Bunhill Fields Burial Ground: London's Historic Nonconformist Cemetery and Wildlife Haven
Discover Bunhill Fields, a historic nonconformist burial ground blending rich heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of London.
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground in London is a historic cemetery dating back to 1665, known for its role as a resting place for notable nonconformists like William Blake, Daniel Defoe, and John Bunyan. With over 123,000 estimated burials and more than 2,000 monuments, it offers a tranquil atmosphere blending rich history with ecological conservation, maintained as a public garden and nature reserve.
A brief summary to Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
- 38 City Rd, London, EC1Y 2BG, GB
- +442073744127
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more reflective experience.
- Join a guided tour to access the enclosed historic sections and learn about notable burials.
- Wear sturdy shoes as gravel paths and uneven ground can be challenging for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the benches and lawns in the public garden areas.
- Look for the memorials of William Blake, Daniel Defoe, and John Bunyan along the main paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Old Street or Moorgate stations, each about a 10-15 minute walk to Bunhill Fields. Multiple bus routes serve City Road nearby. Tickets range from £2.50 to £5 depending on zones and time.
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Cycling
Use Santander Cycle hire stations at Old Street or nearby City Road for a scenic 5-10 minute ride. Cycle parking is available near the entrances.
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Walking
From central London locations such as the Barbican or Shoreditch, expect a 20-30 minute walk over mostly flat, paved urban terrain. Suitable for most fitness levels but note some gravel paths inside the burial ground.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8-£15. Drop-off is possible at City Road or Bunhill Row entrances.
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
A Storied Sanctuary for Nonconformists
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, established in 1665, was created as a nonconformist burial site outside the City of London's walls. It served as a vital alternative to Anglican churchyards, providing a place for those who dissented from the Church of England to be laid to rest. Over approximately 123,000 interments took place here until its closure in 1854, including many prominent figures such as poet William Blake, writer Daniel Defoe, and preacher John Bunyan. The burial ground was never consecrated by the Church of England, emphasizing its role as a refuge for religious minorities and radicals.Landscape and Memorials: A Glimpse into London's Past
The site contains over 2,000 surviving monuments, many clustered in distinct blocks, offering visitors a tangible connection to London's social and religious history. The burial ground’s name likely derives from "Bone Hill," referencing its earlier use as a dumping ground for bones from St. Paul’s Cathedral’s charnel house in the 16th century. Despite Victorian-era clearances, many gravestones and chest tombs remain, some with legible inscriptions and intricate relief carvings, providing insight into the lives and beliefs of those interred.Ecological Significance and Community Stewardship
Today, Bunhill Fields is not only a historic site but also a designated Site of Borough Importance for Nature Conservation. Volunteers and the Friends of City Gardens maintain the grounds, enhancing biodiversity through habitat creation for pollinators, birds, bats, and native plants. The burial ground functions as a peaceful urban green space, with shaded benches and lawns inviting quiet reflection and picnics, blending cultural heritage with ecological sustainability.Visitor Experience and Access
Visitors can explore public areas freely, including notable memorials on the main paths. Guided tours of the enclosed historic sections are available seasonally, offering deeper insight into the site's history and conservation efforts. The gravel paths may present challenges for wheelchair users and pushchairs, and dogs are welcome on leads. The burial ground is open daily with extended hours in warmer months, providing a tranquil retreat amid the bustling city.Legacy and Cultural Importance
Bunhill Fields stands as a testament to London's religious diversity and social history, commemorating dissenters, intellectuals, and cultural figures who shaped British thought. Its preservation as a Grade I listed historic park underscores its significance. The burial ground’s atmosphere—quiet, reflective, and rich with stories—makes it a unique destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a contemplative space in the heart of London.Continuing Relevance in Modern London
Managed by the City of London Corporation since 1867, Bunhill Fields continues to serve as a vital green space and cultural landmark. Its dual identity as both a historic cemetery and a wildlife garden exemplifies the evolving relationship between urban heritage and environmental stewardship, inviting visitors to appreciate the layers of history and nature intertwined within its boundaries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
