Highgate Cemetery
About
Highgate Cemetery, perched on a steep wooded hill in North London, is a Victorian burial ground steeped in history and beauty. Its soaring Gothic tombs, winding paths, and ivy‑clad monuments create an atmosphere of quiet reverence, while the surrounding wildlife and mature trees add a touch of natural charm. Visitors often spend several hours wandering the grounds, discovering hidden treasures and observing the remarkable craftsmanship of over 170,000 interments. To help guests make the most of their visit, the cemetery offers a range of guided experiences. Private group tours begin at £18 per adult, £9 for children aged 8–17 and £9.50 for eligible students, and can be booked by completing an online form. Group visits (10 or more people) also keep the entrance fee low (£10 per adult, £5 for children, £8 for students) and are a popular option for schools and community organisations. All visitors are required to purchase an admission ticket; the standard adult ticket costs £10, with a reduced rate for children and students. Highgate’s heritage designation brings a wealth of notable graves – including those of Karl Marx, George Eliot and Charles Dickens – as well as architecturally significant monuments such as the Egyptian Avenue, the Circle of Lebanon and the War Graves Cross of Sacrifice. The cemetery’s chapel, which is free to visit, features a stunning timber roof and a wall of prayers. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (March–October) and 10 am to 4 pm (November–February), Highgate welcomes visitors with free Wi‑Fi, accessible toilets, and a café in the West side courtyard. The cemetery is also committed to accessibility, with dedicated routes for wheelchair users and a blue badge parking scheme available upon request. Visitors are encouraged to plan their route, bring a reusable water bottle, and observe all rules of conduct to preserve this unique, living memorial. **Please note:** All admission fees must be paid by card only; cash or check is not accepted. For those wishing to locate a particular grave, a separate “Grave Search” service is available for £40, which includes a detailed map, photographs, and the option to accompany a guardian on a weekday to a chosen plot.
Highlights
- Victorian Funerary Architecture
- Karl Marx’s Grave
- Egyptian Avenue
- Circle of Lebanon
- War Graves Cross of Sacrifice
- Wildlife Habitat
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring (April–June) provides soft light, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds, ideal for leisurely exploration.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours
Tickets & pricing
Adult
£10.00
Child
£5.00
Student
£8.00