Wolvercote Cemetery: Oxford’s Historic Resting Place and Tolkien’s Grave
A tranquil historic cemetery in Oxford, famed for J.R.R. Tolkien’s grave and diverse cultural heritage.
Wolvercote Cemetery, located on Banbury Road in Oxford, is a serene and historic burial ground known for its diverse religious sections and as the final resting place of famed author J.R.R. Tolkien and his wife Edith. Opened in 1889, it contains over 15,000 burials, including notable academics and war graves, and remains an active cemetery with a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and remembrance.
A brief summary to Wolvercote Cemetery
- A4165 Banbury Rd, Oxford, Wolvercote, OX2 8EE, GB
- +441865252516
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Respect the cemetery’s active use by visitors mourning loved ones; maintain quiet and decorum.
- Visit Tolkien’s grave in the Roman Catholic section, identifiable by the Beren and Lúthien inscription.
- Explore the diverse religious sections to appreciate Oxford’s cultural and historical richness.
- Use the main entrance on Banbury Road; limited parking and public restrooms are available on site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus routes 7 or S3 from Oxford city center to Banbury Road near Wolvercote. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for weekends. From the bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the cemetery entrance.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Oxford to Wolvercote Cemetery typically takes 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers direct and convenient access, especially if carrying flowers or for visitors with mobility needs. Expect fares around £10-£15.
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Car
Driving to Wolvercote Cemetery is straightforward via Banbury Road (A4165). Limited parking is available onsite but can fill during busy periods. The cemetery is accessible year-round, but be mindful of local traffic and parking restrictions.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, the cemetery is about a 50-minute walk from Oxford city center along Banbury Road. The route is mostly flat and paved, suitable for most walkers, but not recommended for those with limited mobility or in poor weather.
Wolvercote 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 Wolvercote Cemetery
A Storied Cemetery with Deep Roots in Oxford
Wolvercote Cemetery has served the Oxford community since its opening in 1889, providing a tranquil resting place on the outskirts of the city. Spanning a large area along Banbury Road, it has grown to encompass more than 15,000 burials. The cemetery is thoughtfully divided into various sections catering to different religious and cultural groups, including Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Orthodox Christian, Quaker, and Baháʼí communities. This diversity reflects Oxford’s rich cultural tapestry and the cemetery’s role as a respectful and inclusive space for all.The Final Resting Place of J.R.R. Tolkien and Other Luminaries
Wolvercote Cemetery is internationally renowned as the burial site of J.R.R. Tolkien, the celebrated author of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, alongside his wife Edith. Their grave lies in the Roman Catholic section, marked by the inscription of Beren and Lúthien—characters from Tolkien’s mythology symbolizing their enduring love. The grave attracts visitors worldwide who leave flowers, notes, and tokens in homage. Beyond Tolkien, the cemetery is home to many notable figures, including distinguished Oxford academics, authors, and public servants, making it a place rich in local history and heritage.A Peaceful and Reflective Environment Amidst Urban Life
Despite its proximity to busy roads and the city center, Wolvercote Cemetery offers a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle. The grounds are carefully maintained, with verdant greenery and quiet pathways encouraging reflection and remembrance. The cemetery also features a chapel used for funeral services, public restrooms, and limited parking. It continues to function as an active burial site, with recent interments alongside historic graves, underscoring its ongoing role in the community.Commemorating Diverse Faiths and Histories
The cemetery’s sections for different faiths are not only functional but also culturally significant. The Jewish section, established in 1894, is well-kept and has been part of important reburial ceremonies. The Muslim, Orthodox Christian, and Roman Catholic areas highlight the cemetery’s respect for varied burial traditions. Additionally, there are designated areas for cremated remains, green burials, and infant burials, reflecting evolving practices and sensitivities around death and remembrance.War Graves and Historical Significance
Wolvercote Cemetery also holds the war graves of 44 Commonwealth service personnel from both World Wars, serving as a solemn reminder of Oxfordshire’s contributions and sacrifices during times of conflict. These graves are maintained with dignity and form part of the cemetery’s historical narrative, connecting visitors to broader national and international histories.Visitor Experience and Cultural Importance
Visitors to Wolvercote Cemetery often come to pay respects to Tolkien but find themselves immersed in a site of quiet beauty and historical depth. The cemetery’s signage helps guide visitors respectfully, mindful that it remains a place for mourning as well as remembrance. Its blend of cultural heritage, notable burials, and peaceful environment makes it a meaningful destination for those interested in literature, history, and local tradition.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
2.5 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Martyrs' Memorial
4.2 km
A towering Gothic Revival monument in Oxford honoring three Reformation martyrs who stood firm in faith during religious upheaval.
Oxford Magic Walking tours
4.3 km
Explore Oxford's hidden gems and rich history with expert-led Magic Walking Tours, revealing the city's enchanting past and vibrant present.
Visit Oxford Tours
4.4 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Oxford with expert-guided tours for an unforgettable experience.
Clarendon Building
4.4 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Oxford Tours UK
4.4 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and literary heritage through personalized, expert-led walking tours in the city’s vibrant heart.
Bridge of Sighs
4.4 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
4.4 km
Uncover the hidden gems of Oxford with Ecclesia Walking Tours, where history and culture converge in a captivating exploration of this iconic city.
IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
4.5 km
Discover cutting-edge science and creative ideas at Oxford’s vibrant annual festival blending research, arts, and community engagement.
Brasenose College
4.5 km
Historic Oxford college founded in 1509, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and prestigious academic tradition.
The painted room
4.5 km
Explore The Painted Room in Oxford, a historical museum showcasing exquisite frescoes and captivating artistry that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.
Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
4.6 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and authentic memorabilia at the Oxford Experience, your ultimate shopping destination in this historic city.
City Sightseeing Oxford
4.7 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture with City Sightseeing Oxford’s immersive bus tours for an unforgettable travel experience.
Great Jewry Marker
4.7 km
Commemorating Oxford’s medieval Jewish quarter on historic St Aldate’s, a testament to a vibrant community’s enduring legacy.
Oriel College
4.7 km
Explore Oriel College, a historical gem in Oxford, and immerse yourself in centuries of academic excellence and stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
1.1 km
A sprawling green haven in Oxford with playgrounds, sports courts, a splash park, and a charming miniature railway for all ages.
The Trout Inn
2.2 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Oxford offering seasonal British dishes, scenic terrace, and a charming garden with a roaming peacock.
Godstow Abbey
2.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Godstow Abbey, a serene medieval nunnery steeped in royal history and riverside beauty near Oxford.
Port Meadow
2.4 km
Historic riverside commonland near Oxford city centre, perfect for wildlife, walking, and open-air relaxation.
Trap Grounds
2.4 km
A tranquil urban nature reserve in Oxford, offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful green space along the historic Oxford Canal.
Rose & Crown PH
3.1 km
A charming Victorian pub in Oxford offering traditional ales, hearty fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere with live jazz.
North Parade Market
3.1 km
A vibrant, artisan street market in North Oxford offering local organic produce, crafts, and lively community spirit every second and fourth Saturday.
Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford
3.3 km
Historic Oxford college blending rich heritage, scenic riverside gardens, and a vibrant academic community.
University Parks
3.6 km
A historic and scenic green oasis in Oxford offering sports, riverside walks, rare trees, and tranquil spaces for all to enjoy.
Somerville College
3.7 km
Historic Oxford college known for pioneering women’s education, beautiful architecture, and vibrant academic life.
Keble College
3.8 km
Explore Keble College’s stunning Victorian-Gothic architecture, serene quads, and vibrant academic life in the heart of Oxford.
Wellington Square
3.9 km
A tranquil Georgian garden square in Oxford blending rich history, elegant architecture, and serene academic ambiance.
Pitt Rivers Museum
3.9 km
Explore Oxford’s captivating Pitt Rivers Museum, home to vast global collections displayed in a unique Victorian setting with free entry.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
3.9 km
Explore Earth's natural wonders in a breathtaking neo-Gothic museum, home to iconic dinosaurs, rare fossils, and vibrant live exhibits in Oxford.
Lamb and Flag
4.0 km
Historic Oxford pub cherished by literary legends Tolkien and Lewis, blending centuries-old charm with vibrant community spirit.
Essential places to dine
Pompette
1.6 km
Experience authentic French flavors and warm hospitality in Oxford’s charming Summertown at Pompette, a refined brasserie with seasonal delights.
The Oxford Kitchen
1.8 km
Michelin-starred British fine dining in Oxford’s Summertown, blending seasonal ingredients with elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
2.8 km
Historic riverside dining in Oxford offering modern British cuisine, award-winning wines, and scenic boat hire in a charming Victorian boathouse.
The Perch
3.1 km
A charming thatched pub by Oxford’s Port Meadow, blending historic ambiance with hearty British fare and riverside tranquility.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
3.1 km
Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
3.2 km
A Mediterranean culinary retreat in a stunning Victorian glasshouse, blending seasonal dishes with elegant charm in Oxford’s Park Town.
Brasserie Blanc
3.5 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets vibrant Oxford dining in Jericho’s warm and inviting Brasserie Blanc.
Branca Bar, Restaurant and Deli
3.5 km
A lively Mediterranean gastropub and deli in Oxford’s Jericho, serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and fresh seasonal dishes in a stylish, family-friendly setting.
The Standard
3.5 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at The Standard in Oxford – a delightful blend of tradition and flavor awaits every visitor.
Parsonage Grill
3.7 km
Sophisticated British dining in Oxford with art-filled ambiance, impeccable service, and a charming garden terrace for all-day enjoyment.
The Old Bookbinders Ale House
3.7 km
A charming Oxford pub blending traditional ales with authentic French bistro fare in Jericho’s quirky heart.
Browns Oxford
3.8 km
A stylish Oxford brasserie blending French bistro charm with classic British fare and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Pierre Victoire
3.8 km
Authentic French bistro in Oxford since 1996, offering classic cuisine, prix fixe menus, and a warm, intimate atmosphere with excellent value.
Wilding Oxford - Wine Dine Shop
3.8 km
A vibrant Oxford wine bar and restaurant blending inventive small plates with a unique, expertly curated wine selection.
Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
4.1 km
Stylish rooftop dining atop Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum with panoramic city views and modern British cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
1.8 km
Authentic French artisan patisserie in Oxford’s Summertown, crafting exquisite pastries, breads, and bespoke cakes with premium ingredients.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
4.3 km
Discover quirky Danish design and colorful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Oxford’s lively variety store on Magdalen Street.
Bodleian Weston Library Shop
4.3 km
Explore exclusive literary gifts and scholarly treasures at the Bodleian Weston Library Shop in Oxford’s iconic Weston Library.
The Shop of Secrets
4.3 km
Discover magical collectibles and Harry Potter treasures in a warm, inviting Oxford shop with a personal touch.
Watsons of Oxford
4.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
Broad Canvas
4.4 km
Oxford’s trusted art and craft supply store since 1981, offering expert advice and quality materials for artists and creatives.
Oxford Gifts & Candyland
4.4 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
Cool Britannia
4.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and unique gifts in the heart of Oxford at Cool Britannia, your go-to shop for memorable memorabilia and more.
Rainbow and Spoon Boutique - Ladies Fashion in Oxford
4.4 km
Discover Oxford’s beloved independent boutique offering ethically sourced, unique women’s fashion with a personal touch and timeless style.
The Crafters Emporium
4.4 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
4.4 km
Discover exclusive scholarly gifts and rare books in the historic heart of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries.
The Oxford Gift Shop
4.4 km
Discover unique Oxford souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the city at The Oxford Gift Shop, open daily with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Objects of Use
4.5 km
Discover beautifully crafted, sustainable household tools and unique gifts at Objects of Use, Oxford’s modern hardware store with a global soul.
Space Store Oxford
4.5 km
Explore authentic space merchandise and immersive VR experiences in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Space Store Oxford.
Crystal Spirit Emporium
4.5 km
Discover unique crystals, minerals, and artisanal gifts in Oxford’s historic Covered Market at Crystal Spirit Emporium.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rickety Press
3.6 km
A lively Jericho pub blending funky vibes, quality pizzas, inventive burgers, and a welcoming community spirit in the heart of Oxford.
Jude The Obscure
3.6 km
A literary-inspired British pub in Oxford’s Jericho with award-winning food, lively sports viewing, and a dog-friendly heated beer garden.
The Duke Of Cambridge
3.8 km
A stylish Oxford cocktail bar blending traditional pub charm with expert mixology and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
3.8 km
Experience Oxford’s best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at LJ - Love Jericho, where expert mixology meets a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
King's Arms, Oxford
4.3 km
Oxford’s oldest pub since 1607, famed for its literary heritage, academic ties, and ghostly whispers in a historic setting.
OXO BAR
4.3 km
A stylish and lively cocktail bar in Oxford’s heart, known for expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
White Horse
4.3 km
A classic Oxford pub on Broad Street offering cozy charm, well-kept ales, and a taste of local history and culture.
The Grapes
4.4 km
A classic Oxford pub renowned for award-winning ales, hearty food, and warm, friendly hospitality in a historic city-center setting.
Thirst Bar
4.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Oxford with expert bartenders, heated outdoor terrace, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
The Lighthouse
4.4 km
A stylish riverside cocktail bar and tapas restaurant blending classic charm with modern flair in the heart of Oxford.
The Three Goats Heads Pub
4.4 km
A historic Oxford pub offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a relaxed, phone-free atmosphere in a charming Victorian setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
4.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant set within historic Oxford Castle, offering stylish drinks, global cuisine, and lively brunches in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
Cow & Creek
4.5 km
A vibrant Oxford pub blending funky neon vibes with hearty burgers, local brews, and a lively social scene for day and night enjoyment.
The Varsity Club
4.5 km
Experience Oxford’s best rooftop views and vibrant nightlife at The Varsity Club, a stylish multi-floor venue blending cocktails, music, and cityscape charm.
Hanks Bar
4.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Hanks Bar, where classic American style meets energetic dance floors and expertly crafted cocktails.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Mindfulness
- 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
