Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park: A Victorian Legacy of Nature and History
A historic Victorian cemetery transformed into a tranquil nature reserve and green sanctuary in East London’s heart.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, one of London's 'Magnificent Seven' Victorian cemeteries, opened in 1841 and closed for burials in 1966. Spanning 27 acres in East London, it is a unique blend of historic cemetery and nature reserve, featuring over 350,000 burials and 47,000 monuments. Now a tranquil woodland park, it offers rich heritage, diverse wildlife, and peaceful green space accessible 24/7 with paths suitable for all visitors.
A brief summary to Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
- Southern Grove, London, E3 4PX, GB
- +442039828670
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in spring or summer to experience the wildflower meadows and active birdlife at their peak.
- Access the park 24/7 via pedestrian gates on Hamlets Way and Cantrell Road for flexible visiting hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for woodland paths, which are well surfaced but may be uneven in places.
- Respect the site’s dual role as a place of remembrance and a nature reserve by keeping noise low and dogs on leads.
- Check the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park website for guided walks and community events during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Reach Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park by London Underground via Mile End station (approximately 5 minutes’ walk) or Bow Road station (about 7 minutes’ walk). Multiple bus routes serve the area, with travel times from central London typically between 20 and 40 minutes. Both tube stations and buses offer frequent service throughout the day.
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Car
Limited on-street parking is available near Southern Grove, free on weekends. On-site parking within the park requires advance booking via the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park. Note that the main vehicle gate is usually open from dawn until dusk, and parking availability is limited.
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Walking and Cycling
The park is accessible 24/7 through pedestrian and cycle-friendly gates on Hamlets Way and Cantrell Road, featuring metal kissing gates that allow pushchairs, wheelchairs, and bikes but exclude motorbikes. Paths are surfaced with recycled materials, suitable for all abilities and weather conditions.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park 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 Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
Origins and Victorian Heritage
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park was established in 1841 as The City of London and Tower Hamlets Cemetery, part of the 'Magnificent Seven' cemeteries created to address overcrowding and health concerns in London’s churchyards. The site was designed as a garden cemetery, combining landscaped grounds with funerary monuments, under architects Thomas Wyatt and David Brandon. Originally, it featured an Anglican chapel, a Byzantine-style dissenters’ chapel, a mortuary, and a lodge, though these buildings were later demolished. The cemetery was consecrated by Bishop Charles James Blomfield and opened for burials on the same day. It served as a burial ground for over 350,000 people, including notable local figures and ordinary East Londoners, until its closure in 1966.Transition from Cemetery to Nature Reserve
After closing to burials, the site was acquired by the Greater London Council and later managed by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Over time, the cemetery fell into disrepair and became overgrown, but efforts by the Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park since 1990 have transformed it into a thriving nature reserve. The park now features woodlands, wildflower meadows, and habitats for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, making it a rare urban green space. The historic Grade II listed boundary wall remains as a testament to its past.Historical Significance and Memorials
The park holds a wealth of historical significance, reflecting East London’s social history and commemorating events such as the tragic Bethnal Green Underground Station disaster of 1943. Memorials include those for philanthropist Thomas Barnardo’s children and social reformer Clara Grant. The site provides insight into Victorian funerary practices and the lives of the local community over 125 years. It remains a place of remembrance and research for family historians and local historians alike.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is open 24 hours daily, with main vehicle access on Southern Grove generally available from dawn until dusk. Pedestrian, cycle, and wheelchair-accessible gates on Hamlets Way and Cantrell Road remain open around the clock. The park’s paths are surfaced with recycled materials, ensuring year-round accessibility for walkers, runners, pushchairs, and wheelchair users. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, picnicking, and quiet reflection in this peaceful urban sanctuary.Community Engagement and Events
The Friends of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park actively engage the community through conservation projects, educational workshops, guided walks, and cultural events. They also support local heritage research and maintain the park’s ecological and historical integrity. The park is a valued venue for forest schools, festivals, and nature studies, fostering a connection between people, history, and the environment.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Sanctuary
As a designated nature reserve, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna uncommon in London. Visitors may spot green woodpeckers, sparrowhawks, and a variety of wildflowers that bloom with the seasons. The woodland atmosphere, combined with the solemnity of the gravestones, creates a unique space of transformation where nature and history coexist, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of East London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
2.0 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Execution Dock
2.4 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
3.0 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
3.0 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
3.1 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Brick Lane Mosque
3.1 km
A 280-year architectural chronicle of immigrant faith, where Huguenots, Jews, and Bangladeshis have each found spiritual sanctuary.
Execution Dock House
3.2 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
National Trust - Sutton House and Breaker's Yard
3.2 km
Discover the enchanting Sutton House and Breaker's Yard, a historical jewel in London offering a glimpse into Tudor life and vibrant cultural events.
Christ Church Spitalfields
3.3 km
Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant history of Christ Church Spitalfields, an iconic Anglican church in the heart of London.
Arnold Circus
3.3 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
North Greenwich Pier
3.4 km
Modern Thames gateway where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture and entertainment.
Shoreditch Church
3.5 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
City Hall
3.5 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
Shoreditch
3.5 km
East London's creative epicenter where street art, independent culture, and culinary innovation define urban cool.
Northumbria University - London
3.6 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Bow Bells
0.7 km
Historic East End pub with over 150 years of Cockney spirit, lively sports, and a warm, authentic atmosphere on Bow Road.
Ragged School Museum
0.8 km
Explore Victorian East End life and the pioneering free education movement at London’s Ragged School Museum, housed in historic canal warehouses.
Mile End Park
0.9 km
A vibrant 32-hectare linear park blending nature, art, and sport along Regent’s Canal in East London.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
1.3 km
Explore the historic St Anne's Church in Limehouse, a serene Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of London.
Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island
1.5 km
Historic tidal mills meet tranquil riverside green space in East London’s unique Three Mills Island and Green.
ABBA Arena
1.5 km
Experience ABBA like never before in London’s groundbreaking ABBA Arena, where music meets cutting-edge digital spectacle.
Victoria Park
1.7 km
London’s largest historic park offering scenic lakes, vibrant community events, and year-round green space in the heart of the East End.
London Museum Docklands
1.7 km
Step into 400 years of London’s maritime history in a stunning riverside warehouse with interactive exhibits and free entry daily.
West India Quay
1.8 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
Ratcliff Beach
1.8 km
Discover Ratcliff Beach, a hidden pebble shore on the Thames with stunning Canary Wharf views and rich maritime history in East London.
High St
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London’s retail heritage where history, culture, and shopping converge on High Street.
London Stadium
1.9 km
Experience the iconic London Stadium, home to West Ham United and a legacy of Olympic glory, sports, and world-class entertainment.
ArcelorMittal Orbit
2.0 km
Experience London’s tallest sculpture, panoramic Olympic Park views, and the world’s longest tunnel slide all in one iconic landmark.
Canary Wharf
2.0 km
A striking blend of towering skyscrapers, rich history, and vibrant urban life at London’s premier financial district on the Isle of Dogs.
Young V&A
2.0 km
A vibrant, free museum in East London where children and families ignite creativity through play, design, and imagination.
Essential places to dine
Da Terra Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Behind Restaurant
2.8 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Brawn
3.0 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Hackney Church Brew Co.
3.2 km
A vibrant brewery and taproom in Hackney Central blending craft beers, open-flame cooking, and a welcoming community spirit.
Lyle's
3.4 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
3.4 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
3.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
3.6 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
The Clove Club
3.6 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
3.7 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
La Dame de Pic London
3.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
3.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Restaurant Story
4.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Cutty Sark
4.5 km
Discover Cutty Sark: A traditional London pub with a cozy atmosphere and delightful beer garden offering classic British cuisine.
Midpoint Restaurant
4.5 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
2.8 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
3.1 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Truman Brewery Markets
3.2 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
DPUS Designer Outlet
3.2 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Fashion St
3.2 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Sclater Street Market
3.3 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Commercial St
3.3 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Luna & Curious
3.4 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Spitalfields Market
3.4 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Triangle Store
3.4 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
Petticoat Lane Market
3.5 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
3.5 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
3.8 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
Traders Gate
3.9 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Tower of London Shop
3.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Satan's Whiskers
2.1 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Sun Tavern
2.2 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.9 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.0 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
3.0 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
3.1 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
BrewDog Shoreditch
3.1 km
Craft beer haven in Shoreditch blending bold brews, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming beer garden in the heart of East London.
All Bar One Greenwich
3.2 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
3.2 km
Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
3.4 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
Discount Suit Company
3.4 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Bell
3.4 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Behind This Wall
3.5 km
Discover Hackney’s cozy basement bar with bespoke cocktails, vintage sounds, and an intimate atmosphere that invites you to savor every sip.
TT
3.6 km
Innovative wood-fired Mediterranean small plates and cocktails in a stylish Shoreditch venue with a vibrant rooftop terrace.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
3.6 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
