LONDON'S Most Interesting Cemetery

In most of the cities I visit, seeking out interesting cemeteries is a must.

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Montreal, Edinburgh, Stellenbosch, Kandy, Christchurch to Buenos Aires, to name six out of a hundred or so cemeteries I've explored. London's cemeteries, however, have eluded me, until now. I finally have the opportunity to visit Highgate, which opened in 1839 and is regarded as London's premier historic and noteworthy cemetery.

A taxi, a train, a bus and a walk, and we arrive. The organisation is impressive. There is a ten-pound cost per person to look around this 37-acre cemetery. They provide a ten-page guide. There are two separate areas and suggested walking routes. Inspiration for the cemetery is said to have come from the P {00e8}re Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. I published an article on it last year. A charity was created to take over and run this London private cemetery, which had been suffering from neglect, subsidence, overgrown trees and vandalism.