Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance in London: photos, reviews

About

Crossbones Graveyard & Garden Of Remembrance offers a poignant journey into London's past, serving as a medieval paupers' burial ground where approximately 15,000 individuals, including the infamous Winchester Geese, were laid to rest. This unique garden combines historical reverence with a tranquil sanctuary, featuring an iron memorial shrine gate adorned with ribbons and informative plaques that tell the somber tales of those buried here. With visiting hours limited to mid-week afternoons, it presents a brief yet meaningful stop where you can reflect on history's forgotten souls. Rated highly for its serene yet sobering ambiance, it stands as a testament to society's historical outcasts, maintained lovingly by volunteers. Pets are welcome, making it a peaceful, contemplative spot to visit briefly, offering an experience both beautiful and thought-provoking.

Recommended visit time

to 1 hour

Features

Pets allowed, Wheelchair accessible entrance

4.6

based on 312 reviews

Google

4.6/5 305 reviews

Facebook

5/5 7 reviews

Natalia Luka

Beautiful experience of a forgotten part of London’s history. Lovely ramshackle garden run by volunteers and touching on the tragedy (and joy) of the poor of London. It’s a quick visit (5 minutes) and well worth it

Keith Hainge

The first thing that you need to know if you wish to visit is that Crossbones is currently open to the public between 12 - 2 pm on Wed , Thurs. & Fridays. The entrance is on Union St . Underneath Crossbones some 15,000 bodies lie at rest. Originally this area fell in the Liberty of The Clink , an area outside the jurisdiction of The City of London & therefore a magnet for brothels , bull & bear baiting , cock fighting. Being unconsecrated ground , prostitutes were buried here & then paupers until the site became full by the mid 19th c . The prostitutes , known as Winchester Geese , were licensed by the Bishops of Winchester to work the area . This is reflected in the curved & roofed walkway at Crossbones entrance fashioned in wood to represent a Goose wing. In addition to this , Once a year the clergy of nearby Southwark Cathedral perform a walk of regret to Crossbones to honour these women . Crossbones is lovingly cared for by dedicated volunteers & has become a place of contemplation , sanctuary & vigil for those who may be considered outcasts by so called normal society. The volunteers are very well informed & have interesting tales to tell.

Alvaro Latorre Centelles

Es un cementerio en memoria de las personas desaparecidas. Es el vestido de un cementerio de gente sin poder adquisitivo descubierto cuando hacían las obras del metro. Está coordinado con voluntarios. No está siempre abierto.

What is the address of Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance?
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance is located at Union St, SE1 1TA, London, United Kingdom.
How to get here by public transport?
The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Southwark Street / Southwark Bridge Road (Stop BV) (140 m walk)
- Bus stop Southwark Street (Stop BD) (166 m walk)
- Bus stop Union Street (Stop G) (136 m walk)
- Bus stop Great Guildford Street (Stop BM) (245 m walk)
How is Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance rated by visitors?
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance has an average rating of 4.6 based on 312 reviews across platforms such as Google, Facebook.
How long should visitors plan to stay at the venue?
Most visitors complete their visit within about 1 hour.
Is the venue pet-friendly?
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance is a pet-friendly venue where guests can bring their animals.

Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance in London

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