Arkley War Memorial

Arkley War Memorial is a stone Celtic cross in Arkley, a village on the northern edge of London within the London Borough of Barnet. It is a small, well-kept community memorial, and it has held national Grade II listed status since 2017.

What is Arkley War Memorial?

The cross was unveiled in July 1920 to honour Arkley residents killed in the First World War. Names and dates from the Second World War were added after 1945. The inscription remembers local men who died in 1914–1919 and 1939–1945. The design is a Celtic cross on a square plinth with a two-step base, carved with knotwork on the front face and a sword on the shaft. The IWM War Memorials Register records the material as granite.

Why is it listed?

Historic England added the memorial to the National Heritage List for England at Grade II (list entry 1443693, 20 April 2017). The listing points to its historic interest as a witness to how world events reached a small local community, and to the plain, dignified design of the cross. It also has group value with the neighbouring Church of St Peter, itself Grade II listed. Barnet Council owns the memorial and maintains it.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The memorial stands at the junction of Barnet Road and Rowley Green Road in Arkley. The nearest major Underground station is High Barnet on the Northern line, a few kilometres away, so plan on a bus or a car for the last stretch. Check current local bus timetables before you travel.

What can you see nearby?

Beyond the cross itself, look for the carved sword and knotwork and read the names on the plinth. St Peter's Church close by holds a marble tablet dating from 1919, also recorded in the IWM register. Another marble tablet, listing 161 names, is kept at Arkley Men's Club. Together they make a short, quiet walk through the village's remembrance history.

When should you visit, and how long does it take?

The memorial is in a public space, so there are no opening hours or tickets. Ten to fifteen minutes is enough, a little longer if you add the church and the surrounding streets. Daylight makes the inscription easier to read. Around 11 November, Remembrance Sunday, local people usually lay poppy wreaths here, which gives the site extra meaning.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The cross stands in the open beside a public road.

When was it unveiled?

In July 1920, to commemorate those lost in the First World War. Second World War names were added later.

What is its heritage status?

Grade II listed by Historic England since 2017.

Who looks after it?

Barnet Council owns the memorial and is responsible for its upkeep.