St James Mount and The Gardens, Liverpool

From Quarry to Cathedral Grounds

St James Mount, originally known as Quarry Hill or Mount Zion, began as a sandstone quarry from the 16th century, supplying stone for Liverpool's historic buildings. By 1771, it was transformed into Liverpool’s first public park, known as St James’s Mount Walk. The quarry ceased operation in 1825, leaving a large excavation that would soon be repurposed as a cemetery. Above this site, construction of the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral began in 1903, dominating the skyline and providing a dramatic backdrop to the gardens below.

The Victorian Cemetery Legacy

In 1825, Liverpool established St James’s Cemetery on the former quarry site, designed by architect John Foster Jr and landscaper John Shepherd. Modeled after Paris’s Père Lachaise Cemetery, it was consecrated in 1829 and served as a major burial ground, with over 50,000 interments by 1936. The cemetery featured imposing stone walls, iron railings, and broad ramps lined with catacombs carved into the rock face. Notable memorials include a temple dedicated to William Huskisson, the first railway fatality, and tributes to local figures such as health reformer Kitty Wilkinson.

Transformation into a Garden Oasis

After the cemetery closed, the site was landscaped and converted into a public garden by 1972. The gardens retain many historic elements, including a stone path lined with recycled gravestones that descends through a tunnel between the cathedral’s Oratory and main entrance. Visitors can also find the Huskisson memorial, a natural chalybeate spring, and the monumental archway and Garden Lodge built by Foster. This blend of solemn history and green space creates a unique urban sanctuary.

The Chalybeate Spring and Local Legends

Discovered in 1773 by quarry workers, the chalybeate spring is rich in iron and was once considered a healthful spa water. Medical professionals of the time praised its restorative properties for various ailments. The spring’s water flows gently through yellow stone, offering a cool, refreshing taste. Local lore adds an eerie dimension, with stories of the water mysteriously darkening when boiled, believed by some to be a ghostly warning. Today, the spring is restored and marked by a commemorative plaque.

Architectural and Natural Features

The gardens are framed by historic stone walls and feature broad ramps and catacombs carved into the sandstone cliffs. The Garden Lodge and monumental archway at the south entrance showcase the stone craftsmanship of the early 19th century. The site’s sunken layout creates a secluded atmosphere, offering views of the cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture. This combination of natural and built elements makes St James Mount and The Gardens a distinctive heritage site.

A Quiet Retreat in the City Centre

Today, St James Mount and The Gardens provide a peaceful escape amid Liverpool’s vibrant city centre. The park’s Grade I listing reflects its historic and architectural significance. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walks, reflect by the spring, and explore the remnants of Liverpool’s past in a setting that connects nature, history, and culture seamlessly.