Arnos Vale Cemetery is a celebration of the people of Bristol and a place to appreciate the city’s spectacular nature. Modeled on the style of Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, Arnos Vale Cemetery opened in 1839 as a replacement for the city’s overcrowded and unsanitary parish graveyards. Today it’s a serene oasis that invites visitors to explore its pristine greenery, get up-close with varied wildlife and admire architectural landmarks.
Tree-lined carriage drives and walkways weave around the 45-acre (18-hectare) landscaped gardens. Over 300,000 people have been laid to rest here, among them more than 500 servicemen that fought in World War I and World War II. See the graves of influential British people such as educational reformer Mary Carpenter and James Hosken, who captained the SS Great Britain steamship on its maiden voyage. Find an imposing chhatri (Bengali-style tomb) dedicated to the religious reformer Raja Rammohan Roy.
The cemetery’s lush environment provides a natural habitat for numerous animal species. Evergreen trees, such as the Austrian pine, Himalayan cedar, horse chestnut and monkey puzzle, soar above the lawns. Spot badgers, butterflies, foxes and resident roe deer. Listen as the sweet song of finches, thrushes and warblers permeates the air in springtime.
Indoor and outdoor events take place throughout the year at the cemetery. Enjoy performances of Italian operas and Shakespearian sonnets. Join guided walks with an ecologist and photographer or learn about Victorian funeral customs and descend into a mortuary crypt on a night tour. Rotating exhibitions are held in the Spielman Centre.
Located southeast of Bristol City Center, the cemetery is a 5-minute drive from Bristol Temple Meads train station. Several public bus lines stop close to the main entrance.
Arnos Vale Cemetery is open daily. A list of upcoming events is available on the attraction’s official website. Pick up a map of the Discovery Trail, which covers the cemetery’s principal sights, at the visitor center. Some areas might be closed for memorial services, weddings and private functions.
