Lerwick New Cemetery

Lerwick New Cemetery is a hillside cemetery in Lerwick, the main town of the Shetland Islands in Scotland. It sits on the Knab headland above the harbour, at the junction of Knab Road and Gressey Loan. For many visitors it is a quiet place for reflection and, incidentally, a good viewpoint over the town. The older section is also known as the Knab Burial Ground.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The cemetery stands on the Knab, just above Lerwick's historic Old Port. From Sumburgh Airport, drive the A970 to Lerwick, roughly 35 miles. Once in town, follow the signs for the Old Port. At the top of the hill that drops down towards the harbour, turn sharp right into Knab Road. The cemetery is at the junction of Knab Road and Gressey Loan. From the town centre it is also an easy walk along the waterfront and through the old streets.

What is the history of the site?

Historic Environment Scotland classes it as a 19th-century cemetery. Its older part is known as the Knab Burial Ground. The headstones reflect a community shaped by the sea: fishermen, sailors and townspeople. Visitors describe rows of 19th-century graves followed directly by those of Second World War sailors.

War graves

The cemetery is cared for by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC). It holds casualties of both world wars. The CWGC lists 117 identified casualties, including burials from 1914-18 and 1939-45, plus 3 Norwegian war burials. Sources differ slightly on the counts: one lists 42 First World War and 74 Second World War burials, another 41 and 73.

The best-known burial is Flight Lieutenant David Ernest Hornell VC of 162 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force, who died on 24 June 1944 aged 34.

Is it worth a stop?

Reviewers praise the view from the Knab and note how well maintained the grounds are. It suits a short visit combined with a look over the harbour and Bressay Sound. The usual courtesies apply: keep quiet, stay on the paths and be considerate when taking photographs.

For family historians

Find a Grave holds around 3,200 memorial records for this cemetery, which makes it a useful stop for anyone tracing Shetland ancestors.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No fee is documented; it is an active public cemetery.

Are there war graves? Yes, from both world wars, including three Norwegian burials.

Who is buried here? Lerwick residents, sailors, servicemen and airman David Hornell, a Victoria Cross recipient.

How long should I allow? Usually 20 to 40 minutes, especially when combined with a walk around Lerwick.

How do I get there? On foot from the town centre towards the Old Port and then Knab Road. By car from Sumburgh Airport via the A970.

In short

Lerwick New Cemetery is a small, well-kept place of remembrance with a view over the harbour. It combines 19th-century local history, war graves and a calm atmosphere, so it fits well into a visit for anyone who wants to know Lerwick beyond its waterfront and shops. Go during the day in decent weather, as the hillside can be windy, like most places in Shetland.