Jesmond Old Cemetery

Jesmond Old Cemetery is a Victorian cemetery in Newcastle upon Tyne, in north-east England. Its story begins in 1834, and today it is one of the most atmospheric heritage sites in Jesmond: a quiet corner of the city where a walk doubles as a lesson in Tyneside history.

How did the cemetery come about?

In 1834 the Newcastle General Cemetery Company was formed, aiming to create a modern burial ground for a rapidly growing town. It turned to John Dobson, one of the leading architects of northern England. Work began in 1835 and the first burials took place late in 1836. Dobson designed both the layout and the buildings, and he was later laid to rest here himself.

What is there to see?

Facing Jesmond Road, twin lodge buildings stand either side of an archway and gates. They served as chapels: the Anglican one on the west side, the Nonconformist one on the east. Beneath each were vaults where coffins were kept overnight. In all, the cemetery holds two Grade II listed buildings and seven Grade II listed monuments.

Among them is Dobson's own tomb, with a marble headstone and iron railings. The grounds themselves are also recognised as a registered historic park.

Who is buried here?

The cemetery contains the graves of dozens of notable figures from Tyneside's past. One is Emerson Muschamp Bainbridge, founder of the Bainbridge department store, often described as one of the earliest in the world. A naturalist from the Hancock family is also buried here, linked to the region's natural history scene. There are ten Commonwealth war graves as well: eight from the First World War and two from the Second.

How to visit

This is a place for anyone who enjoys architecture, local history and quiet. Wander the paths slowly, look for ornate headstones, and take time over the chapels. Since 2008 the grounds have had the support of the Friends of Jesmond Old Cemetery, a volunteer group that helps protect the site and share its story with visitors.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed Jesmond Old Cemetery? John Dobson, the celebrated Newcastle architect, who is buried in the same cemetery.

When was it founded? The founding company was formed in 1834, and burials began in 1836.

Is the cemetery listed? Yes. Two buildings and seven monuments are Grade II listed, and the grounds are a registered historic park.

Are there war graves? Yes, ten Commonwealth service graves from the two world wars.

Why visit? For Dobson's architecture, the city's history and the calm Victorian atmosphere in the middle of Newcastle.