Putney Vale Cemetery

Putney Vale Cemetery is a cemetery and crematorium in south-west London, in the district of Putney Vale. It sits within about 47 acres (19 ha) of parkland, surrounded by Putney Heath, Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park. For a visitor it is both a quiet green retreat and an unusual gallery of London lives: sportspeople, scientists, artists and musicians all rest here.

When did Putney Vale Cemetery open?

The cemetery opened in 1891 and the crematorium followed in 1938. The land had previously belonged to Newlands Farm, a holding established back in the medieval period. Today the site is a broad park of paths, mature trees and monuments from many eras.

What were its early days like?

The first burial was that of Margaret Bell. The start was turbulent: during the consecration ceremony, rifle practice by local volunteer corps nearby caused panic, and some guests sheltered under umbrellas. In 1894 a gravedigger, John Ingram, was killed by a stray bullet from the rifle range on Wimbledon Common. The Burial Board later brought a lawsuit against the commanding officers of the volunteer regiments.

Who is buried here?

The cemetery is known for the names you can find among its graves:

• Howard Carter – the archaeologist who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun.
• James Hunt – British racing driver.
• Jacob Epstein – sculptor, buried here in 1959.
• Eugen Sandow – bodybuilder and pioneer of physical culture.
• Sandy Denny – folk singer.
• Arthur Askey – comedian.
• Bruce Ismay – chairman of the White Star Line, the company that operated the Titanic. The Ismay family tomb, dating from 1937, features semi-abstract scenes of shipping.

Six recipients of the Victoria Cross, Britain's highest award for gallantry, have also been buried or cremated here.

War graves

The cemetery holds 87 Commonwealth burials from the First World War and 97 from the Second World War. They are cared for by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and make a fitting place for a moment of reflection.

Who is it for?

• History and biography lovers who enjoy tracking down the graves of famous figures.
• Fans of funerary architecture and twentieth-century sculpture.
• Anyone looking for quiet in the green surroundings of Putney Heath and Wimbledon Common.
• Those interested in the Titanic story, Egyptology, motorsport or British folk music.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Putney Vale Cemetery? In south-west London, in Putney Vale, between Putney Heath, Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park.

How big is it? About 47 acres, or 19 hectares, of parkland.

When did it open? The cemetery opened in 1891, the crematorium in 1938.

Are any famous people buried here? Yes, including Howard Carter, James Hunt, Jacob Epstein, Eugen Sandow and Sandy Denny.

Is it still in use? Yes, the crematorium operates too, so visitors should stay quiet and respectful around mourners.

A walk through Putney Vale usually takes an hour or two. It combines well with a trip to nearby Wimbledon Common or Richmond Park, which surround the cemetery on several sides and offer long walking routes.