich cultural history.Historical and Musical Context
St. Peter's Churchyard is not only significant for the Eleanor Rigby grave but also as the backdrop to a pivotal moment in music history. It was here, at the Woolton Village fete in July 1957, that John Lennon met Paul McCartney for the first time. The church grounds and nearby hall hosted performances by Lennon's band, the Quarry Men, setting the stage for the formation of The Beatles. The graveyard and church thus serve as a tangible link to the origins of one of the most influential bands in music history.The Real Eleanor Rigby’s Life
Eleanor Rigby was born Eleanor Rigby Whitfield in 1895 and spent her life in Liverpool. She worked in a hospital and married Thomas Woods, a railway foreman, in 1930. Despite a joyful marriage, Eleanor faced personal hardships, including being unable to have children. She died from a brain hemorrhage in 1939 and was buried in St. Peter's churchyard alongside her family members. Though Paul McCartney has said he did not write the song specifically about her, he acknowledged that he may have subconsciously borrowed her name from the gravestone.Visiting the Gravesite Today
The gravestone is situated in the section of the cemetery to the left of the church, in the second row facing the street, just right of the cemetery's center walkway. The churchyard is peaceful and reflective, with local parishioners welcoming visitors who come to see this iconic landmark. Nearby, visitors can also find references to other Beatles-related sites in Woolton, including the hall where Lennon and McCartney first met. The site offers a quiet moment to contemplate the intersection of personal history and cultural impact.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Eleanor Rigby grave has transcended its original purpose to become a symbol of loneliness and humanity, themes central to the Beatles song. It also highlights Liverpool’s deep musical roots and the city's pride in its cultural icons. The grave and churchyard are part of a broader Beatles heritage trail that attracts music lovers and historians alike. Additionally, a statue of Eleanor Rigby in Liverpool city center commemorates the character from the song, further cementing her place in popular culture.Architectural and Environmental Setting
St. Peter's Church, built in 1886 using local sandstone, features notable stained glass by Charles Kempe and William Morris. Its bell tower is the highest point in Liverpool, providing a striking silhouette against the sky. The churchyard's tranquil setting, with mature trees and historic gravestones, offers a scenic and contemplative environment. The combination of architectural beauty and cultural resonance makes this gravesite a unique destination for visitors interested in history, music, and heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
0.0 km
Visit the poignant gravesite of Eleanor Rigby, the real-life inspiration behind The Beatles’ haunting song, nestled in historic Woolton churchyard.
12 Arnold Grove
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Unmissable attractions to see
Woolton Village
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Penny Ln
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Essential places to dine
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The London Carriage Works
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Roski Restaurant
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Chamber 36 City Centre
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Cowshed Liverpool
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Camp and Furnace
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Restaurants Liverpool
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MumsKitchen Liverpool
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The Italian Club
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Penny Lane Emporium
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Larks
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The Liverpool Crystal Shop
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69A
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Pop Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
